Good news – you usually don’t need planning permission for a modest rear extension, thanks to permitted development (PD) rights. There are important rules and exceptions though, so read on to see if your home and proposal qualify. Extension pictured above by Oliver, architect from Wandsworth, London. Click here to see more and shortlist… Read more »
Building your own home is a dream for many, and it doesn’t have to break the bank. With thoughtful planning and the right approach, it’s entirely possible to build an affordable house in the UK that meets your needs without compromising on quality. Image above by Sam, architectural designer on Design for Me. See their full… Read more »
Want to test inclusive layouts quickly and visually? Whether you’re designing a home, rental, or workspace, accessible interior design doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right tools, UK architects and designers can plan barrier-free spaces that meet Part M of the Building Regulations and BS 8300 standards, without needing expensive software. In this… Read more »
Extensions designed by a design and build company (above left) and an independent architect (above right), both registered on Design for Me. Click the images to see their full profiles and shortlist them for your project. Should I use the builder’s architect or an independent one? When looking to do an extension or home… Read more »
Embarking on a self-build project is an exciting journey that allows you to create a home tailored to your exact needs and tastes. One of the first crucial steps is choosing the right construction method. Here, we’ll explore some of the most common self-build construction methods used in the UK, highlighting their benefits and potential… Read more »
When planning a bedroom renovation, one decision often shapes everything else: the bed. More than just a place to sleep, the bed is the visual and functional centrepiece of the room. Get it right, and the rest of your design can fall into place. According to the UK Office for National Statistics (ONS), there was… Read more »
GPDO stands for General Permitted Development Order. Permitted development gives permission to undertake certain alterations, extensions or additions to your home without requiring Planning Permission. Design above by Will, architect from Brighton and Hove, South East. Click here to see more and shortlist them for your home project. When permitted development doesn’t apply There… Read more »
Finding interior designers near me This week, we thought we’d share our answer to a frequently asked question here at Design for Me: ‘Should I only consider interior designers near me??’ Whether you are planning on just re-decorating one room, fitting a new kitchen or bathroom or planning a whole house re-design, finding the right designer is probably the most critical decision… Read more »
If you’re planning to build or modify a boundary wall around your property, it’s essential to understand the planning rules. Getting it wrong can lead to enforcement notices and costly alterations. So, just how high can you build a wall without needing planning permission in the UK? The General Rule In most cases, you… Read more »
Nordic design has become a hallmark of contemporary interiors—think clean lines, natural materials, and an emphasis on simplicity and function. In the past, much of this attention has gravitated toward Denmark and Sweden. But just to the east, Finland has quietly been contributing to this design movement in its own distinctive way. It’s time to… Read more »
