Image above from Easigrass Think artificial grass and you might immediately think of greengrocer shelves or 1970s football pitches, but the technology to make it look and feel real has come on leaps and bounds in the past few years. Wanting to spend time enjoying their gardens rather than tending to them, more and more… Read more »
Posts Categorized: Cost Planning
How much does a new bathroom cost?

As a general starting point a basic bathroom renovation cost upwards of £5,000+VAT. This is a starting cost for modest re-decoration, finishes and sanitary ware, and retaining the existing plumbing and electrics. There are are a few considerations outlined below that will increase this cost, such as the condition of the existing bathroom, whether you… Read more »
Architect cost calculator

Architects’ fees calculator As a basic rule of thumb for private residential projects, a residential architect typically charges between 10-12% of the construction cost for full architectural services. Use our architect cost calculator below to estimate how much your architect may cost. We have also developed an extension cost calculator, which you can use here…. Read more »
Side Return Extensions: Advice & Inspiration

A side return extension is a popular method for expanding space in Victorian terraced houses, particularly those with an L-shaped garden formed by a narrow strip of land alongside the property. By extending into this under-utilised area, homeowners can create a more spacious and brighter interior, often transforming the kitchen or living areas. For inspiration… Read more »
How much does a new kitchen cost?

We surveyed our community of architects from all over the UK to help answer this question – how much does a new kitchen cost? Architect designed kitchen pictured above by Victoria, architect in East London. See her full profile and shortlist her practice for your home project here. ‘For a ‘typical’ 10m2 extension, how… Read more »
How much value does a house extension add?

Work from Design for Me architects: (click to view their full profiles) Matt, Corin, Robert, Tom, Rashid, Giles Is it worthwhile extending your home right now? Planning rules have been relaxed In recent years the government have relaxed planning rules in regards to extensions. The changes have given homeowners more flexibility to improve and increase the value… Read more »
Architect hourly rates UK

Architect hourly rates UK from small residential practices range from £70-100 per hour depending on their experience, according to the most recent data published by The Fees Bureau (2022). Extension pictured above by Will, architect from East Sussex. Click here to see more and shortlist Will’s practice for your home project. Regional differences… Read more »
How Much Does Timber Flooring Cost?
Timber flooring offers a timeless aesthetic and durability that appeals to many homeowners. Below, we explore the costs of engineered timber flooring, solid wood flooring, luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring, and the restoration of existing timber floors through sanding, filling, and oiling. What is engineered timber flooring? Engineered wood flooring consists of a real… Read more »
How much does a roof conversion cost?

We frequently get asked for cost guidance by homeowners on Design for Me, and one of the most common is, ‘How Much Does a Roof Conversion Cost’. We would always encourage you to discuss designs and budgets with your architect or designer and then get quotes from builders, but we know that a rough starting… Read more »
How Much Does a Roof Extension Cost in 2025 – Updated Survey from UK Architects

We surveyed over 100 residential architects on Design for Me, from across the UK asking, ‘How much does a typical roof extension cost?’. This updated survey provides a current data-backed view of what you can expect to pay for a typical roof extension, broken down by region, as well as related costs like architect’s fees… Read more »
