Houzz

Planning Permission is just the beginning when it comes to the paperwork involved in renovating. And it can all add up. Ask an Architect: What Are the Hidden Costs of My Renovation Project?

It often doesn’t take long after you settle into a home before you start dreaming of having more room – whether it’s because there’s a new addition to the family, you’ve decided to work from home or you’re simply hankering after more space or light. And as moving isn’t always an option, many of us […]

Apart from extensions, loft conversions are the best way to gain another bedroom, or bedroom and en suite, or even two bedrooms in your property. But which is the right type of conversion for you – and your budget? Arranged loosely in cost order, from cheapest to most expensive, here are some of the things […]

There’s so much more to a conservatory these days than it being a mere extension to your ground floor. Designs can be sleeker and more modern. The use of space is cleverer than ever and challenges preconceptions. The contemporary conservatory can add something special to your property. This is true specially if it’s designed to […]

What Can an Architect Do For You? When speaking to a new client, it makes it easier to discuss a project if the client knows as much as possible about what an architect does and where we, as a profession, can really add value. Here we listed the top 10 things to know about the […]

If you’re thinking about undertaking a project to let in as much natural light as possible, there are some key points to consider. Today’s glass technology makes for an incredibly strong and durable material – it’s an essential building component – although it does have its limitations. It’s also had some incredible engineering behind it, […]

Flummoxed over the fundamental legalities of your renovation? It’s better to be safe than sorry. There’s a range of different regulations to get your head around, depending on whether your property is new, old or listed; standalone, overlooked or part of a larger building. It’s especially good to read up on this if you’re considering […]

It’s easy to create a lot of storage space in a sizeable property, but a great designer will also be able to slot clever storage into small, irregular spaces while challenging the traditional way of thinking about what ‘storage’ is. Use these ideas as a jumping-off point for your own projects in order to squeeze […]

Party walls are the structure that you and your neighbour – next door, upstairs or downstairs – share. Fences also come under this category. Because our cities in particular have so many adjoining buildings, the Party Wall etc Act 1996 was put in place to make it easier to agree on changes. Party Wall Awards […]

As the outside air temperature drops, the effectiveness of your home’s heating system will become more apparent. If yours isn’t keeping you warm enough, there are numerous different heating systems available, as well as several ways you can improve the insulation of your home to ensure it retains heat for longer. Some solutions are more […]

Just moved home or about to renovate your living and kitchen space? The trend for opening up a property – removing walls to get that amazing feeling of space, as well as making your mark on your home or a new house – continues to grow. However, going open-plan can be a Building Regulations minefield; […]

The short answer is: ‘Yes, you can make your home more ecofriendly.’ Although some ecologically beneficial changes are easier done than others, and some would only be fully successful if you were building from scratch, there’s still plenty to consider, whatever kind of property you have. For example, most lights can be switched to LEDs, […]

Aquariums are fascinating, mesmerising and relaxing to watch; so much so that they can calm you down after a long, hard day. Read about our tips for 13 of the Best Home Aquariums. With so many different varieties of fish and plants to choose from and combine, they provide both contrast and splashes of colour […]

Collaboration and seeking out specialist skills, facilities or experience are key to getting the best job done in your home. Here are some of the rules to remember when searching for and briefing a builder for your project to help ensure good-quality design and great results. Ask an Expert: 9 Rules Architects Live By When […]

There are the obvious reasons why one might choose an architect – to do the technical drawings required, to assist with planning permission, or to supervise your builder and manage the building contract. But there are also other, perhaps less obvious, ways a good architect will enhance your project and help to steer you through […]

Many of our homes feature décor and furniture that’s a real blend of different styles and periods. Whether it’s mixing old and new architecture, incorporating an inherited family heirloom, weaving in pieces from trips abroad or simply contrasting colours, it’s rare not to find some form of experimentation in people’s homes nowadays. Ask an Expert: […]