Different surveys do different jobs — some check a property’s condition, others provide valuation, and some produce the measured drawings your architect will need for design. Use this simple route-finder (with examples) to pick the right one for your situation. Quick answer Buying a modern home, low risk: HomeBuyer Report (Level 2) + Valuation… Read more »
Posts Categorized: Cost Planning
How to Build Your Own 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 »
Kitchen Renovation Ideas from DfM
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 »
How much does tiling cost per square metre?
The cost of tiling per square metre can vary widely depending on the type of tile you choose, the complexity of the installation, your location, and the labour costs in your area. However, here are some general guidelines. Bathroom design above by Pia, architectural designer from South Bucks, South East. Click here to see… Read more »
What to ask your architect to maximise rental yield
Refreshing your property before letting it out? Make sure to invest your money wisely to maximise rental yield. Each decision you make when looking to maximise rental yields matters. From the layout and finishes to energy efficiency, it can have a direct impact on how much rent you charge and how quickly you attract tenants…. Read more »
How much does a self-build house cost?
(Self Build Architects from Design for Me. From Left to Right – Jake, Mark, Lucy, James, Liam, Felix) Ever dreamed about having a house designed just for you? How good would it be to have control over the shape of every room, materials, fittings and fixtures! You ‘bespoke’ means ‘expensive’ but it might be more affordable than you think… especially when you consider there… Read more »
Architect AND interior designer – do I need both?
This is a source of confusion for many clients. Generally speaking, an architect will design the external shell of the building (walls, roof, windows, etc) and an interior designer would design and specify the interior decoration, furniture and fittings. The work that sits in between – space planning of rooms, finishes and fixtures – could… Read more »
How much does a mansard roof extension cost? (UK 2025)
How much does a mansard roof extension cost? Mansard roof extensions are one of the most effective ways to gain a full extra storey – especially on period homes in London and other historic cities. Below, we share UK costs from our architects’ survey, with a clear breakdown for London & South East vs outside… Read more »
Key Tips For Booking A Trusted Last-Minute Removal Team
Moving at short notice is stressful, especially when you’re juggling packing, timing, and uncertainty. Finding a reliable team quickly can feel overwhelming, but with the right steps, you’ll save yourself time and stress. If you’re in this situation, keep reading for practical advice that’ll guide you through booking a trusted last-minute removal team with confidence…. Read more »
How Much Does a House Extension Cost?
2025 Cost Benchmarks from 100+ Residential Architects on Design for Me This year, we conducted a nationwide survey of architects and architectural designers on Design for Me. The information below reflects these updated figures. As a headline, we found that a 10m² single-storey kitchen extension in the UK typically costs around £80,000–£100,000 in 2025 (including… Read more »
