After calculating how much your house extension will cost, it is essential to allow for an appropriate amount of contingency. Contingency budgeting enables you to prepare for unforeseen circumstances and unexpected costs that may arise during the extension project. In this article, we will explore the factors to consider when determining how much contingency to… Read more »
Posts By: Design for Me
Interior designers in Bristol and Bath
If you’re planning a home renovation or refurbishment, finding the right interior designer can be the critical first step. We’ve compiled some of the best interior designers in Bristol and Bath to give you a starting point, and hopefully provide a little inspiration too. The Bristol and Bath area is brimming with talented interior designers,… Read more »
Residential architects in Birmingham and West Midlands
Home renovation and extension architects in Birmingham and West Midlands 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 Birmingham and the West Midlands to give you a starting point, and hopefully provide a little inspiration too. The West… Read more »
Timber cladding – ideas and inspiration
Timber cladding – from Design for Me’s architects and designers Timber cladding is an increasingly popular choice in the UK for both new builds and extension projects. In particular black timber cladding or charred timber cladding can make for a striking, modern aesthetic – like the one pictured above by Jan, architect in South London… Read more »
Do I need planning permission for a garden room?
Do I need planning permission for a garden room? Garden rooms or buildings do not require planning permission, if they fall within permitted development guidelines. To classify as an ‘outbuilding’ under permitted development rules, it must not contain sleeping accommodation and must be single storey with a maximum eaves height of 2.5m. There are a few… Read more »
How much does artificial grass cost?
Image above from Easigrass Think artificial grass and you might immediately think of greengrocer shelves or 1970s football pitches, but the technology to make it look and feel real has come on leaps and bounds in the past few years. Wanting to spend time enjoying their gardens rather than tending to them, more and more… Read more »
Rural retreats and barn conversion ideas – the best from Design for Me architects
Rural retreats and barn conversion ideas Every day, here at Design for Me, we match up people planning barn conversion projects with the best residential architects from all over the UK. We thought it was about time we showcased some of the amazing projects from architects on Design for Me to give you some inspiration… Read more »
Building regs considerations – can I make my entire ground floor open plan?
Open stairways to living areas – fire safety (Part B) considerations If you want your ground floor to be totally open plan, there are key consideration in terms of Building Regulations are the associated fire safety issues. Part B of the Approved Documents gives guidance on how to meet the Building Regulations in England and… Read more »
How much does a new bathroom cost?
As a general starting point a basic bathroom renovation cost upwards of £5,000+VAT. This is a starting cost for modest re-decoration, finishes and sanitary ware, and retaining the existing plumbing and electrics. There are are a few considerations outlined below that will increase this cost, such as the condition of the existing bathroom, whether you… Read more »
Extending upwards – new permitted development rules for two storey extensions
Can I add two storeys to a house without planning permission? Thanks to a planning amendment in 2020, it is now possible to extend upwards, even adding a double storey extension to your home, using the prior approval route. However, this permitted development right is not applicable to all properties. Design above by Simon,… Read more »
