Now, which construction technique will you adopt for your self-build? Trying to find a solution that’s easy on the environment as well as your bank account? Cob construction may well be the answer. Homes made with straw, clay and soil may seem to be out of date in today’s modern architectural world. But there are some… Read more »
Whether you’re planning a whole house renovation or a single room makeover, consulting an interior designer can make the world of difference to the end result. Here at Design for Me we specialise in helping homeowners find the right interior design companies for their job. Many homeowners don’t know if they require an interior designer… Read more »
Home office ideas – from Design for Me’s architects and designers As home working this year became essential, we started to notice the benefits – flexibility, comfort and gaining back precious time wasted on the dreaded commute. For many of us, particularly with employers noticing the advantages too, it’s clear that home working is here… Read more »
Most homeowners who use Design for Me typically have the following things in common: They value great design. They want to love their home and feel proud of it. They don’t feel talented or inspired enough to make all the design decisions themselves. They are keen to get the most out of their budget. Featured… Read more »
This simple guide – ‘how to write an architectural brief’ – is aimed at homeowners planning a house extension, renovation or a self-build house. As an architect myself, I created this platform – Design for Me – to help homeowners find the best residential architect for their particular project. It’s free to use and we’re on… Read more »
Glass is a material that has long been used in all kinds of structural applications. In spite on its fragility, glass is known to be robust and strong. In the right hands, with the right balustrade components and fixings glass can be used for just about anything. Unsurprisingly, homeowners are now finding that glass is… Read more »
Why do I need a flood risk assessment and what is it? If you are applying for planning permission, you may be need to provide a flood risk assessment with your application. This demonstrates the flood risk for your proposed development. When is a flood risk assessment required? A flood risk assessment is required… Read more »
To design the best house extension layout, it should not be seen as a stand-alone project. To make the most of this extra space, you and your architect should consider the best layout for the entire house. But don’t worry – this doesn’t mean you will need to rethink the entire existing layout! Working within… Read more »
Can you pay to extend planning permission? You used to be able to pay to extend planning permission, but this has not been the case for many years now. Your two options now are to either: Submit a new application Make sure all the planning conditions are discharged and commence development* before the permission expires…. Read more »
For most renovation works on houses and flats, your builder will be required to charge you at the standard rate of VAT (20%). However, there is an exception where your builder can reduce their rate to 5% VAT on a renovation. This is where the property has not been lived in for two years. This… Read more »
