How to get planning permission for a self-build house?

Posted by & filed under Advice and tips, Extensions, planning applications, Self-Build.

Self-building is becoming increasingly popular in the UK. Government incentives such as the Help to Build Loan have been recently introduced, to make the self-build process easier and more affordable, with an aim help to ease the affordable homes shortage in the UK.   Design above by Edward, architect from Nottingham, East Midlands. Click here… Read more »

Black steel framed doors and windows – ideas for your home extension

Posted by & filed under Design for Me Loves..., Extensions, Inspiration.

Move over PVC bi-fold doors, it’s all about stylish, black steel framed doors and windows! The traditional variety are generally known to be thermally inefficient and expensive. However, there are many new companies on the market, whose products can be much more thermally efficient and cost effective, and we’ve listed some below to get you started. How much do steel doors and… Read more »

Architect AND interior designer – do I need both?

Posted by & filed under Cost Planning, Designers, Interiors, Renovations.

This is a source of confusion for many clients. Generally speaking, an architect will design the external shell of the building (walls, roof, windows, etc) and an interior designer would design and specify the interior decoration, furniture and fittings. The work that sits in between – space planning of rooms, finishes and fixtures – could… Read more »

Getting Your Home Ready for Autumn

Posted by & filed under Inspiration, Interiors.

As the summer starts to fade, it’s time to savour the sound of leaves crunching under your feet, pull on your comfiest jumper and settle down with a pumpkin spice coffee. The autumn aesthetic is one of cosiness and relaxation, and you’ll want to bring it to the fore as much as possible in your… Read more »

Hallway design ideas and inspiration

Posted by & filed under Inspiration, Interiors.

Title image – design by Peter, architect from Islington, London. Click here to see more and shortlist them for your home project.   Hallway design ideas – from Design for Me’s architects and designers Here are some of the best hallway designs from our architects and designers on Design for Me. Click on the images… Read more »

How Much Does a House Extension Cost?

Posted by & filed under Cost Planning, Extensions.

“How much does a house extension cost?” is one of the most common questions we get asked, so we’ve decided to dedicate an entire post to it! While it’s not an easy question to answer because it depends on several factors, you’re probably looking for a rough figure or general guideline to get started. So,… Read more »

A guide to listed building consent

Posted by & filed under Advice and tips, Legal Considerations, Renovations.

What is Listed Building Consent?  Listed building consent is s a form of planning regulation aimed at safeguarding structures with remarkable architectural or historical value. These protective measures complement the standard planning regulations in place. Moreover, listed building designation can trigger the need for planning permission in situations where it would not typically be mandated—such… Read more »

10 of the best architects for small / home projects

Posted by & filed under Designers, Extensions, Inspiration, Using Design for Me, Your Designer.

We’ve rounded up some of the best architects and small architecture practices across the UK, all specialising in residential projects.           1. Will – Residential architect in Brighton (click on his name above to view his full profile and shortlist his practice for your project) My name is Will, I am an… Read more »

How to create a beach-themed garden design

Posted by & filed under Gardens, Inspiration.

Have you ever fantasised about opening your back door and stepping out into your very own private beach? If this is not geographically possible, how about creating a beach-themed garden? If the thought of a ‘themed’ garden makes you cringe – I’m with you. However, you don’t have to adorn your lawn with plastic seagulls,… Read more »