Do I need planning permission to convert my garage?

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

You wouldn’t usually need planning permission to convert your garage into additional living space, provided that the space won’t be used as a separate dwelling and the works are all internal. These permitted development rights for a garage conversion will only apply where permitted development rights have not been removed (see below).   Converting a… Read more »

Do I need both planning permission and listed building consent?

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

Listed building consent is a crucial aspect of owning and maintaining a listed property. The need for listed building consent can be triggered for minor or internal alterations—anything that involves the demolition, modification, or expansion of a listed building that could impact its unique architectural or historical significance. See our article here for house renovations… Read more »

The Influence of Furniture in ‘Parasite’ on Modern Interior Design Trends

Posted by & filed under Advice and tips, Guest post, Renovations.

In the vibrant and provocative world of cinema, the 2019 South Korean film “Parasite” not only garnered global acclaim for its gripping narrative and exceptional storytelling but subtly etched a strong influence on modern interior design trends.    When the South Korean film, “Parasite,” won several awards at the Oscars 2020, many people were fascinated… Read more »

How much does a wraparound extension cost?

Posted by & filed under Cost Planning, Extensions.

A wraparound extension (a combined side and rear extension) can cost anywhere between £2,000–£3900+ per square metre to build, based on figures reported by residential architects and designers on Design for Me in 2022.    COSTS PER SQUARE METRE We asked our community of residential architects and design professionals for their experience of domestic projects and how they… Read more »

Single storey extension ideas

Posted by & filed under Extensions, Inspiration.

Extension design above by Daniel, an architect in Islington, London. Click on the image to see his profile and shortlist him for your project.    House extension ideas – inspiration for your single storey extension Design for Me has a community of hundreds of architects and architectural designers all across the country and we’ve complied the… Read more »

Colour Psychology in Interior Design

Posted by & filed under Advice and tips, Interiors.

Have you ever wondered why some of us love rich, fiery and intense colours while others prefer a muted or pastel palette? Whilst most people will profess to ‘love colour’, what that means to each and every one of us is something totally unique. Why is this? Why do we respond so differently to so many colours? The… Read more »

Japandi design ideas – how to find a Japandi architect or interior designer for your home

Posted by & filed under Inspiration, Interiors.

What is Japandi? Japandi style is a mix of Japanese and Scandinavian influences, creating a simple and minimalist aesthetic that is perfect for modern homes. The look combines the best of both worlds, blending the clean lines and minimalism of Scandinavian design with the warmth and natural elements of Japanese style.   Japandi materials and… Read more »

70s-Inspired Interior Design: A Minimalist Revival for 2025

Posted by & filed under Interiors.

The 70s are making a comeback in the world of interior design—again! But this time, we’re leaving behind the dizzying swirls of orange and brown, oversized florals, and shag carpets that once defined the era. Instead, 2025’s take on 70s-inspired interiors is pared-back, sophisticated, and firmly rooted in minimalism. Think of it as a warm… Read more »