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 »
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 »
Beginner’s guide to barn conversions An old barn can provide the perfect shell to create your ideal home. These large and often very solid structures give the opportunity to create a house with huge expanses of space and high ceilings. Most importantly, by retaining the original form, materials or structure, it adds character, charm and history to your otherwise… Read more »
Can I apply for planning permission before we purchase a house? In short, yes. You do not need to be the owner of a property to apply for planning permission. However, you will need to inform the owner of the property/land prior to submitting the application. Image above by Nick, architect from London. See… Read more »
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 »
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 »
small garden ideas and tips from the experts We asked some of the best garden designers on Design for Me for their expert advice on designing a small 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) If you have a small garden, lucky… Read more »
Architects are trained professionals who specialise in designing functional, beautiful, and safe buildings that meet their clients’ needs. However, even the most talented and experienced architect may not always get it right first time. So, what happens if you don’t like your architect’s design? This stunning extension pictured above is by Stephen, architect in… Read more »
Hiring an architect is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make during your project. The architect you choose will be responsible for designing and managing the construction of your building or space, ensuring that your vision becomes a reality. Design for Me is an excellent starting point for finding the right architect. One of… Read more »
What is a self build mortgage? A self build mortgage is different to a traditional mortgage in that the funds are released in stages as the build progresses. This is ultimately to reduce the risk to the lender. Featured image above by Allister, architect from Oxfordshire. See more and shortlist them for your home… Read more »
