Tag: architect

Extensions

Building an upwards extension in 2022: new permitted development rules

17th January 20220

In 2020, you might have heard about some of the changes that were made to the permitted development rights. These changes mean that you could do more to your property without planning permission. Since that point, additional information has come to light that might affect how you proceed with your project. In addition, here’s everything to know about permitted development in 2022.  

What is permitted development rights?  

Permitted development rights are a national grant of planning permission. Which allow certain building works and changes of use to be carried out without having to make a planning application.  

What is an upwards extension?  

An upwards extension is basically adding more storeys to your home. However, with the new rule’s homeowners, developers, and landlords can build upwards and add up to two storeys without the need for planning permission. The government has enforced this rule because there is a housing shortage and they are eager to not concrete over green space.   

Homes that were excluded from the changes –  

  • Listed buildings  
  • Flats or maisonettes 
  • Some new developments  
  • Homes within Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland. 

The new permitted development rights for an upwards extension means that the following buildings can add a maximum of two storeys:  

  • Detached commercial buildings  
  • Detached houses (to build new flats) 
  • Houses (if the new storeys are to extend a home) 
  • Terraced/ semi-detached commercial buildings  
  • Terraced/ semi-detached (to build new flats) 
  • Detached, purpose-built blocks 

Benefits of building upwards –  

Firstly, creating new homes by adding extra storeys on an existing building will help homeowners, developers, and landlords, maximise the space they own. By extending upwards you will also not be cutting into your garden space.  

Which is a good thing if you live in the city because the greener areas you have the less pollution there is.  

Building upwards is cheaper than a regular extension. This is because you don’t need to buy roofing materials for the first floor and you don’t need foundation materials for the second storey.  

Upwards extension

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Garage Conversion

Garage conversion 2022: all you should know before you start

17th January 20220

Firstly, a garage conversion is one of the quickest and most affordable routes to adding floor space. These types of projects can often be completed in a little over a week. In addition, many people often just use their garages as a place to put their cars or as a storage room. However, maybe it’s a great time to consider converting your garage and making it into a valuable asset.  

Is your garage suitable for a conversion?  

A garage conversion is classed as a change of use, so it will require building regulations approval.  

To comply with building regs your garage conversion must:  

  • Be structurally sound 
  • Have a damp proof course 
  • Have all of the electrics tested 
  • Be moisture proofed, with good ventilation 
  • Have been fire proofed and have escape routes 
  • Have wall, floor, and loft insulation so that its energy efficient 

Will you need planning permission to convert your garage?  

Most garage conversions will usually fall under permitted development, meaning that planning permission is not required. However, it is still best to check with your local authority, because there is a small percentage that will require planning permission.  

If your home is listed or in a conservation area, then it is very likely that you will need planning permission before you can convert your garage.  

Insulating the garage conversion – 

It is important that the new room is warm and energy-efficient. In order to comply with building regs, you will need insulation.  

In addition, the simplest way to add insulation to the walls is with insulated plasterboard fitted to timber battens above the damp-proof course.  

How much will it cost?  

A garage conversion is a relatively low-cost way of increasing your living space. This is because you don’t need to pay for laying new foundations or building new walls and you also may have power.  

For a single garage conversion, you should budget around £20,000 – £30,000 with some variation due to your choice of materials and fittings.  

It is also worth mentioning that a construction material shortage is causing a spike in many building materials.  

Factors that could affect the cost of your garage conversion –  

  • Planning applications 
  • If you use an architect or designer 
  • Whether you need to use a structural engineer 
  • Whether the foundations need to be reinforced 
  • If the ceiling height needs to be raised. You need around 2.2-2.4m of headroom. 
  • If the walls, floors, or roof need to be repaired. It may be cheaper to demolish your garage and start again.  

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Design and insperation

Great ways to remodel your basement

14th January 20220

Basements tend to have a bad reputation, due to movies and stories. However, if there are built finished, they actually offer a load of extra living space for many purposes and activities. So, if you are lucky enough to live in a house that has a basement, here are a few great ways to use it.  

Adding a reading corner/ nook –  

If you’re a family that loves to read and lose yourself in a book, then creating a designated area in your home would be perfect. The space under the stairs has great potential for a cosy reading nook. By transforming the once dark, dusty cupboard, you can create a comfortable hideaway perfect for relaxing. And if you do decide to place this area under the stairs you will still have the whole basement for other purposes.  

Mary Tomassetti (mctcheer315) - Profile | Pinterest

Basement home cinema –  

Putting a cinema in the basement would work perfectly because of the lack of natural light. It is also the perfect space if you have children, watching movies as a family can create a great bonding and as they get older it would be a fun environment to spend time with friends in.  

27 Cool Basement Home Theater, Ready To Entertain - Reverb SF

Adding a bar to the basement –  

If entertaining is your thing or if you just like to party, adding a bar to your basement is a game-changer. Having a designated area where people can come over and enjoy themselves is great, especially if you don’t want guests all over the house.  

What Makes a Great Basement Wet Bar?

Rooms for guests –  

If you have a large family or love to have people over, having a space for the guests to sleep is a must and the basement is the perfect area. Adding another room will also raise the value of the property if you decide you want to sell. If the area is small adding barn doors are a great choice because they take up minimal space and provide architectural interest.

30+ Best Basement Bedroom Designs: Learn To Brighten Up The Dull Spaces - Terry Cralle

 

Basement living room –  

Making a living room in the basement is one of the simpler options you could go for. Some interior design tips when it comes to styling a basement are to use light flooring and a modern chandelier because it keeps the space from feeling too dark.  

Basement Family Room Before and After

Laundry room –  

If you have a small kitchen, including a utility in your basement might help you with space. By creating the room brand new you could make it into the space of your dreams.  

Modern Laundry Room Ideas for Small Spaces [ Updated 2020 ]

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Architecture & Building

All there is to know before moving into a bungalow

14th January 20220

What is a bungalow?  

A bungalow is a one-storey house, cottage, or cabin. Bungalows are usually small in terms of square footage, but it’s not uncommon to see large bungalows. They were originally designed to provide affordable, modern housing. 

Characteristics of a bungalow –  

Bungalows are great homes for people with disabilities and the elderly because they are small and easy to maintain. Because there is only one storey, they tend to be more cost-effective compared to a typical home. The gas and the electric costs would end up being lower because it is a smaller property.  

Because bungalows are single storey homes and it is known that either elderly or the disabled usually live in them, the property can fall victim to break-ins. Therefore, it is a good idea to invest in some security cameras for your home.  

Advantages and disadvantages –  

Advantages – 

There are many benefits to living in a bungalow and they include:  

  • The potential for garden access from bedrooms  
  • Bright, airy, open plan layout 
  • A good connection with the outdoors  
  • No stairs to factor in the layout 
  • Can have vaulted ceilings and skylights in the main living areas.  
  • Can offer more privacy 

Disadvantages –  

  • Not enough room separation. Since all of the rooms are located on the same floor, creating separation between living spaces and bedrooms can be difficult.  
  • Lack of security  
  • Size can be an issue.  

How much do bungalows cost in the Uk?  

The cost of building a bungalow in the UK depends on the size and complexity of the structure. In total, the average cost of building a bungalow can range anywhere between £181,000 and £552,000. This is because the cost of a bungalow is influenced by land costs and the size of the plot.  

How long does it to build a bungalow?  

The time it takes to build all depends on the size of the house and the specifications of the design. But on average it should take between 4 and 5 ½ months to build a bungalow. However, this time could extend it any complications occur.  

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Extensions, House Extension

The basic information to know about Double-storey extensions

14th January 20220

A double-storey extension may seem like a much larger project to do in comparison to a single storey. They’re often a more budget-efficient way to add extra space to your home and is a lot cheaper than moving house.  

Will you need planning permission for a double-storey extension?  

It is possible that you can build a double-storey extension under permitted development, but it is very likely that you will need planning permission. The basic rules that planning permission will be required are if the extension:  

  • Extends towards the road 
  • Increases the overall height of the building 
  • Covers more than half the area of land surrounding your home 
  • Is taller than 4m  
  • Extends more than 6m from the rear of an attached house 
  • Extends more than 8m from the rear of a detached house 
  • Is more than half the width of your house 
  • Uses different materials to those of the original house 
  • Includes a balcony or raised veranda 

Designing the double-storey extension –  

You should consider how to blend the extension with your existing home to make sure that it doesn’t look out of place. You can do this by matching the floors and walls between the new and existing space. Another way is to use the same decorations such as colour schemes, furniture and mouldings.  

You may also need to reconfigure the layout of the upstairs to make the new access to the rooms feel natural.  

Adding in windows and doors that capture the most sunlight and the best views are a major point to think about when it comes to designing an extension. Bi-fold doors are a very popular option because it’s a great way to bring the outside in. They also make the space feel bigger and they allow for a lot of sunlight to enter the property.  

How much does a double-storey extension cost?  

The average price of a double-storey extension can cost around £60,000 however, this depends on the size of the space, your location, and how you plan on using the space. 

A big factor in the cost of your extension will be the finish you are aiming to achieve. Here are a few types of finish and what they consist of depending on the size:  

  • Basic – The bare essentials. £40,000 – £90,000 
  • Average – A mix of basic and bespoke items. £47,000 – £95,000 
  • Deluxe – All fixtures and fittings are top quality. £55,000 –  £100,000 

Duration of the project –  

The time scales of your project can never be precise due to delays that can happen. But roughly this is how long you should expect your extension to take:  

  • Small extension – 8 – 10 weeks  
  • Medium extension – 10 – 12 weeks  
  • Large extension – 12 – 14 weeks  

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Conversions

Important information to know when Converting a house into flats

13th January 20220

Converting a house into flats is becoming very popular. Landlords and homeowners are now converting homes into flats because it is a great way to make money. Especially in city locations where flats are becoming in demand more. If you are interested in converting your home, carry on reading.  

Make sure you research –  

Before you buy or alter any property it is very important that you do in detail research about the property and project. 

 Here are a few things you should find out more about:  

  • Desirable areas and upcoming locations. It is important that you buy a property within walking distance of popular transport areas and near local amenities. It is also smart to look for locations that could become popular in the future. There is no point in purchasing a property on a street or area no one wants to live in.  
  • Property prices. It’s vital to find out what the average house prices are in that area, so you know if you’re overpaying or not. You should also keep in mind that you are converting the property so you don’t want to spend all of your budget.
  • The rental market. Finding out what the rental market is like will also help you massively. Knowing if people are looking for flats, who is renting in the area, and what style of home is the most popular will help you in the long run.  

Will you need planning permission for converting a house into flats?  

Any project that has a large dwelling and splits it into multiple new units will need to undergo a full planning application before they proceed. Each council has different policies and they will dictate the size of the rooms, how many you can have, and if you can even go through with the conversion. 

You may have to hire a solicitor to work with you to find out if you are legally able to convert the house. It is also handy to have a solicitor because they can help you create leases for the flats. It’s important to have leases because you won’t be able to sell without them.  

Conversion costs –  

The cost of converting a house into flats depends on the property and the location. On average the standard conversion should cost around £25,000. Conversions are known to be big projects. This means you should expect the project to take around 6 months to be completed.  

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Extensions, Loft Conversion

What the options are for extending a terrace house?

12th January 20220

Terraced houses are one of the most common styles of homes in the UK, especially in busier towns and cities. Terrace houses offer a huge amount of potential; however, they can have small rooms that get very little natural light. The best way you get extra space is by extending the property.  

Find out here what some of the options are for extending a terraced house. 

Rear extension –  

One of the best options for adding space to this style of house is by adding a rear extension. If you have a nice-sized garden then this may be the option for you. By extending into your garden, you could add bi-fold doors to the property and create an indoor/ outdoor living environment.  

If you meet the permitted development requirements, you will be able to extend up to 6 meters, without applying for planning permission.  

Can you have a two-storey extension? 

Planning permission is usually required if you want to add a two-storey rear extension on a terraced house. In many cases, planning is rejected because a two-storey extension that close to the neighbours can cause harm to their living conditions. For example, through loss of privacy, overshadowing, and/ or dominance.  

Internal renovating/ reconfiguration –  

Terrace homes can often consist of small rooms and hallways. One way to open the space up is by knocking down the walls creating an open plan area. By creating an open-plan space it will make your home feel bigger and will brighten the place up because more natural light will flow.  

Terraced loft conversion –  

A great way to create extra bedrooms in a terrace house is by extending upwards instead of out. Before you even plan on a loft conversion you need to make sure you have enough head height. To be approved and to live comfortably you must have a minimum head height of 2.2 meters. It is important that you have enough headroom because you can’t remove and lift a terraced house roof.  

Terrace house side return –  

If you have a small garden and room in between your house and the neighbouring property, then a side return extension will work perfectly. A side return extension is one of the more cost-effective extension types, depending on where you’re from the prices can vary from £2,000 – £4,000 per square meter.

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Advice Center, Architecture & Building

Top things to consider when building a home for the disabled

12th January 20220

There are a number of disabled people that are living in a home, made for an abled person. By living like this it can make their life and day-to-day tasks a lot harder. This is why it is important that more disability-friendly homes are being built.  

A disability-friendly home should ensure independence for homeowners or family members with a disability. Whilst also allowing freedom of movement and comfort for all of the family members and visitors.  

Here are the top things to consider when building a home for the disabled:  

Wider doorways – 

One of the first things that you need to consider is building wider doorways so that it is easier for wheelchair access. For wheelchair users to comfortably navigate within their homes, it’s essential that doorways must be at least 32 inches wide.  

It is also better to use lever door handles because knobs can be difficult for people with dexterity problems. However, even if you don’t have a disabled person within the property, these features are still the most practical. Wide doorways are also growing in popularity which is a great thing for the future.  

The correct flooring – 

Flooring can actually affect the way people with certain disabilities live. Here are some options of flooring:  

  • Hard wood floors are very useful for people who use wheelchairs and walkers, because it is slick for the wheels.  
  • Vinyl floors are a popular choice because they are affordable and are known to be slip resistant.  
  • Carpeted floors provide softer cushioning which is great for people who suffer from joint pain. This is because having a softer floor helps to avoid aggravating the pain.  

Safer bathrooms –  

Bathrooms have proven to be the most difficult area in the home to access. It is important to give the bathroom more space than you would for an abled person. This is so there is more mobility for those who need it, this is why wet rooms are popular within these houses. If you don’t have a wet room or a shower, adding a bath lift will help you get in and out of the bath easier.  

It is crucial to use slip-resistant floor tiles so there is less chance of falling over. Installing hand railings where necessary will also help to provide stability when in the bathroom.  

Security –  

Adding an intercom or alarm system to the property can be very important because it could end up saving someone’s life. If someone falls, they could set off the alarm, and help can be on the way. You should also think about installing outside lights just for extra safety.  

Driveways –  

Driveways for disabled-friendly homes should be about 3.8 meters in width and 5.4 meters in length, maybe even bigger. This is because they need enough room when getting in and out of the car. There should be a wide flat path between the front door, with no plants or trees in the way. Having ramps and slopes is a must in these types of homes so that they are accessible to everyone.  

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Architecture & Building

How to convert a commercial property to residential?

11th January 20220

Converting a commercial property into residential is becoming increasingly common within the UK. Although this market continues to show potential, it’s still essential you learn how to successfully convert a commercial property.  

Step 1 – check if there’s an exception 

A lot of commercial buildings are now eligible to be converted to residential. However, there are some exceptions, for example:  

  • Listed buildings 
  • Buildings within conservation areas or national parks  
  • Properties within areas of natural beauty/ scientific interest.  
  • Buildings within safety hazard areas  

If you are unsure if your property is one of those then it would be best to check. In addition, some of the examples might be acceptable to convert, but you would need to apply for full planning permission.  

Step 2 – identifying the buildings use class

All of the buildings in the UK are placed in a use class. Some of the classes include: 

  • A class – shops, restaurants, and businesses that provide professional services.  
  • B class – offices, storage facilities and warehouses 
  • D class – schools, doctors, cinemas, and other leisure facilities  

In order to convert a commercial building, you will need to apply to change the use class.  

Step 3 – budget  

Before you even think about looking on the market for properties, you need to work out how much you can afford to spend on your project. It is also smart to over budget, just in case of any unexpected additional costs.  

Step 4 – planning permission  

Some of the conversions won’t require planning permission. However, the buildings must be 150 square meters or smaller, if your plans include changing the appearance of the exterior or extending then you may need planning permission.  

Step 5 – finding the property 

Commercial to residential conversions offers a lot of profit potential. It is important to think about what you can do with the property after the conversion. For example, if you’re renting make sure there are plenty of interested tenants, and that you are able to make enough profit. Before you buy you should also look into the surrounding area and see if you like the place.  

Advantages of converting commercial to residential –  

  • Prices are competitive – many commercial properties remain empty, which has forced property owners to ask for less. 
  • Commercial properties are usually located in popular locations. This will be very attractive to the growing tenant demand.  
  • You can turn commercial properties into HMOs. Which is a great investment.  

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Extensions

Is a glass extension the same as a conservatory?

11th January 20220

When it comes to glass rooms, one of the most common questions asked is how are they different from a conservatory. Although, they have many similarities being that they, both allow natural light, provide a sense of indoor and outdoor living, and protect you from the elements. There are also a few differences when it comes to the two.  

What is a glass extension?  

Glass box extensions are made from structural glass units supported with glass beams and fins. They can create a completely clear, frameless extension space with no metal supports visible.  

What is a conservatory?  

A conservatory is a building or room having glass roofing and walls, usually used as a sunroom.  

What are the differences?  

The aesthetic –  

This is one of the main differences between the two extensions. A glass extension’s aim is to create a smooth frameless look so that you will have unobstructed views. Giving the place a clean, minimalistic vibe with more light. Whereas, conservatories have large, thicker frames, giving the house a more traditional feel.  

Planning permission –  

A conservatory and a glass room are an extension to the house, meaning that it will have to follow building regulations for permitted development. If you don’t want to follow permitted development then you will have to apply for full planning permission.  

Whether you need planning permission for an extension will depend on:  

  • Your local planning requirements  
  • The size of the room  
  • Location  
  • Conservation area restrictions  
  • The position in relation to your neighbour’s property 

Cost –  

Glass extensions are usually more expensive than conservatories to build. This is because the quality and durability of aluminum is a lot higher than uPVC which is used on conservatories. So, as the materials are of higher quality the glass extension would cost more to build.  

The average cost of a conservatory is around £15,000; however, the prices can vary depending on the size and features. In addition, this is one of the cheapest ways to create more living space in your home.  

Whereas, on average, for a glass extension the prices start from around £14,000 and can go up and over £80,000 for a large project. 

Pros and Cons of conservatories and glass extensions – 

Conservatories –  

Pros –  

  • Low cost. 
  • Can be used nearly all year round.  
  • Double glazing provides higher insulation U-values.  

Cons –  

  • Can look dated sometimes. 
  • Framed windows and wall components can restrict views.  
  • Design limitations. Can be restricted to predetermined shapes and sizes.  

Glass extension –  

Pros –  

  • Unique style.  
  • Uninterrupted views of the garden  
  • Made to measure, for more flexibility with design.  
  • Combine sliding walls and doors for an adaptable living space.  

Cons –  

  • A bigger initial investment. 
  • They are uninsulated. You may want to add heaters to make the space usable outside of summer.   

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