Can I apply for planning permission before we purchase a house? In short, yes. You do not need to be the owner of a property to apply for planning permission. However, you will need to inform the owner of the property/land prior to submitting the application. Image above by Nick, architect from London. See… Read more »
Keeping it Simple on a Budget Did you know that only 9% of homeowners in a recent survey made it under their budget (according to Which)?! But don’t worry, the team at Design for Me has assembled some tips on renovating your kitchen on a budget, but keeping it super stylish at the same time!… Read more »
Creating a multifunctional garden room is a fantastic way to expand your living space. With some innovative planning, an outdoor room can transform into whatever suits your needs: a mini gym, a flexible entertainment area for hosting guests, or a serene retreat for reading and relaxation. Whether you require an additional lounge or a dedicated… Read more »
Is it a basement extension or a basement conversion? There are many reasons why basement conversions are so popular in London. But before we get into what permissions you might need for a basement conversion, we’ll explain how we differentiate between a basement conversion and a basement extension. If you are planning to extend or… Read more »
How to get the most out of your garden this winter Winter is the time your garden slumbers, riding out the worse that the British weather can throw at it, from heavy rain to sub-zero temperatures. It is the season in which we curl up in front of the fire, warm, cosy and protected against… Read more »
Hiring an architect is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make during your project. The architect you choose will be responsible for designing and managing the construction of your building or space, ensuring that your vision becomes a reality. Design for Me is an excellent starting point for finding the right architect. One of… Read more »
Planning rules for basement extensions Before we delve into the nitty gritty of planning rules for basement extensions, it’s worth checking whether your basement extension will require permission at all. If you’re unsure, you can see these articles: Do I need planning permission for a basement extension? Do you need planning permission for a basement… Read more »
It conflicts with national or local planning policy Before buying a house or embarking on your extension project, it’s a really good idea to look into the likelihood of gaining planning approval for your dream home. The most hard-lined reason for refusal is that the proposal fundamentally conflicts with either national or local planning policy,… Read more »
When asking, ‘can I convert my loft‘, there are various things you need to be aware of here – it may not be a straight ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer. For example it could be possible, but would come at a cost that could not be justified or the space created may not be suit your… Read more »
There’s much in the press about reaching ‘net-zero’ and the role the construction industry has to play in that. Something that is less often in focus is ’embodied carbon’. James Hampton from New Makers Bureau in London shares his expertise on the subject below. See James’ full profile on Design for Me and shortlist him… Read more »
