The Benefits of Hiring an Architect for Your Home Renovation Project

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hiring an architect

If you are planning a home renovation or extension, you may be wondering whether you need to hire an architect. While it may seem like an added expense, hiring an architect can actually save you time, money, and stress in the long run. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of hiring an architect for… Read more »

What is the Neighbour Consultation Scheme?

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Extension architect

What is the Neighbour Consultation Scheme? The Neighbour Consultation Scheme is part of the ‘Prior Approval: Larger Home Extensions’ application. It allows neighbouring properties to be informed about ‘larger’ home extensions that fall within the permitted development rules. In the event that your neighbours express concerns or objections, the local authority will assess whether the… Read more »

A simple guide to making a planning appeal

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Extension design above by Fiona, architectural designer from Hackney, London. See more and shortlist them for your home project here.   What to do if your planning permission is refused? If you do not agree with the decision of your householder planning application, you can submit a planning appeal. Householder applications are for home developments… Read more »

Sustainable renovation ideas: incorporating eco-friendly elements into your home

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Sustainable renovation ideas for your home As our collective awareness of environmental issues grows, so does the desire to make sustainable choices in all aspects of our lives. Home renovations present a significant opportunity to incorporate eco-friendly elements that not only reduce our carbon footprint but also reduce the energy costs and enhance the overall… Read more »

Top tips for a low maintenance garden

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Advice and tips for a low maintenance garden We asked some of the best garden designers on Design for Me for their expert advice on designing a low maintenance garden. Juliet – Garden designer in Stroud, South-West (click on her name to view her full profile and shortlist her for your garden design project)   1. Keep it green Don’t have… Read more »

What’s the difference between planning permission and building regulations?

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Planning permission and building regulations

In summary, planning permission relates to the development’s impact on its surrounding environment whereas building regulations ensure that the development is structurally safe, accessible, sustainable and considers the health and safety of its occupants.   Featured image above – extension by Peter, architect in Bournemouth. See more and shortlist him for your home project here…. Read more »

How to choose an interior designer

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How to choose an interior designer This probably the most important decision you’ll need to make during the entire project. You’re about to invest a great deal in this project and so it’s important you get the very best for your budget. So how do you choose an interior designer? We’ve put together the top ten considerations… Read more »

How Much Does a Party Wall Surveyor Cost?

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A Party Wall surveyor typically costs around £1,000 +VAT for a simple extension project. On some projects, two or even three surveyors are needed – particularly on more complex home projects such as basement extensions. In this case, the costs could be up to £6,000. Extension above by Bianca, architect in London. See more of… Read more »

10 Questions to Ask an Architect in an Interview

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Interviewing an architect is a crucial step in hiring the right professional for your home project. To ensure you find the perfect fit, it’s important to know what questions to ask an architect during the interview process. This article gives 10 of the most common questions that will help you evaluate an architect’s qualifications, experience,… Read more »

Prefab homes, modular homes, kit houses… what’s the difference?

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What’s the difference between modular, prefab and kit homes? If you are a novice self-builder, It’s easy to become overwhelmed with all of the industry jargon out there. ‘prefab homes’, ‘modular homes’, ‘kit houses’, ‘manufactured homes’ (etc…) are sometimes used interchangeably. However, there are subtle but important differences, and it will be critical to understand them in order… Read more »