Before sifting through loads of plotfinder websites, you might find this very useful… Frustratingly, there isn’t a one-stop-shop for finding your plot of land. Unlike house buying, where you can pretty much rely on RightMove & Zoopla to pick up everything on the market, there are a plethora of plot finder websites out there and… Read more »
Posts By: Design for Me
Do garden rooms add value?
Garden rooms can add significant value to your property. Not only will they increase the square footage to your home in a cost-effective way, they also provide the separation that homeowners now desire in a home office. They have become incredibly popular, particularly as more people now work from home. This need for an additional… Read more »
How Much Does a House Extension Cost?
2025 Cost Benchmarks from 100+ Residential Architects on Design for Me This year, we conducted a nationwide survey of architects and architectural designers on Design for Me. The information below reflects these updated figures. As a headline, we found that a 10m² single-storey kitchen extension in the UK typically costs around £80,000–£100,000 in 2025 (including… Read more »
How much does a garden designer cost?
If you’re planning to redesign your garden, understanding the cost of hiring a garden designer is an essential starting point. The cost of a garden designer can vary greatly, depending on the size and complexity of the project, as well as the designer’s experience and location. For small projects, garden designers typically charge around 20%… Read more »
Cheapest Way to Extend Your Home | Loft vs Extension vs Garage Conversion
Adding more living space is one of the best ways to improve both your quality of life and the value of your home. But what is the cheapest way to do it: loft conversion, extension, or garage conversion? The answer depends on your property, your needs, and how you plan the project. At the heart… Read more »
What Happens If I Build Without Planning Permission?
Short answer: you may be asked to change or remove the work, face planning enforcement, and hit problems selling or remortgaging. In some cases (notably listed buildings) it can even be a criminal offence. The earlier you take expert advice, the better your outcome. This article provides general guidance, not legal advice. Policies and interpretations… Read more »
Advantages of a Timber Frame Self-Build
You have finally found the perfect plot to build on, have set a proper budget for your project, and are now ready to select a building material. Believe it or not, many UK homeowners in your shoes are turning away from brick and steel in favour of a different material…timber! That’s right, there has been… Read more »
Acoustic panels: Transforming spaces with style and sound control
Modern interior design is no longer just about aesthetics. Today, the focus extends beyond visual appeal to incorporate comfort, functionality, and well-being. One element that is quietly revolutionising both public and private spaces is the strategic use of acoustic panels. While their primary function is to manage sound, these panels are also making statements as… Read more »
How Do I Avoid Planning Permission Refusal? 7 Common Mistakes
Planning permission can feel opaque: evolving policies, strict validation rules, and lots of moving parts (heritage, neighbours, trees, flood risk…). However, most refusals and long delays are avoidable. If you tackle these common pitfalls early, you’ll save weeks and give your design the best chance of first-time approval. • Most householder applications aim to be… Read more »
Eco-design principles for your self-build
Title image from Edward, architect from Tooting Bec, London. See his full profile and shortlist him for your project here. Why Sustainable Design? Planning your dream eco-home? We’ve put together a brief summary of the main eco-design principles to follow when designing your new home. Most of us would agree that it is important… Read more »
