Dome Houses – pros and cons? Dome houses, with their unique and futuristic designs, have been captivating architects, builders, and homeowners alike for decades. These distinctive structures, characterised by their curved, spherical, or geodesic shapes, have garnered attention not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their numerous advantages as a construction type. In… Read more »
Posts By: Design for Me
What are the planning rules for basement extensions?
Planning rules for basement extensions Before we delve into the nitty gritty of planning rules for basement extensions, it’s worth checking whether your basement extension will require permission at all. If you’re unsure, you can see these articles: Do I need planning permission for a basement extension? Do you need planning permission for a basement… Read more »
Five quick, low cost interior design ideas to transform your home
Are you yearning for a fresh look in your home but don’t want to dive into a full-scale renovation project? Thankfully, we have 5 quick and low cost interior design ideas to transform the ambiance and design of your interiors. Image above by Wren, interior designer in North London. See her full profile and… Read more »
Why do planning applications get refused? (Private house projects)
It conflicts with national or local planning policy Before buying a house or embarking on your extension project, it’s a really good idea to look into the likelihood of gaining planning approval for your dream home. The most hard-lined reason for refusal is that the proposal fundamentally conflicts with either national or local planning policy,… Read more »
Can I convert my loft?
When asking, ‘can I convert my loft‘, there are various things you need to be aware of here – it may not be a straight ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer. For example it could be possible, but would come at a cost that could not be justified or the space created may not be suit your… Read more »
How to use LED lighting efficiently in your home
Lighting design is one of the most important aspects of your home building or renovation project, but is too often an after-thought. The advantages of LED lighting are now well known and, in fact, it may be compulsory that you choose LED to meet building code standards. But it’s not just the position of the… Read more »
Do I need planning permission for a basement extension?
Do I need planning permission for a basement extension? Basement extensions are one of the more ambiguous projects when it comes to planning consent and unfortunately it’s not a straight yes or no. Nationally, the planning rules around forming living accommodation in basements is ever changing and under review. Local councils will also have their… Read more »
How to find the best house extension architect in your area
Finding the best house extension architect Here at Design for Me, we are experts in matching and connecting homeowners with the best house extension architect for their particular project. We have put together our top tips for finding the perfect architect for your house extension and how to avoid common pitfalls. Extension image above from… Read more »
How to get planning permission for a new build house
There are a number of different routes to gaining planning permission for a new build house. This article explains the different options that are available to help you decide which route is right for your particular project and circumstances. Featured image above – self-build design by Stephen, architect from Southwark. Click here to see more… Read more »
Guide to permitted development rules
What is permitted development? Permitted development – or officially General Permitted Development Order (GDPO) – allows you to carry out certain minor alterations or building projects without needing any planning permission. However, some permitted development projects will require a prior approval application (see below). If you want to be certain that your proposal falls within… Read more »