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 »

How to Plan a Wet Room in Your Home

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A wet room bathroom is a sleek and contemporary alternative to traditional bathrooms, where the shower space is seamlessly integrated into the rest of the room, without the need for a cubicle or bath. This open-plan layout not only creates a sense of spaciousness but also makes your bathroom more accessible and easier to clean…. Read more »

6 signs your house needs new windows

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As part of a home extension or renovation project, it’s very common to replace or upgrade your windows. Rolling all home improvements into a single job can help reduce the overall cost and inconvenience to you and your family. If your existing windows are in a poor state of repair, replacing them with new windows… Read more »

8 Ways to Make Your Home More Comfortable Year-Round

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Whether you’re renovating or just refining your current setup, it’s worth making your home feel comfortable in every season, without relying too heavily on energy use or major upgrades. These simple yet effective ideas will help you stay warm in winter, cool in summer, and stylish all year long.   1. Upgrade Your Insulation Insulation… Read more »

How to Clean Exterior Brick Walls – The Easy Way to Boost Kerb Appeal

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A clean brick wall can instantly boost your home’s kerb appeal and give it that just-renovated feel—without actually renovating. But over time, grime, algae and pollution can dull the colour and damage the surface of even the best-quality bricks. The good news? You don’t need harsh chemicals or fancy equipment. With a few simple tools… Read more »

Designing Accessible Interiors: A Free Room Planner for UK Architects

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Want to test inclusive layouts quickly and visually? Whether you’re designing a home, rental, or workspace, accessible interior design doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right tools, UK architects and designers can plan barrier-free spaces that meet Part M of the Building Regulations and BS 8300 standards, without needing expensive software.   In this… Read more »

How to find an affordable garden designer?

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Where can I find an affordable garden designer? Are you planning a garden overhaul this year? If your budget is over £5k a garden designer is usually well worth their fee as part of your budget. In this post we’ll help you find one that matches your budget. If it’s under £5k, we wrote an article… Read more »

How to Create a Boho-Chic Outdoor Space: Perfect for Patios, Terraces, and Balconies

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Looking to turn your patio, terrace, or balcony into a stylish bohemian retreat? Boho-chic outdoor design is all about relaxed vibes, natural textures, and layered, eclectic styling. Whether you’re working with a spacious garden patio or a compact city balcony, the right mix of materials, furniture and accessories can completely transform your outdoor space into… Read more »