Author: wahid

Glass Box Extension
Extensions

Glass Box Extension: A Simple Guide For Beginners

You can use glass boxes as a genuine structure for extensions such as a conservatory. These glass box extensions provide a great external view of your property’s interior. They can be built using aluminium for support section. However, it is necessary to make them as slim as possible to minimize sightlines. Furthermore, it ensures that maximum light can come inside the extension. With a simple glass box extension, you can increase floor space in the house and bring more natural light in your property during daylight.

Most of the people think that glass is meant for roof lights, doors, and windows. However, a frame of aluminium allows you to hold planes of glass together to make not only a door but the whole face of your property.

Energy Performance of Glass Box Extension

A glass box extension provides great energy performance. The argon gas and Low-E coatings ensure high levels of insulation. Furthermore, you can combine it with new glass coatings and treatments such as heat-reflective specifications which ensures better insulation. So, you can relax as with glass box, you do not need to worry about heat loss in winter.

Planning Permission For Glass Box Extension

Whenever we talk about any extension or conversion, it is important to know whether it requires a planning application or not. In some cases, no matter the extension comes under PD (Permitted Development) you still need planning permission such as in conservation areas. Basically, you need to show the local authority that you will follow all the rules and it will not affect the aesthetics of the original building. If your house is not situated in a conservation area, then your home extension can be covered by the government’s Permitted Development Rights. If you have doubt, then you can contact the local planning authority for clarification.

Multiple Functionality

One of the biggest assets of the fully glazed box extension is design flexibility. You can not just ignore its “wow factor”. It does not matter whether you are using this extension at the rear of your living space or to connect multiple parts of your home. When it comes to functionality, there are lots of options to consider. You can use sliding doors in your extension to provide access to a terrace or you can have ventilation openings.

Glazing

As we mentioned earlier that flexibility in design is what makes a glass box extension a great improvement to your home. One of the problems that you can face is the greenhouse effect. However, you can use a solar control coating to prevent UV rays as they can make the space too hot. But you can still enjoy the natural light inside your home.

Well, it also provides an external view of your interior but using a glass box structure, you can avoid others to see inside.

Last Words!

Adding a glass box extension is a great way to improve some living space while enjoying the exterior view. There are lots of coating options for the glass that you can use to make it how you like it. You can use openings for ventilation or can use slide doors for access. A solar control coating will reflect UV rays to avoid the greenhouse effect while letting natural light from every angle.

oak frame extension
Uncategorised

Oak Frame Extension: Things A Homeowner Needs to Know

Oak frame extension is a great way to add some character to your home. However, there are lots of things a homeowner needs to know before starting work.

We know that the timber frame is a really good choice, oak is also popular for new build homes. There are lots of benefits of oak frame extension. One of the things that we like in oak frame is flexibility. There are lots of properties in which oak frame extensions suits including postwar homes to cottages. Furthermore, it brings character to your new extension.

Designing

One of the most cost-effective routes is to approach an architectural service provider or an oak frame company who is able to provide in-house design service. It is better to approach a company as it knows all the limitations, possibilities and challenges during the construction. It is important to make sure that it does not require any extra work to accommodate the frame. Like any other house extension, it is essential that the design relates to the existing house.

Planning Permission for Oak Frame Extension

Just like any other extension, you do need to comply with planning rules. There are some extensions that do not require planning permission as they fall under permitted development. You need to consult with local authorities about the style, size and requirements of the policy.

How to Build Oak Frame Extension

Most of the homeowners work with a company to build the extension. These companies can build and supply the frame. Nowadays, the oak frame is encased within a system such as timber panels or SIPs. The reason to use these materials is to meet thermal efficiency requirements.

Cost of Oak Frame Extension

Oak is a premium building material and hence more expensive. An estimate cost of oak frame extension about £2.500 square meter.

Well, there are various other factors that affect the cost of an extension and conversion. One of the factors is the price oak. I mean oak is expensive and roof rafter made of oak costs more than softwood. Another thing is the amount of glazing which impacts the cost. Furthermore, the complexity of the project and the location also affects the budget.

Things to Consider

If you want the work to go smoothly then the communication between you, builder and the oak frame company plays an important role. It helps keep the project on track and avoid long delays. There is a lot of groundwork required before the delivery of the frame.

Another important thing is the access of a crane which is required to erect both the SIPs and the frame. If access is limited then you need to find solutions. You need to keep in mind that is versatile and has some limitations. That is why; we will recommend you to get help from an expert who has experience with oak frame extensions.

bungalow loft conversion
Loft Conversion

Things to Know About Bungalow Loft Conversion

We all want to convert extra space in our home into something usable. There is no doubt that loft in a house eats up lots of space. What if you need bungalow loft conversion to make this space livable for your family?

Cravings for more living space in the house leads us to loft conversion ideas. Why you should not want more space when you can!

Most of the bungalow owners in the UK choose to convert the loft. The reason is that it is rather an easy and cheap home improvement project. It does not mean that it is too much easy but compared to other it is. Furthermore, you are going to need the help of an expert architectural service provider.

So, what you need for a bungalow loft conversion? Do you need planning permission? What is the cost of the project? We will discuss all of these questions in details.

Planning Permission for Bungalow Loft Conversion

Normally, you do not need planning permission for a simple bungalow loft conversion. However, in some cases, you do need it if:

  • The area is more than 50 square meters.
  • The window in the loft is placed above the floor.
  • Furthermore, the dormer is out of the plane. It should be placed within 20-centimeter square of the eaves.
  • If your building is listed or your house exists in a conservation area.

In the conditions mentioned above, you need to get planning permission. Hence, it is best to consult with the local authority before you start the conversion. Whether you need to apply for planning application or not, you still need the building regulations certificate for the conversion.

Planning

A bungalow loft conversion is a lengthy process and hence it is important to do proper planning. So, you can avoid any unnecessary delays during construction. For this, we will recommend you to hire an expert for the job. You need someone who has experience with such conversions and know all the requirements in your area. There are some rules and regulations and an expert can help you with the planning.

Cost of Bungalow Loft Conversion

The loft conversion cost depends on various factors such as design and area. The kind of design you choose determines the cost of the conversion. If you go with a simple design then you can expect the cost anywhere between £10,000 to £15,000.

On the other hand, if you choose to go with an advanced and complicated design then the cost can be double or triple. However, there are some ways in which you can cover the cost of a loft conversion within your budget.

Final Words

Well, as you can see that there lots of rules and regulations for any conversion or house extension. That is why; the help of an expert in the field is a must so you can avoid any delays during the work. Furthermore, they can help you by providing with designs that suit your requirements and budget. So, anytime you want a bungalow loft conversion, do not hesitate to call for help.

attic conversions
Conversions

Attic Conversions: Things Homeowners Should Know

So, you want more livable space in your home. Well, do not worry as we got you covered. Moving house is not easy especially when you have emotional ties with your home. Attic conversions are one of the ways for homeowners to increase living space. The attic is not like a basement where you have major appliances. Furthermore, it is a quiet place in the home which makes it suitable for a room. You can use this space for many different purposes such as TV rooms, home offices, bedrooms, and TV rooms.

Before you start converting the attic, there are certain things that you need. Depending on the municipality, these requirements can vary.

Attic Conversions

We cannot cover every building code in the article. You can discuss these things with your architectural service providers, contractors, and local council. In this article, we are going to cover some important codes that affect most of the attic conversions projects.

Area of Your Attic

The area of an attic must justify the same requirements that govern a room in the rest of the house. To convert it into a room, an attic should have at least 7 square meters. Furthermore, the ceiling height must be at least 2.4 m.

Openable Area and Windows

The openable area must not exceed 8% of the total usable floor area. So, let’s say your attic has 100 square meters. Then the area for windows must not exceed 8% of 100 square meters (8 square meters).

Ceiling Height

For attic conversions, you must have enough ceiling height. In the UK, the ceiling height must be 2.4 m or higher for you to convert it under the permitted development rights.

Heating for Attic Conversions

As you are going to convert the attic into a livable space, so it is important to maintain a steady temperature. You need to check your heating system, normally, homeowners do not need to extend the heating system. Although, they need to make sure that the roof and walls are insulated properly.

Safe staircase

One of the challenging thing in attic conversions projects is access. Most of the attics are not designed to be lived in as their main purpose is storage. Most of the houses have pull-down stairs for access. But if you want to convert the attic, then you must have 36 inches wide stairs.

Your existing stairs may not conform to the requirements. That is why; we will recommend you to discuss with the local authorities before moving forwards. Furthermore, your attic must have an emergency exit. You can visit the government website for more information.

We know that stairs can take lots of space in the house. It is one of the important things and hence we have covered in another article. You can check it for more guidance.

Loft Conversion Cost 2020
Conversions, Loft Conversion

How Much Does A Loft Conversion Cost in 2022?

Moving house is a tiresome and expensive, hence it is better to take a look at loft conversion cost in 2021 before making any decision.

Moving house means you need to sell your existing house and buy a new one. But there are lots of things that make this process expensive. Stamp duty bills alone can cost tens of thousands of pounds. Instead, you can convert your loft to get that extra space that you are looking for. There are also many other ways to improve living space in the house.

Converting a loft is an easy and cost-effective way. In this article, we will discuss the loft conversion cost in 2021.

Loft Conversion Cost in 2021

The cost depends on various factors such as floor area, access, structure and typically ranges from £20K to 60K. If you are going to make significant changes then this cost can be higher. Furthermore, recent research found that a loft conversion with a double bedroom and bathroom can add 20% to the value of your property.

When it comes to planning permission, converting a loft does not require it. However, there are some limits that you cannot exceed. In such cases, you need to planning permission. It is better to check the government website and visit the local council for more information on the rules.

Ways to CoverLoft Conversion Cost in 2021

There are different ways in which you can fund loft conversion.

Most of the people prefer to cover the cost with their savings. But some people do not have money and want extra space for their family. For such people, there are some options such as remortgaging. Although, they need to make sure that they can afford higher mortgage payments.

If you are one of them who owns an old house then you may have a problem. Because many lenders impose an age limit. Furthermore, you need to show them that you have a stable income and a retirement plan.

Planning and Professional Fees

If you do not require planning permission, then you need to obtain a certificate of lawfulness which will cost you £86. But if you need a planning application then you can expect to pay £172. Furthermore, you also need a party wall agreement in case of an attached house with your neighbours. This party wall agreement costs from £700 to £1000 per neighbour.

Other costs include building control fees which are around £500 + VAT. The homeowner needs to pay this fee to the local authority. It is required to check the work and issue a regulation certificate.

If you are working with a design & build company then the cost is included in the quote. However, in the case of an architect, you need to pay three to seven per cent of the construction cost for the design fees. Other costs include £2,500 to £4,000 for the planning drawings and the same for the construction drawings.

How Long Does It Take?

Typically, converting a loft takes four to six weeks and can be done without disturbing the existing house. However, there are some projects in which you need to remove the roof, such projects can cost higher. Loft conversion cost in 2021 is still cost-effective and cheap compared to other home improvement projects cost.

Single Story Extension: How to Plan
Extensions

Single Story Extension: How to Plan

Are you planning a single story extension and want the process to go smoothly? Then you are in the right spot. As in this article, we will cover this topic from planning to costing. The first step is to verify whether you need planning permission or you can do the construction under permitted development rights. After that, you need to find a build team and good planning to make sure the extension completes on time.

Planning Permission for Single Story Extension

You need planning permission for a single story extension if:

  • It covers more than half the area of surrounding
  • It extends towards a road.
  • You need to increase the height of the building
  • Six meters from the rear of an attached house.
  • You have a detached house, then you need planning permission if it extends eight meters from the rear
  • The extension is taller than four meters.
  • You are using different materials than you use in the house.

The limits clearly indicate that if you are planning a large extension then you need planning permission. However, you also need to keep in mind that a larger single story extension is more cost-effective.

With that said, you also need to know that reducing the size of the garden can affect the value of your property.

Permitted Development Rights for Single Story Extension

You can also build an extension under permitted development rights in which you do not need planning permission. To start building under these rights, you need to apply for a lawful development certificate from a local council. You can build without it, but you still need to provide paperwork to prove that you meet all the requirements.

You can visit the official website of the government for the PD criteria. We will recommend you to check with your local authority to verify the information. In some areas, there are some unique restricted rights such as conservation areas.

How to Find an Architectural Service Provider?

Finding a local architectural service provider is easy in the UK, but finding a good one requires some homework. You need to find someone who can carry out small-scale work. Furthermore, someone who can demonstrate similar house extensions that impress you.

Find a firm that is located near to your house. Some designers do not charge any fee for initial visits.

Find A Builder

If you are working with a design & build company then you do not need to find a builder. These firms can carry out all the work from the start. But if you do need to find a builder then ask for recommendations. You need someone who can help you find reliable contractors and have experience with planning. Bear in mind that experience is a must with this kind of project. After the conversation, you and the builder can agree on a timeline for the project completion.

Project Management

If you are not sure or do not have time to manage the project then you can appoint a project manager. The person will help you with planning and building a single story extension. If you are sure that you run it yourself, there are lots of resources where you can get help. Furthermore, doing so will help you understand the process and can help you save hassle and money

kitchen extension cost
Extensions

Kitchen Extension Cost: Build, Professional Fees, Planning

The numbers that we are going to provide for kitchen extension cost can vary depending on the project. But one thing that is going to benefit is the newly converted space. No matter, you need a conservatory, single storey, or side return kitchen extension, this home improvement project will let you enjoy open plan living. Anyhow, you need to make sure that the investment you are making outweighed the value it adds to your property.

How Much Does A Kitchen Extension Cost?

The cost of any extension or improvement to your property depends on how much work you plan to do. You should also need to add the professional fees and build cost to the budget. In some cases, you also need to get planning permission and building regulations approval so keep these things in mind too. Furthermore, there are other things too such as the cost of decoration and flooring.

In this article, we will share all the expert tips and information that will help you get an estimate of kitchen extension cost

Kitchen Extension Build Costs

If you are looking for a single-storey extension, it can cost you around £1,500 per square meter. On the other hand, an individual extension including windows and doors will cost between £1,800 to £2,500 per square meter. If you want high specification finishes then the cost can increase up to £3,000.

In some cases, you may need to make changes in the foundation of the house. A structural engineer can help you with estimating the foundation costs.

Kitchen Extension Professional Fees Cost

The designer will charge a three to seven per cent fee of the overall build cost. You will also need planning drawings for the planning permission which can cost around £2,400 to £3,600. You also need to pay for the survey of your house which will cost you between £500 to £1,500.

Construction drawings are also required for the construction and building regulations approval. The cost of these drawings is the same as planning drawings. The fees of a structural engineer range from £500 to £1,000. You need one to design the roof, foundations and any large span openings.

Planning Permission

Whether you need planning permission or not depends on your specific project. Generally, the planning application fees is around £200. However, it can vary depending on your project and where you live. There are other kitchen extension costs too such as;

  • Tree Report which can cost £200 upwards
  • Flood risk assessment, if you are living in a flood zone and can cost £600 upwards
  • Depending on your area, some local authorities require ecology report which costs £720 upwards

How Much It Adds to the Value of Your Home

When you are adding an extension to your home, you are investing money. So, you need to make sure that the investment you are making adds value to your property.

A single-storey kitchen extension can add 5 to 100 per cent value to the property. While planning an extension, you need to make sure that what you are spending is not going in vain. You can speak to a local estate agent to get an accurate idea. You can also ask for advice about which type of extension adds more value to your property.

single storey extension cost
Extensions

How Much Does A Single Storey Extension Cost in 2022?

Adding an entirely new storey to your home is a brilliant way to introduce more living space for your growing family. A single storey extension allows you to add a new home office, kitchen space. Furthermore, it is a cost-effective alternative to moving your house. In this article, we will discuss the single storey extension cost.

There are various ways to break down the cost. We will first discuss some rough costs of the project.

The cost of construction depends on the results you want to achieve. Depending on that, it can cost you around £1,500 to £1,900 per square meter for basic and £1,900 to £2,200 per square meter for a quality build. But if you are looking for excellent quality then expect to pay around £2,200 to £2,400 per square meter for a single storey.

The single-story extension cost of 4m x 5m would be £30,000 for basic quality, £38,000 for good quality, and £45,000 for excellent quality. You should keep in mind that it does not involve the cost of interior fit-out, VAT, and professional fees. If you include them too then a single storey extension cost would be between £40,000 and £60,000.

The cost can also vary depending on the area, for example, if you are living in London then it will cost significantly higher. However, it usually costs less than a 2-storey extension as it needs less steelworks and substantial foundations. On the other hand, building a double-storey extension cost less per square meter.

Cost of Interior Fit-Out

The single storey extension cost of interior fit-out depends on the rooms. However, these rough estimates can help you:

The cost of a new kitchen is around £5,000 to £20,000. If you go for high quality then the cost will increase significantly.

Depending on the fittings, the cost of a new bathroom is around £4,500 to £11,000.

When it comes to the flooring, you should add £25 to £100 per square meter to your budget.

Sliding or Bi-fold doors will cost you £1,400 to £2,200 per linear meter. It is the best option to bring it more natural light inside the home.

If you adding an additional storey to the house, then you will need to upgrade the heating system as well. It requires work by a plumber for no more than three days and will cost you around £150 per day. It does not involve the cost of the material.

The cost of underfloor heating varies. You will also need to install a new boiler to meet the demand of water-fed underfloor heating.

Project Fees

Normally, the fee of an architect is three to seven per cent of the construction cost. If the cost of the project is £60,000 then the fee of an architect will be around £1,600 to £4,200.

If you also need a structural engineer then add more £1,000 to £2,000 in your budget. You will also need planning drawings from the architectural service provider for planning Permission.

Single Storey Extension Cost For Planning Permission

The fee for planning permission in England is £206. You will also need the certificate of lawful development which will cost you £103. Bear in mind that the fee for discharging planning conditions is £34. That is why; it is important to apply with an architect or builder who is familiar with the local planning authority.

Top Architecture Firms UK
Architecture & Building

2022 Top Architecture Firms in the UK

Who does not need the help of an architecture firm to help them build their dream home? Whether you are building a new home or an extension, the architecture firms make the process easy for you. They help you with design, Planning Permission, Building Regulations. In this article, we will discuss the list of top architecture firms in the UK.

Having that in mind, an architecture company is your best friend when it comes to building your dream home. That is why; it is important to hire an expert in the industry. You see, the house is not just something like furniture. It is where you are going to live with your family. It is really important to have a house according to your needs and requirements.

There are many top architecture firms in the UK, but we will only share the top 5. So, without further ado, let’s get started.

Zaha Hadid Architects

Zaha Hadid is one of the best architects in the UK. She is the first woman to be awarded the Pritzker Architecture Prize. 

She got her early education in an American Institute in Beirut, Lebanon. After that, in 1972, she went to London to study architecture. In 1983, she gained international recognition due to her great architectural work. She died in 2016, but still, Zaha Hadid Architects is one of the UK’sUK’s top architecture firms.

Foster and Partners

Foster and Partners are the 2nd top architecture firms in the UK. It is an international studio for integrated design and architecture. The practice is led by Norman Foster and gain recognition by constricting high-profile glass-and-steel buildings.

Norman Foster establish the studio back in 1967 after leaving Team 4. In 1992, the firm was named Norman Foster and Partners Ltd. After few years, in 1999 they renamed it to Foster & Partners Ltd.

BDP

Building Design Partnership Ltd, also known as BDP, is a firm of engineers and architects. They are providing their services, not in the United Kingdom but internationally. George Grenfell-Baines found this company in 1961 with architects John Wilkinson and Bill White, and eight associate partners.

BDP was an experiment of multidisciplinary working and profit-sharing back in 1941 by Grenfell-Baines. This company is associated with a variety of large public and private projects.

Allford Hall Monaghan Morris

Allford Hall Monaghan Morris comes at no.4 on our list of top architecture firms in the UK. It is also an international firm based in Clerkenwell, London. Simon Allford, Paul Monahan, Peter Morris, Jonathan Hall form it in 1989. Since then, this firm has worked on my education, housing, offices, arts, and healthcare projects. In 2015, it received the RIBA Stirling Prize award.

Allies and Morrison LLP

At no.5 comes Allies and Morrison LLP, which works in urban planning. The firm has two offices: London, Cambridge. Furthermore, it is one of the largest architectural firms in Britain and founded in 1984. They cover various services such as architecture, renovation, and conservation of historic buildings, planning, research, consultation, and interior design. One of the notable projects is the redevelopment of the Royal Festival Hall. Furthermore, they redeveloped King’sKing’s Cross Central, BBS Media Village, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. They worked throughout the UK and in the Middle East, North America, Africa, Ireland, and India.

Sheppard Robson

Sheppard Robson is another top architecture firm in the UK founded in 1938 by Sir Richard Herbert Sheppard. The office is located in London, Glasgow, and Manchester. This firm is one of the pioneers of concrete shell structure, but now they are the sustainable architecture leader. Richard Sheppard was a skilled and talented designer. They made their first success in 1944 with the Jicwood Bungalow, where they used material from aircraft manufacture.

Pro Arkitects

Pro Arkitects based in Ashford, Kent, is a design & build a company specializing in helping its clients with all their construction needs. They have recently won Multi-disciplinary Design & Build Studio of the Year 2021- Kent. As a Design & Build company, it provides all the services starting from the design to building the building such as interior, architecture, structural, Planning, Research, consultation, etc. They are currently providing their services in Kent, Sussex, Essex, and London.

Small Loft Conversion
Uncategorised

A Simple Guide for Small Loft Conversion

Converting a loft is one of the most favourite home improvements in the UK. The reason is that you do not need to lose any area to get some more living space in the hose. Furthermore, it is the cheapest alternative to moving a house. Well, not every loft is suitable and hence we are here to guide people who want small loft conversion.

Some of the houses have a too small or too large loft, which is very tricky to turn into a living area. However, they can be converted but what is important is that they can justify the expense of conversion.

You do not need to worry as we are here to help you with small loft conversion. You can turn them into a bedroom, home office or a space that provides a fabulous view of the neighbourhood.

Building Regulations

To convert a loft, It must have at least 2.4 meters head height. You can easily measure it using a measuring top. You need to keep in mind that conversion is also going to reduce the head height. Because the roof will require plastering and panelling. If you have 2.4 meters of head height then after conversion you will be left with about two meters.

Dormer Windows for Small Loft Conversion

Dormer windows are one of the best options for converting a loft into living space. Furthermore, it can add some extra headroom that adds character to space. The loft room is at the highest point of a house so having a window provides a great view. If you have more space in the loft then you can fit right against a bed for a morning wakeup bathed in sunlight.

Use Skylights In Small Loft Conversion

It is good to have natural light inside the house and hence skylights are the best fit. It allows more natural light inside the loft and make it bright and airy. Skylights have upward facing angle and hence the loft ceiling is the best place to install them. The skylights allow more light during the day compared to other alternatives.

Extra Storage

A small loft conversion does not mean that you cannot store your things. However, it is best to keep the minimum things to keep the loft clean.  But sometimes some few extra things inside a small space make it looks large. So, it is good to have some clever storage solutions to hide all the clutter.

Furniture

People with small loft conversion thinks that they need small furniture as they do not have enough space. But sometimes it is good to have a king-sized bed or giant sofa inside the loft. However, it is important to keep the loft stairs in mind while buying new furniture.