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 »
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 »
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 »
Have you ever wondered why some of us love rich, fiery and intense colours while others prefer a muted or pastel palette? Whilst most people will profess to ‘love colour’, what that means to each and every one of us is something totally unique. Why is this? Why do we respond so differently to so many colours? The… Read more »
Is it worth getting planning pre-application advice? One of the first hurdles in any home renovation project is obtaining planning permission. Most councils offer a pre-application advice service to homeowners. But is it necessary? It depends on your project and comes down to three things: cost, time and, of course, getting approval for a design… Read more »
Above: Extensions by architects on Design for Me. Click on the image to see their full profile and shortlist them for your project. How big can you build an extension without planning? The permitted development rules have recently been relaxed, allowing you to build an extension without planning permission of up to six metres (or… Read more »
Converting a bungalow to a house A bungalow conversion to a house can involve some or all of the following work: adding an extra storey a loft conversion (within the existing roof space) a loft extension (e.g. adding dormers or changing roof shape) adding a basement below an existing bungalow. In addition to this, you… Read more »
One of the first things you’ll consider is finding a plot of land. This is a huge decision and has implications on the size, shape and style of building that would be suitable. For example, if you are planning a modern design in steel and glass, you should question how far the restrictions go in… Read more »
Do I need a project manager for a house extension? In the construction industry the term ‘project manager’ often gets confused. For a house extension, a ‘project manager’ role is not typical and could be superfluous to requirements if you have a good architect and a good main contractor. Featured image above from Andreas,… Read more »
