Colour influences how we feel. It is a basic design element; our moods and feelings are deeply affected by the colours we see. Therefore, selecting the right colours for your living room is a project where you need to put in some effort. Vibrant hues like red and yellow can energize and uplift your spirits…. Read more »
Posts By: Design for Me
Which type of survey do I need?
Different surveys do different jobs — some check a property’s condition, others provide valuation, and some produce the measured drawings your architect will need for design. Use this simple route-finder (with examples) to pick the right one for your situation. Quick answer Buying a modern home, low risk: HomeBuyer Report (Level 2) + Valuation… Read more »
Building regulations for a house conversion
Where a house renovation results in a ‘material change of use’, there are requirements for upgrading certain building elements and meeting standards that go beyond what is required for a typical house renovation. Thanks to Nick Paley at Assure Building Control for their assistance with this article. Assure Building Control provide a fully licenced independent… Read more »
Home Office Makeover: Designing a Productive Workspace You’ll Love
An efficient home office is essential for fostering productivity and raising general job satisfaction. As remote work becomes more popular, the value of a well-designed workspace cannot be emphasised enough. A well-organised office not only meets the particular requirements of your job but also shows your own style and enhances the good environment. Examining your… Read more »
How to Build Your Own House
A Simple Guide to Getting Started Self-build projects have been known to be expensive and intimidating, although over the last few years, building your own home has gotten a lot easier. There are over 6 million people in the UK who want to build their own home and over 1 million in progress, according to This Is Money. Now… Read more »
Can I replace or add windows without planning permission?
Planning permission is not required to replace windows if they are similar in appearance to those used in the construction of the house, unless your property is listed, in a designated area or has a relevant Article 4 Direction (see the exceptions below). Can I add new windows and doors without planning permission? Most*… Read more »
Can I apply for planning permission before I buy a property?
Short answer: yes. You don’t need to own a property to apply for planning permission. If you’re not the owner, you must notify them as part of the application process (complete the correct ownership certificate and serve notice). Before you spend time and fees on a submission, consider an impartial, architect-led pre-purchase appraisal — for… Read more »
Kitchen Renovation Ideas from DfM
Keeping it Simple on a Budget Did you know that only 9% of homeowners in a recent survey made it under their budget (according to Which)?! But don’t worry, the team at Design for Me has assembled some tips on renovating your kitchen on a budget, but keeping it super stylish at the same time!… Read more »
Italian Design Meets British Comfort: The Rise of Contemporary Furniture in the UK
Over the past decade, the UK furniture scene has undergone a quiet transformation. British homeowners are increasingly looking beyond the purely practical and embracing furniture that reflects individuality, emotion, and craftsmanship. Nowhere is this shift more visible than in the growing fascination with Italian design — celebrated for its effortless blend of style, innovation, and… Read more »
Interior design for a headteacher’s office
The headteacher of a school in London was looking for a complete interior re-design of her office. After posting her project to Design for Me we matched her with the best candidates and she received interest from a number of interior designers. Head Mistress’ Office – Interior Designer I become Head Mistress of a school… Read more »
