Central Heating Installation Costs – Know This Before Investing

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Installing a heating system at your house involves several variables. Depending on the following factors, your central heating installation cost may come anywhere between £3500 to £7000 for a standard house in the UK. Here’s what may dictate the cost of installing a heating system for your home:   The Top Factors Affecting Central Heating… Read more »

How Many Solar Panels Do I Need?

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solar panels

One of the most important questions when switching to solar is: “How many solar panels do I need?” For a detailed technical breakdown, we recommend this helpful guide from GreenMatch: How Many Solar Panels Do I Need? In this article, we’ll walk you through how to size your solar system and compare it with other… Read more »

Buying and Renovating a Forever Home: How to Design for Longevity

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When buying a house with plans to renovate, you’re not just investing in bricks and mortar. You’re shaping your future. For many homeowners, the dream is to create a forever home: one that’s high quality, energy efficient, low maintenance, and adaptable to life’s changes. The key to success is making informed decisions from day one…. Read more »

Designing Therapeutic Interiors: Creating Spaces That Support Wellbeing

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Designing Therapeutic Interiors: Creating Spaces That Support Wellbeing The spaces we spend time in have a powerful effect on how we feel. Whether it’s a softly lit room, the warmth of natural materials, or a welcoming chair in just the right spot, our surroundings can shape our mood, ease stress, and support a greater sense… Read more »

Using Polycarbonate as an Alternative to Glass

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Thinking of updating your home or garden? Clear polycarbonate sheets offer a practical and lightweight alternative to traditional glass. In certain spaces, they can make your project easier, safer, and more affordable without sacrificing natural light.   What is Polycarbonate and Why Use It? Polycarbonate is a strong, clear plastic material often used in place… Read more »

Tips for energy conservation without sacrificing comfort

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Energy conservation is essential for reducing costs and environmental impact. Fortunately, there are practical strategies to save energy while maintaining comfort. Here are some tips for energy conservation that will keep your home comfortable and reduce your energy bills.   Optimise Your Windows 1. Windows Thermal Insulation Improving your windows thermal insulation is a highly… Read more »

Should I be paying HMRC 5% VAT on renovations?

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You could well only need to pay HMRC 5% VAT on renovations in certain cases, but for most renovation works on houses and flats your builder will be required to charge you the standard VAT rate (20%). However, where the property has not been lived in for two years, your builder can reduce their rate… Read more »

How much does a planning application cost?

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Profile pics from Felix, Jamie, Richard and Mark, architects on DfM.

In England, the fee for a householder planning application for alterations/extensions to a single dwellinghouse from December 2023 is £258. This fee is payable to your local council for processing your planning application. Costs may vary slightly depending on the type of application and location, so it’s always a good idea to check with your… Read more »

6 ways to communicate your design dreams to your architect

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Communication is key to any successful design project, but if you’re embarking on a major renovation or refurbishment, it’s critical. Architectural projects can take months or even years in some cases, and they involve a lot of details, so it’s important to be crystal clear about your expectations. Clients, interior designers and architects all need… Read more »