How to create a winning profile for new residential projects… 1. Be relevant for this market Design for Me is all about one-off private residential projects. It provides an opportunity to market directly for this part of your business. Although it may be tempting to showcase your large scale, non-residential work, this may ultimately be off-putting… Read more »
Which one to choose: solid or engineered wood floor? Choosing the finishes for your home project can be the most exciting part. Floors in particular can dramatically change the overall look of your new extension, so it’s important to get it right. People are increasingly opting for timber flooring over carpet for a look that’s… Read more »
It’s a common assumption that terms are interchangeable, particularly in relation to new build housing. This is a simple guide to explain the difference between outline planning and permission in principle in basic terms, and which route might be the most suitable for your project. In short, they are essentially very similar. However, permission in… 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… 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 »
You could well only need to pay HMRC 5% VAT on renovations in certain cases, but for most renovation works on houses and flats your builder will be required to charge you the standard VAT rate (20%). However, where the property has not been lived in for two years, your builder can reduce their rate… Read more »
Title image: See Sara Jane’s profile here Have some garden design ideas? When undertaking a project such as designing a new garden, you’ll want to make sure you’re spending your money in the best possible way. The principles to achieving this remain the same no matter how big or small your project… 1. MAKE A PLAN… Read more »
A wet room bathroom is a sleek and contemporary alternative to traditional bathrooms, where the shower space is seamlessly integrated into the rest of the room, without the need for a cubicle or bath. This open-plan layout not only creates a sense of spaciousness but also makes your bathroom more accessible and easier to clean…. Read more »
If you’re planning a self build, you will need a structural engineer to assist you. They will be able to: Provide detailed plans and drawings for your project. Help in the creation of your schedule and the calculation of your budget. Inspect your plans to ensure structural soundness. Assist in your adherence to the building… Read more »
