If you’re planning a small extension, such as a modest rear or side addition to your home, you may be wondering whether you actually need an architect. The short answer is no, there is no legal requirement to hire an architect for an extension project. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best approach. A… Read more »
This question can throw up confusion because there are different surveys for different purposes — and they’re often carried out by different types of surveyors. Let’s quickly clarify the survey types first, then look at typical costs. Survey vs. architectural appraisal – what’s the difference? A house survey (by a chartered surveyor) assesses condition and… Read more »
This week, I have been mostly designing… a rear extension! As this is rather a common project on Design for Me, I thought I’d share some of my research. The brief was quite simple. It involved extending the living room to create a dining area (the client’s current dining table is too small for a family… Read more »
Best sofa bed reviews 2020 Urgh I HATE sofa beds! They’re ugly, squeaky, lumpy, the mattress is too thin, you end up wedged in the middle with your bed fellow. Then to top it all, you go and lose your glasses down the side. Not only are they uncomfortable to sleep on, they’re uncomfortable as a sofa… Read more »
If you live in a period property it’s likely that you will have a number of fireplaces around your home. With modern heating, it’s unlikely that you’d want to bring them all back to life, but it can be a fantastic focal point in a living area and provides some extra cosiness on a cold… Read more »
One of the first things you’ll consider is finding a plot of land. This is a huge decision and has implications on the size, shape and style of building that would be suitable. For example, if you are planning a modern design in steel and glass, you should question how far the restrictions go in… Read more »
There’s no doubt that grey and white wood floors are proving to be a massive hit at present. A wooden floor has become the norm – it’s beautiful, sustainable, hygienic and classic. But before grey and white wood flooring became so popular, the real flooring innovation happened below the level of colour, at the point where engineered… Read more »
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 »
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 »
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 »
