Do you need a Design and Access Statement for a house extension?

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Design and Access Statement

A Design and Access statement is a written, often illustrated, document that accompanies your planning application form and drawings. It provides an opportunity to explain how your design proposal is a suitable response for its site and wider area. It’s only a requirement for major projects, listed buildings or certain householder applications in a conservation… Read more »

How to set and control your home renovation budget

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How to budget for a renovation

Are you gearing up for a home renovation project? It’s an exciting endeavor, but the costs can be daunting. Don’t worry; this guide has you covered. We’ll guide you through budgeting, comparing quotes, considering DIY options, and uncovering hidden expenses. You’ll become a renovation budget pro in no time. Ready to tackle your renovation budget… Read more »

How to get planning permission for a roof terrace

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Roof terrace

Converting an existing flat roof or new flat roof to a terrace can be a great idea, particularly for properties without a garden. It can raise the value of your home and potentially be an inexpensive upgrade (particularly if the roof is already structurally sound for this purpose – more on that below).   Roof… Read more »

Can a neighbour object to permitted development?

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permitted development extension

… or rather the question should be, will any action be taken by the council if a neighbour objects to your permitted development extension? A neighbour’s objection to your extension can, of course, be taken on board and investigated by your local council. However, if the extension falls within the permitted development guidelines, no action… Read more »

Seven Building Materials that Stand the Test of Time

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Sponsored post Long-lasting building materials are highly sought after. Nobody wants a home, office, or property extension built from materials that aren’t made to last.  Aesthetics are one thing but as materials start to wear away, the structures themselves become compromised. This isn’t just an expensive problem to fix, it also poses a significant health… Read more »

The Impact of Colour in Living Room Furniture and Design

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colour

Colour influences how we feel. It is a basic design element; our moods and feelings are deeply affected by the colours we see. Therefore, selecting the right colours for your living room is a project where you need to put in some effort. Vibrant hues like red and yellow can energize and uplift your spirits…. Read more »

Building regulations for a house conversion

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Where a house renovation results in a ‘material change of use’, there are requirements for upgrading certain building elements and meeting standards that go beyond what is required for a typical house renovation. Thanks to Nick Paley at Assure Building Control for their assistance with this article. Assure Building Control provide a fully licenced independent… Read more »

How to Build Your Own House

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Self Build House

A Simple Guide to Getting Started Self-build projects have been known to be expensive and intimidating, although over the last few years, building your own home has gotten a lot easier. There are over 6 million people in the UK who want to build their own home and over 1 million in progress, according to This Is Money. Now… Read more »

Can I apply for planning permission before I buy a property?

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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 »

Kitchen Renovation Ideas from DfM

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Keeping it Simple on a Budget Did you know that only 9% of homeowners in a recent survey made it under their budget (according to Which)?! But don’t worry, the team at Design for Me has assembled some tips on renovating your kitchen on a budget, but keeping it super stylish at the same time!… Read more »