Twelve ways an architect can help with your building project
Twelve ways an architect can help with your building project Having decided to embark on a home extension, what are the benefits to hiring an architect? Most people’s home is their most valuable asset. Tackling a home extension project can be an exciting but daunting prospect. “Unless your project is very simple, it makes sense to at least talk to an architect for advice before you get going,” states RIBA (the Royal Institute of British Architects). While it might seem like an additional...
Home extension: where to start?
Home extension: where to start? Why move when you can improve? With rising property prices, savvy homeowners are increasingly opting to stay put and extend the home they are living in to get extra space and value. But where do you begin? Is it worth it? Before splashing your cash, it’s worth considering how much value your home extension will add to your property. A local estate agent can give advice on whether you would get a good return on your investment. You may spend £30,000 converting a...
How do I get Planning Permission?
How do I get Planning Permission Applying to the council, filling in forms and neighbours – here’s a few of the things you need to know about once you have discovered you do need planning permission. You’ll see details on how to get planning permission on your local district or city council website on the planning pages. Most planning and building control applications are now submitted online via the Planning Portal (but your local planning authority will usually also have standard paper...
Top tips for home extensions Extending a kitchen-diner or converting the loft is a great way to create more space and value without the hassle of moving. But before you jump in and start knocking down walls, there is some important and even boring stuff you need to consider. We ask two experienced architects for their top tips for a successful home extension. # 1 List your priorities Start by deciding what your new space must have and what’s nice to have, said Natalie Skeete founder of Forest...
Designing an extension that blends old bones with a new addition
Designing an extension that blends old bones with a new addition Chartered architect Jan Maciag, RIBA, shares his top tips on designing an extension that works with your house Designing an extension to a house is tricky. Follow the original? Do something new? Across the UK, hundreds of thousands of older properties have been updated with a 21st century addition at the back. Typically, the extension spans the width of a house and achieves a large, open plan kitchen-dining-living space. So how do...
Contrasting extensions that pack a punch
Contrasting extensions that pack a punch Want to add a contemporary extension to a traditional home? Check out this inspiring selection of projects What does contemporary mean, exactly? The dictionary definition is “belonging to or occurring in the present.” In architecture, contemporary and modern are sometimes used interchangeably but they are different. Modern or modernist architecture emerged in the 1920s as a new, experimental architecture. Traditional materials of stone, brick and wood...
Glazed extensions work well with modern and period buildings. Here’s what you need to know. Sleek glass extensions add light and style to your home. The latest technological innovations mean structurally strong, energy efficient glazing can now be crafted in vast panes and incorporated into the design of your home. If a minimalist, frameless ‘glass box’ is not to your taste, other options include a side return extension that combines glazing for walls and roof with brick walls...
4 home improvements that will return the most value
4 home improvements that will return the most value If you’re in the process of planning and budgeting for significant home improvements, it’s worth considering the projects that will also add the most value to your property. The HomeOwners Alliance share the top 4 projects that will give you the biggest bang for your buck. Convert your loft It won’t come as a surprise that converting your loft has the potential to add the most value to your property, not to mention the most...
Double height living space – ideas and inspiration
Double height living space – ideas and inspiration From beautiful barn conversions to minimalist modern homes, stunning living spaces to set your imagination soaring Few architectural features offer the wow factor of double height spaces. Whether it’s an entrance hall or living room, they create inspiring, cathedral like spaces usually with striking natural light that can be a joy to inhabit. In home extensions, double height can also be used to create a focal point that draws the...
Clever ways to make your home feel at one with nature
Clever ways to make your home feel at one with nature Linking indoor and outdoor spaces is not a new design concept. John Brookes wrote his seminal book ‘Room Outside’ in the 1960s. That was 60 years ago. And while the range of products has increased exponentially, the role a garden can play hasn’t changed - an extension of our home. In this article we explore different ways to help you create a beautiful and functional indoor-outdoor space that complements your...
Stylish ideas for single storey extensions
Stunning ideas to inspire your project Building an extension is a great way to add more space and light to your home. Whether you’relooking to expand your kitchen, add a home office or build a garden room, here are some ideas and inspiration for your project. Invest in the design? Whether or not to hire an architect for your project is a key decision. For some, it may seem like an unnecessary expensive, especially if the budget is limited. All that may be required for a small extension is...
What can you build for your budget?
Building costs have soared since 2020 - so what can you build for your budget? Budgets can make or break a project whether you’ve got £25,000 or £700,000 to spend. Before you get carried away drawing up plans for that dream extension you’ve always wanted, it’s vital to work out roughly what you can afford to spend without going bankrupt. Whether you’re going to expand an existing room, add a new one or even an extra floor, everything comes down to the size of...
Kitchen trends 2025 – what’s hot?
Whether you’re planning a new kitchen or simply updating your existing one, you may well be looking for inspiration. From supersize fridge-freezers and hidden extractors to the latest colours and finishes, here’s what the experts say will be hot in the year ahead. Warm, natural colours Cabinet colour is one of the first things many people consider when looking for kitchen ideas. Associated with sunshine, happiness and positivity, yellow is an increasingly popular choice for the...
Find the best professional to turn your dream into reality Selecting an architect to extend or renovate your home is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Contrary to what some builders might say, they do a lot than draw pretty pictures. A good architect has the expertise and imagination to make the most of any space available and the skills to guide you through the planning process. They can tell you if a scheme is feasible and cost-effective, find the best local builders,...
How to get the best from builders’ quotes
Getting builders’ quotes is a key part of any project. Whether you plan a two-storey extension or bathroom refit, building work can be expensive and you’ll want to avoid spiralling costs. Getting builders’ quotes is a key part of any project. Building quotes and estimates often get mixed up, yet they are different. An estimate is an educated guess of how much a project might cost. By comparison, a builder’s quote is a fixed price for a job and should include a detailed...
Hiring and working with trades
How to find the right people for your building project The cowboy builder who asked for the full amount upfront and disappeared with a friend’s life savings at the start of a home extension. The plumber who came with stellar reviews from a check a trade website and whose botched bathroom job caused water to leak into the room below. The carpenter who was so flaky he put his foot through the hallway ceiling while in the attic, causing plasterwork to come crashing down on a brand-new wool...
Clever loft conversion layouts
Clever loft conversion layouts Planning to extend upwards? There are multiple possibilities, so before you start work take inspiration from these ideas Loft conversions are generally considered the most affordable type of extension because they can be built under the existing roof structure. Foundation works are rarely required. Yet they can be surprising complex: quirky geometry roof shapes, sloping ceilings and limited headroom. Added to this is the need for space for a staircase from below....
Factors to consider when choosing a dream kitchen From rustic farmhouse to modern minimalism and Scandi forest vibes, there are so many different styles it can be overwhelming to pick a new kitchen. Plus, buying a kitchen is a big investment, so it needs to be strong and built to last. So, what are the key factors to consider when choosing a kitchen? Focus on functionality & workflow When choosing a new kitchen, you might be focused on looks above all else whether it’s a supersize...
Get inspired with these lofty, light-filled interiors Building a new extension offers the perfect opportunity to incorporate a vaulted ceiling into your home design. But it’s not the only moment to consider this stunning feature. Whether you’re expanding into the loft, replacing the roof of an existing house or converting a barn, a vaulted ceiling can transform the look and feel of your home. While vaulted ceilings are impressive, the right cladding can further enhance their...
Look to the sun for more natural light
Designing with light Daylight is an essential element for any home, transforming spaces into bright, uplifting environments. By maximizing natural light, you can create a more inviting atmosphere, reduce reliance on artificial lighting, and enhance both mood and energy efficiency. Embracing this free natural resource not only boosts your home's aesthetic appeal but also promotes a healthier living space. Why is daylight important? In the UK, daylight is deemed so important that people have a...
Choose doors with wow factor for your home
Choose doors with wow factor for your home Rustic, reclaimed doors offer a unique charm. Alex, whose company specialises in doors made from reclaimed and engineered wood, emphasises their individuality. “A reclaimed internal door instantly adds charm and character. Each one is bespoke, with natural variations in colour, grain, knots and marking, making it a true wow factor piece in your interior scheme.” For added visual interest, choose from a variety of patterns and designs, such...
Solving exterior window condensation in spring and summer
Solving exterior window condensation in spring and summer In warmer months, you’ll be more likely to find condensation on the exterior of windows than on the inside. While it’s usually less concerning than interior condensation, it can still be an annoyance or lead to mold growth along your window’s exterior frame and sill. Here’s how to prevent it: Seal your windows with weatherstripping. Adding weatherstripping around your windows creates a tighter seal, reducing...
How to Get Rid of Condensation Inside Windows: Seasonal Guide
Constantly spotting wet streaks or droplets appearing on your windows? It’s not just irritating when you want to see outside. Regular condensation can actually be a sign that your windows need attention – or even lead to mold. Condensation varies by season, forming inside or outside windows. Let's understand why and explore seasonal solutions. Why do my windows have condensation on the inside? No matter the season, condensation forms when warm, humid air meets a cool surface –...
Window shopping: Timber or plastic? Double or triple glazed?
What makes a great window? Windows play a crucial role in any home extension or refurbishment, far beyond their basic functions of letting in light and providing views of the outside world. They influence the overall aesthetics, energy efficiency, ventilation, and even security of your house. Windows are a big house The existing style of your home Local planning authorities are likely to grant permission for projects that complement the existing design of your property. Gloucester City...
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