Image above from Easigrass Think artificial grass and you might immediately think of greengrocer shelves or 1970s football pitches, but the technology to make it look and feel real has come on leaps and bounds in the past few years. Wanting to spend time enjoying their gardens rather than tending to them, more and more… Read more »
Rural retreats and barn conversion ideas Every day, here at Design for Me, we match up people planning barn conversion projects with the best residential architects from all over the UK. We thought it was about time we showcased some of the amazing projects from architects on Design for Me to give you some inspiration… Read more »
Open stairways to living areas – fire safety (Part B) considerations If you want your ground floor to be totally open plan, there are key consideration in terms of Building Regulations are the associated fire safety issues. Part B of the Approved Documents gives guidance on how to meet the Building Regulations in England and… Read more »
As a general starting point a basic bathroom renovation cost upwards of £5,000+VAT. This is a starting cost for modest re-decoration, finishes and sanitary ware, and retaining the existing plumbing and electrics. There are are a few considerations outlined below that will increase this cost, such as the condition of the existing bathroom, whether you… Read more »
Modern Italian furniture is synonymous with sophistication, innovation, and timeless style. Known for its seamless blend of sleek lines, premium materials, and artistic craftsmanship, Italian furniture effortlessly bridges contemporary aesthetics with classic design elements. Whether you’re furnishing a penthouse or a compact urban apartment, these pieces bring a perfect balance of functionality and style to… Read more »
Can I add two storeys to a house without planning permission? Thanks to a planning amendment in 2020, it is now possible to extend upwards, even adding a double storey extension to your home, using the prior approval route. However, this permitted development right is not applicable to all properties. Design above by Simon,… Read more »
Home renovation and extension architects in Brighton and Sussex If you’re planning a house extension, renovation or new self-build, finding the right architect can be the critical first step. We’ve compiled some of the best residential architects in Brighton and the rest of Sussex to give you a starting point, and hopefully provide a little inspiration too…. Read more »
An Article 4 Direction is a planning tool used by local authorities in the UK to remove or restrict permitted development rights in specific areas or properties. Permitted development rights allow homeowners to undertake certain minor alterations, extensions, or changes of use without the need for full planning permission. When an Article 4 Direction is… Read more »
Architects’ fees calculator As a basic rule of thumb for private residential projects, a residential architect typically charges between 10-12% of the construction cost for full architectural services. Use our architect cost calculator below to estimate how much your architect may cost. We have also developed an extension cost calculator, which you can use here…. Read more »
Extending your home can be an excellent way to add space and value without moving. The good news is that many house extensions fall under permitted development, meaning they do not require planning permission. However, there are specific rules and exceptions to be aware of. In this guide, we’ll break down the key points about… Read more »