How to Build Your Own House

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Self Build House

A Simple Guide to Getting Started Self-build projects have been known to be expensive and intimidating, although over the last few years, building your own home has gotten a lot easier. There are over 6 million people in the UK who want to build their own home and over 1 million in progress, according to This Is Money. Now… Read more »

Kitchen Renovation Ideas from DfM

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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 »

Six inspiring tips and ideas for a multifunctional garden room

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garden room ideas

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 »

Do you need permission for a basement conversion?

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basement conversion

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 »

What are the best winter garden plants?

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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 »

What are the planning rules for basement extensions?

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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 »

Why do planning applications get refused? (Private house projects)

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Mansard roof extension with terrace

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 »

Can I convert my loft?

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Can i convert my loft?

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 »

Making more with less – what is embodied carbon?

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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 »

How to use LED lighting efficiently in your home

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Lighting design is one of the most important aspects of your home building or renovation project, but is too often an after-thought. The advantages of LED lighting are now well known and, in fact, it may be compulsory that you choose LED to meet building code standards. But it’s not just the position of the… Read more »