Thinking about adding a porch to your home? You may be pleased to hear that in many cases, you don’t need planning permission. However, there are specific limits and conditions you need to follow for your project to qualify as permitted development under English planning rules. Planning Rules for Porches in England In general, adding… Read more »
Posts Categorized: Cost Planning
Can I Build an Outhouse Without Planning Permission? UK Guide for 2025
Are you wondering: “Can I build an outhouse without planning permission in the UK?” You’re not alone. Outhouses, garden rooms, and similar structures are increasingly popular, but understanding the legal requirements is crucial before you build. This guide explains when planning permission is required and when you can build an outhouse under Permitted Development rights—helping… Read more »
Architects Services – How Much Do Architectural Drawings Cost?
If you’re planning a home extension, renovation or self-build, architectural drawings are often one of the first steps in the process. But how much should you expect to pay for them? Here’s a clear breakdown of what architectural drawings involve, how much they cost (based on real client examples from Design for Me), and how… Read more »
How Much Does It Cost to Hire an Interior Designer for a Single Room?
Hiring an interior designer doesn’t have to mean a full home renovation. In fact, many homeowners choose to start with just one room — whether it’s a bedroom, home office, or kitchen — as a smart and affordable way to transform their living space. Designing a single room can set the tone for your whole… Read more »
Interior Design Services – Living Room Design Cost
How Much Does Living Room Interior Design Cost? Designing your living room can be a rewarding investment. It’s the heart of your home – a space for relaxing, entertaining, and showcasing your personal style. But how much does it actually cost to hire an interior designer for a living room project in the UK? This… Read more »
Do I need an architect or interior designer?
Do I need an architect or an interior designer? This is a frequently asked question here at Design for Me. Sometimes the answer is very clear cut but often there’s a grey area! So be re-assured that it’s not a very silly question. I’ve worked as both an architect and an interior designer in my… Read more »
How to Get the Most Value from Your Architect on a Tight Budget
Hiring an architect may seem like a luxury if you’re working with limited funds, but it can be one of the most cost-effective decisions you make. With the right strategy and a clear plan, it’s entirely possible to get real value from your architect on a budget — and even save money in the long… Read more »
What do architects charge for a design and build project?
Architects fees for a ‘design and build’ project You can expect an architect’s fees to be less on a ‘design and build’ project than a traditionally procured project. The Fees Bureau (2022) found that average architects’ fees for a design and build private house project, varied between 5.8% – 10.1% depending on the construction… Read more »
Energy Grants UK
The government has invested £12 billion with the aim of making our homes warmer and cheaper to heat. Funding is not given directly, but through installers, local authorities, energy companies and other bodies. You may have heard of the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme, where payments are made for seven years and are based… Read more »
How much contingency should I budget for an extension?
After calculating how much your house extension will cost, it is essential to allow for an appropriate amount of contingency. Contingency budgeting enables you to prepare for unforeseen circumstances and unexpected costs that may arise during the extension project. In this article, we will explore the factors to consider when determining how much contingency to… Read more »
