Creating Eco-Friendly Homes with Solar Power

Posted by & filed under Self-Build.

Picture Credit: Canva   The adoption of solar energy in home design isn’t just a trend; it’s a necessity for sustainable living. Solar energy is a game-changer in residential construction, offering an inexhaustible, clean, and environmentally friendly power source. It reduces reliance on fossil fuels and cuts greenhouse gas emissions, making it a cornerstone of… Read more »

Residential architects in Nottingham

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

If you’re planning a house extension, renovation or new self-build, finding the right architect can be the critical first step. We’ve compiled some of the best residential architects in Nottingham to give you a starting point, and hopefully provide a little inspiration too. Nottingham is brimming with talented architects and designers, so we have no doubt… Read more »

VAT on new build houses – are they exempt?

Posted by & filed under Cost Planning, Self-Build.

This is a simple and concise guide to understanding VAT on new build houses. Please note that there is different guidance in relation to conversions, which are also, sometimes, eligible for a VAT refund.   New builds pictured are from architects on Design for Me. Click on the images to see their full profile and invite them for… Read more »

Barn conversion ideas and rural restorations

Posted by & filed under Conversions, Inspiration.

Barn conversions ideas and rural restorations – from Design for Me’s architects and designers Barn conversions and restorations are a very popular alternative to new builds, and with their inherent character and history its easy to see why. Here are some of the best barn conversion ideas from our architects and interior designers on Design… Read more »

Residential architects in Essex

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

If you’re planning a house extension, renovation or new self-build, finding the right architect can be the critical first step. We’ve compiled some of the best residential architects in Essex to give you a starting point, and hopefully provide a little inspiration too. Essex is brimming with talented architects and designers, so we have no doubt… Read more »

Advantages of using an Approved Inspector for Building Regulations approval

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

For approximately the past 15 years it’s been possible to gain Building Regulations approval using an Approved Inspector and it’s become a more popular choice for good reason…   Featured image above – extension by Tessa, architect in Hackney. See more and shortlist her for your project here. What is an Approved Inspector? By using… Read more »

How to find a freelance architect

Posted by & filed under Advice and tips, Extensions.

Why choose a freelance architect? Freelance architects are particularly suited for small domestic projects, for example: extensions, renovations and loft conversions; homeowner planning applications; sketch drawings for builder’s quotes.   Image above by Oana, Freelance architect on Design for Me. See more of her work and shortlist her for your home project here.    … Read more »

Do you need planning permission for an extension?

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

Good news – you don’t need planning permission for an extension, subject to some exceptions and rules, outlined below. Many rear extensions benefit from permitted development rights, which means that you do not need planning permission. However, you should check that your property is not exempt (see below).   Extension pictured above by Oliver, architect… Read more »