How to find building plots in London

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This week, Hugh, one of the architects on Design for Me, has offered up some top tips on finding building plots for a self-build house in London. However, much of the advice extends to other areas in the UK too.   Hugh, London based architect on Design for Me Self-build plots are notoriously difficult to find in… Read more »

Benefits of cellular / hollow clay blocks in house construction

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hollow clay blocks

Hollow clay blocks are not new. They have been a staple of the German construction industry (and elsewhere on the continent) for a long time. After decades of cavity-wall construction, the the UK market is now recognising hollow clay blocks as a viable alternative, and has been gaining popularity for its excellent thermal and acoustic… Read more »

Five Simple Decorating Tips for Homeowners in 2025

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Sponsored post If you want to redecorate this year and make your home more inspiring – more you – here are some simple tips to help.    1. Add an entertainment wall  Entertainment walls are a popular feature of many living rooms and are a fierce competitor of the classic feature fireplace as the key… Read more »

Are SIPs Right for Your Self-build?

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If you’re starting a self-build project you may already be aware that the key to a successful, stress-free project is thorough research and planning! Choosing the right building materials and construction method are important early decisions. This week, we’re here to give you a helping hand on choosing your construction method. Have you ever heard of SIPs? Here… Read more »

Building your own home

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Building your own home

One of the first things you’ll consider is finding a plot of land. This is a huge decision and has implications on the size, shape and style of building that would be suitable. For example, if you are planning a modern design in steel and glass, you should question how far the restrictions go in… Read more »

New planning policy for brownfield sites

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What is the new planning policy for brownfield sites? An amendment to the Town and Country planning act (General Permitted Development) in 2020 has allowed development of new build houses to benefit from fast-track planning on small brownfield sites. The official published guidance states that the following criteria should apply: ‘Owners of vacant and redundant… Read more »

Shipping Container Homes

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Shipping containers are used for, well shipping, but did you know that they could also be used as the skeleton of your next self-build or extension project? Shipping container homes are becoming the new eco-friendly alternative when it comes to building or renovating a home in the UK. Why not use one for your next extension?… Read more »

Earthship homes: sustainable living

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Introduction In a world grappling with environmental challenges and a growing need for sustainable living, Earthship homes have emerged as a unique and innovative solution. These eco-friendly, self-sustaining dwellings, also known as Earthship Biotecture, offer an alternative to conventional housing by utilising recycled materials and renewable energy sources. In this article, we will explore Earthship… Read more »

Revolutionising construction: the rise of the 3D printed house UK

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3d printed concrete

The construction industry has seen significant advancements over last century, from the introduction of steel-framed skyscrapers to the utilisation of sustainable building materials but one of the most promising innovations in recent times is the emergence of the 3D printed house UK. These cutting-edge structures are changing the way we think about construction, offering a… Read more »

10 of the best architects for self builds the UK

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Best self build architects

We’ve rounded up some of the best architects for house extension across the UK.   1. Javier & Catalina – Self build architect in Greenwich (click on their names above to view their full profile and shortlist them for your project) ‘Our architecture and design studio has a reputation that is rooted in craftsmanship, rigorousness and… Read more »