What is ‘Right to Build’? Very simply, ‘Right to Build’ is a Government initiative (since 2016), encouraging more custom-build homes in the UK. It comes in response to the difficulty custom builders face in finding suitable land. ‘Right to Build’ gives custom builders the right to purchase a plot from a local council, who have an… Read more »
A simple self build cost calculator to help you estimate your self build cost. These figures have been updated in 2025 following recent price increases in construction costs, according to a survey of architects and designers on Design for Me. Image above by Sam, architectural designer on Design for Me. See their full profile… Read more »
Enhancing Construction Efficiency with Pre-Cast Retaining Walls In the world of construction, efficiency and durability are key. Pre-cast retaining walls are revolutionising the industry by offering both. These innovative retaining wall systems are not only cost-effective but also incredibly robust, making them ideal for a variety of applications from residential to commercial projects. What… Read more »
With the growing stressors of the housing crisis, high utility costs and global climate change, it’s become crucial for homeowners to lower their energy consumption and make wise choices when it comes to construction materials. Eco-friendly building materials, which are harmless to the environment during production, use and when it comes to their disposal, offer… Read more »
What is insulating concrete formwork (ICF)? Insulating concrete formwork consists of hollow polystyrene panels or blocks that fit into each other (like LEGO). Concrete is then poured into them to create a solid structure. The polystyrene elements form the shape of the walls, as well as providing insulation. Insulating concrete formwork on Grand Designs… Read more »
What’s the cheapest way to build a house in the UK? More and more people in the UK are considering building their own home, particularly as getting onto the housing ladder is becoming increasingly less affordable. There are new government initiatives to encourage self-building in an effort to help solve the nation’s housing crisis with… Read more »
Featured image above by Matthew, architect from Bristol. See more and shortlist his practice for your home project here: Matthew’s Design for Me profile Can you make changes to an existing planning permission? Yes, you can change an application that’s been granted. However, consideration should be given to the extent of the changes, as… Read more »
Now, which construction technique will you adopt for your self-build? Trying to find a solution that’s easy on the environment as well as your bank account? Cob construction may well be the answer. Homes made with straw, clay and soil may seem to be out of date in today’s modern architectural world. But there are some… Read more »
It’s a common assumption that terms are interchangeable, particularly in relation to new build housing. This is a simple guide to explain the difference between outline planning and permission in principle in basic terms, and which route might be the most suitable for your project. In short, they are essentially very similar. However, permission in… Read more »
Self build ideas – from Design for Me’s architects and designers Looking for some self build ideas and inspiration? you are in the right place! Here are some of the best self build designs from the architects and designers on Design for Me. Click on the images below to see their full profiles and see… Read more »
