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 »
Posts By: Design for Me
Japandi design ideas – how to find a Japandi architect or interior designer for your home
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
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 »
Should I pay for planning pre-application advice?
Is it worth getting planning pre-application advice? One of the first hurdles in any home renovation project is obtaining planning permission. Most councils offer a pre-application advice service to homeowners. But is it necessary? It depends on your project and comes down to three things: cost, time and, of course, getting approval for a design… Read more »
What is an interior architect? (And how to find one for your renovation project.)
The title ‘interior architect’ is used frequently in the architecture/design industry, even though it isn’t a title that is officially recognised or regulated. It’s usually adopted by either: a qualified architect who specialises or works only with the interior elements of construction, or an interior designer who is also a qualified architect. The title of… Read more »
How big can I build an extension without planning permission (permitted development)?
How big can I build an extension without planning permission (permitted development)? The permitted development (PD) rules allow many homeowners to build a rear extension without full planning permission — up to six metres from the original rear wall of most houses, or eight metres if your house is detached (subject to the detailed… Read more »
Permitted development rights for a two-storey extension
Two storey extension above by Martin, architect on Design for Me. View his full profile and shortlist him for your project here Do I need planning permission for a two storey extension? Two storey extensions do not require planning permission, if they fall within permitted development guidelines described below. How big can I build… Read more »
How much does a house renovation cost?
Rising construction costs in the UK are now common knowledge. In the last two years, material shortages and supply chain issues due to the pandemic caused sharp rises in material costs. While this problem has subsided, other factors such as inflation, Brexit and the war in Ukraine have pushed prices up even further. Not only… Read more »
Permitted development for barn conversions (Class Q)
Since 2014 barn conversions have benefitted from permitted development rights, meaning a full planning application is not required. For many, this has made barn conversions an attractive alternative to a new build. The main advantage here is speed and simplicity of gaining permission. There are other reasons that you might decide to opt for barn… Read more »
10 of the best architects for listed buildings in the UK
We’ve rounded up some of the best architects to deal with homes that are listed buildings, across the UK. David – Listed building architect in Bath (click on their name above to view their full profile and shortlist them for your project) I am passionate about creating homes that are beautiful, respond to their… Read more »
