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 »
Posts Categorized: Extensions
Kitchen design ideas and inspiration
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 »
How to Make Your Loft Conversion Light and Spacious
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 »
How Much Does an Architect Cost in the UK? [2025 Guide]
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 – ideas and inspiration
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 »
Exterior sliding / folding doors – design inspiration
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 »
Do you need planning permission for a side return extension?
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 »
Flood risk assessment for a planning application
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 »
Architect’s tips: How to design the best house extension layout
To design the best house extension layout, it should not be seen as a stand-alone project. To make the most of this extra space, you and your architect should consider the best layout for the entire house. But don’t worry – this doesn’t mean you will need to rethink the entire existing layout! Working within… Read more »
Can you extend planning permission?
Can you pay to extend planning permission? You used to be able to pay to extend planning permission, but this has not been the case for many years now. Your two options now are to either: Submit a new application Make sure all the planning conditions are discharged and commence development* before the permission expires…. Read more »
