Rising construction costs in the UK are now common knowledge. In the last two years, material shortages and supply chain issues due to the pandemic caused sharp rises in material costs. While this problem has subsided, other factors such as inflation, Brexit and the war in Ukraine have pushed prices up even further. Not only… Read more »
Do you need building control approval for an extension? If you’re planning to extend your home, you will need to comply with the building regulations. This is a legal requirement and, without formal approval and control, your local council could force you open up or re-build sometimes significant aspects of the project. It could even… Read more »
Section 106 agreements, the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and the new Infrastructure Levy are all similar in that they impose additional conditions on the developer, linked to planning permission. The new ‘Infrastructure Levy’, which was announced in the Levelling-up and Regeneration Bill (May 2022), is intended to broadly replace both Section 106 agreements and the… Read more »
Kitchen design ideas from Design for Me’s architects and designers Looking for some kitchen design ideas for your home renovation or extension project? Whether you opt for high end kitchen manufacturers and designers or a low cost (but chic!) option, you are in the right place. We have rounded up some of the best kitchen… Read more »
Loft conversions are a brilliant way to add more living space without extending your home. But because lofts sit right under the roof, they can sometimes feel dark and enclosed. The secret to transforming them into beautiful, welcoming rooms? Clever glazing. From skylights, glass balustrades and Juliet balconies, here is how to design a light-filled… Read more »
New for 2025: Based on survey data from over 100 practising residential architects across the UK, this guide provides clear, current cost benchmarks for hiring an architect and budgeting for home extension. What You’ll Learn Typical construction cost benchmarks for home extensions How much architects charge Typical consultant and engineer fees to factor in… Read more »
Skylights – inspiration from Design for Me’s architects and designers Skylights are often a key ingredient to a well designed, light and stylish extension. Not only can they bring in swathes of natural light, they can provide an opportunity for an interesting architectural gesture. Click on the images below to see their full profiles and… Read more »
Folding doors, bifold doors, sliding doors, concertina doors… what’s the difference? Folding doors, bifold doors, concertina doors, patio doors… there seem to be so many names for these glazed doors that open out to your garden but essentially they mean the same thing! Fully glazed doors have become incredibly popular and are a bit of… Read more »
Q: Do you need planning permission for a side return extension? Very possibly not! This is such a common project in UK towns and cities, for good reason. Many Victorian terraces have this strip of garden space that is so often dark and under-used. Claiming this space back internally can transform a kitchen or living space, without… Read more »
Why do I need a flood risk assessment and what is it? If you are applying for planning permission, you may be need to provide a flood risk assessment with your application. This demonstrates the flood risk for your proposed development. When is a flood risk assessment required? A flood risk assessment is required… Read more »
