Hiring an architect is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make during your project. A skilled architect can help you achieve the best design, manage your budget, navigate legal requirements, and help ensure a smooth construction process that’s completed on time and within budget. Design for Me is an excellent starting point for finding… Read more »
It’s a well known fact, although often overlooked, that lawns are hard work. If you want a low-maintenance garden that looks great all year round, a huge expanse of lawn is simply not the best option. Lots of people opt for lawn as the obvious choice – it’s relatively cheap to install and it’s soft enough… Read more »
There are no universal space standards for homes in the UK nor are there universal minimum room sizes. Instead, there are regulations that exist for different circumstances and project types. In any home building or renovation project, the two main statutory obligations you will need to fulfil are planning permission and building regulations approval (building… Read more »
This week, Hugh, one of the architects on Design for Me, has offered up some top tips on finding building plots for a self-build house in London. However, much of the advice extends to other areas in the UK too. Hugh, London based architect on Design for Me Self-build plots are notoriously difficult to find in… Read more »
Sponsored post If you want to redecorate this year and make your home more inspiring – more you – here are some simple tips to help. 1. Add an entertainment wall Entertainment walls are a popular feature of many living rooms and are a fierce competitor of the classic feature fireplace as the key… Read more »
Can I build a home extension without permission? The short answer is no; at the very minimum, you will need to get building control approval so you can’t build your extension entirely without permission. However, it could be very straightforward to obtain and does not need to delay you getting started (see below). The other… Read more »
Do you need building control approval for an extension? If you’re planning to extend your home, you will need to comply with the building regulations. This is a legal requirement and, without formal approval and control, your local council could force you open up or re-build sometimes significant aspects of the project. It could even… Read more »
You wouldn’t usually need planning permission to convert your garage into additional living space, provided that the space won’t be used as a separate dwelling and the works are all internal. These permitted development rights for a garage conversion will only apply where permitted development rights have not been removed (see below). Converting a… Read more »
Listed building consent is a crucial aspect of owning and maintaining a listed property. The need for listed building consent can be triggered for minor or internal alterations—anything that involves the demolition, modification, or expansion of a listed building that could impact its unique architectural or historical significance. See our article here for house renovations… Read more »
In the vibrant and provocative world of cinema, the 2019 South Korean film “Parasite” not only garnered global acclaim for its gripping narrative and exceptional storytelling but subtly etched a strong influence on modern interior design trends. When the South Korean film, “Parasite,” won several awards at the Oscars 2020, many people were fascinated… Read more »
