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 »
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)? 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 »
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 »
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 »
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 »
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 »
Enhancing your home’s value doesn’t need to mean major renovations or substantial investments. In fact, it can actually be easy to spend too much on a renovation project and never make that money back. However, often it’s the small, strategic improvements that can significantly elevate your property’s worth and represent the best investment over large… Read more »
Converting a bungalow to a house A bungalow conversion to a house can involve some or all of the following work: adding an extra storey a loft conversion (within the existing roof space) a loft extension (e.g. adding dormers or changing roof shape) adding a basement below an existing bungalow. In addition to this, you… Read more »
High impact, low hassle Dare I say it? The days are getting longer and the temperatures are getting warmer. It’s starting to feel a bit like Spring! After a cold and long winter, who wouldn’t want to spend some time out in the garden? But If you live in London like me, your tiny unkempt… Read more »