Finding plots in London and other major UK cities With empty plots of land being difficult and often very expensive to come by, it’s no wonder that many self-builders and renovators instead convert an existing building into their dream home, applying for a change of use to residential. This is particularly of interest in the UK’s… Read more »
Rural retreats and barn conversion ideas Every day, here at Design for Me, we match up people planning barn conversion projects with the best residential architects from all over the UK. We thought it was about time we showcased some of the amazing projects from architects on Design for Me to give you some inspiration… Read more »
Image above: View Profile of Giles, architect of dormer loft conversions above We frequently get asked for cost guidance by homeowners on Design for Me. 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 point… Read more »
Stairs and Staircases – Building Regulations – Part K Any building works to homes requires compliance with the building regulations and the Approved Documents set out guidance on how to achieve this. Part K of the Approved Documents, titled ‘Protection from falling, collision and impact’ covers stairs and staircases. How steep can stairs… Read more »
Extension design above by Eddy, architect from Westminster, London. See more and shortlist them for your home project here. Our complete guide for your loft conversion plans A loft conversion is one of the most cost-effective and convenient ways to increase space in your home. One of the major advantage is that the work can… Read more »
We’ve rounded up some of the best architects for barn conversions and rural projects across the UK. David – Barn conversion architect in SE London (click on their name above to view their full profile and shortlist them for your project) ‘I run a RIBA Chartered Practice based in Crystal Palace, South London…. Read more »
In most circumstances you will not need planning permission for a loft conversion, as the development will be covered by GPDO (permitted development). However, you should also check if your permitted development rights are restricted or have been removed (see below)* Roof extension pictured above by Ben+Eoin, architect from Southwark, London. Click here to… Read more »
What’s the minimum ceiling height allowed? Funnily enough, this is one of the most common questions I’m asked as a residential architect. But for good reason: it’s so important to look at the most obvious constraints of a renovation project first. It will shape the brief, how much you are willing to spend on the… Read more »
Under current planning legislation there are certain conversions to a house that fall under permitted development, meaning you can convert to a house without planning permission. They fall under GDPO (General Permitted Development) Order 1995, where a planning permission is not required. However, there are important exceptions to these rights, which are outlined below. … Read more »
A perfect match on Design for Me… for a bungalow conversion The clients, Pascal & Laura, posted their project to Design for Me, looking for a talented designer/architect for a bungalow conversion into a larger two storey family house. The work comprised a full renovation and extension to their bungalow in Sevenoaks, Kent. They registered their project with just… Read more »
