Tag: home

Architecture & Building

Adding A Second Dwelling To Your Property

3rd December 20210

Whether you are looking for a granny annex, rental accommodation, or just more room for visitors, adding a second dwelling would be a perfect option.  

What is a dwelling?  

A dwelling is a self-contained unit of accommodation used by one or more households as a home. For example, a house, flat, or another place of residence. People usually opt for these because they are smaller and a more affordable way of adding extra living space to a property.  

Reasons to add another dwelling –  

  • Add extra living space – this is one of the main reasons that people add an extra dwelling. This is a great option for people that want their families close to them, or if you want to move out and have a bit of independence.  
  • Extra income – a way to get a bit of extra income is by renting out the dwelling. You can use the money in any way you like. Such as, to help pay your mortgage or the utility bill or you could invest it back into the dwelling.   
  • Increase the property value – adding a dwelling will no doubt increase the value of the property.  

Will you need planning permission for a dwelling?  

The new building will require planning permission. However, if you stay within permitted development then you may not need to get planning permission. You will not need planning permission if you follow these conditions:  

  • No outbuildings on land forward of a wall forming the principal elevation.  
  • Outbuildings to be single storey with maximum eaves height of 2.5 meters and maximum overall height of four meters with a dual pitched roof.  
  • No verandas, balconies or raised platforms.  
  • Mo more than half the area of land around the original house, would be covered by additions. 
  • Maximum height of 2.5 meters in case of a building or enclosure within two meters of a boundry of the curtilage of the dwellinghouse.  

How much does it cost to add a second dwelling?  

When it comes to building your new dwelling, you should expect contractor fees and materials to eat up your budget. For example:  

Basic build – new build areas – £1500 m2, Refurbished areas – £800 m2 

Standard, high-quality build – new build areas – £1650 m2, Refurbished areas – £875m2 

Premium quality build – new build areas – £1800 m2, Refurbished area £950 m2 

Contact us

Contact us
Architecture & Building

Permitted Development, Everything You Need to Know (PD)

2nd December 20210

What is Permitted Development?(PD) 

Permitted development is a scheme that was created that allows you to extend or renovate without the need for a full planning application. In addition, PD rights are an automatic grant of planning permission that allows building works and changes of use to be carried out. 

What is the difference between Planning Applications and Permitted Development? 

Planning permission is asking your local council for permission to construct a scheme. Whereas PD is notifying your local council of your intentions to construct. 

Do I need drawing for permitted development? 

Yes, you do need drawings. Also, any PD application must be accompanied by Architectural drawings.  

Do I need to pay a fee for a PD Application? 

Furthermore, yes, you do need to pay a fee. 

What size extension can I build without Planning Permission? 

Without planning permission you can only extend on a terraced or semi-detached property. However, you cannot go any taller than four meters in height or three meters across. 

What projects fall under Permitted Development? 

  • Firstly, building a small rear extension 
  • Building a porch less than 3m2. 
  • Changes of use, such as loft conversions, basement conversions and garage conversions. 
  • Internal altercations (knocking down internal walls) 
  • Installing satellite dishes and erecting antenna 
  • Finally, adding roof-lights or dormer windows 

Properties that don’t have PD rights 

  • Flats, Maisonettes or Houses in multiple occupation. 
  • Builds in conservation areas. 
  • Listed buildings 
  • Finally, properties that have had the rights removed. 

Do I need Building Regulations approval under Permitted Development? 

Yes, building regulations are for the construction work itself. Also, you must comply with the rules of building regulations, as it’s not permitted to carry out the work. 

What happens if I’ve built under PD rights, but should have sought Planning Permission? 

So, If it’s already constructed you could be faced with enforcement action, which would result in a request for a retrospective planning application. However, if the permission is refused you will need to demolish the new construction. 

Contact us

Contact us
Design and Inspiration

Doors, Which One Is Best for You?

1st December 20210

There are many different types of doors you can have in your home. For example: 

  • Wooden
  • Glass
  • Pocket
  • Aluminium
  • Roller
  • Pivot
  • Metal  
  • UPVC
  • Fiberglass
  • Flush
  • Dutch   
  • Sliding
  • Roller  
  • Hollow core
  • Hinged  
  • Veneered Timber
  • Composite  
  • Bi-fold exterior
  • French   
  • Panelled  
  • Barn
  • Saloon
  • Steel
  • Battened ledged

The best doors to use in your home  

  • Wooden  
  • Glass 
  • Fiberglass 
  • UPVC  

Pros and cons  

Wooden Pros 

  • Considered to be secure  
  • Wooden doors complement all styles of homes 
  • Decent wooden doors start around £100 and upwards  
  • Noise reduction  

Wooden cons  

  • High maintenance – you need to paint and varnish a wooden door re-applying as it weathers 

Glass pros 

  • Natural light – It does not matter if the glass is clear, tinted, low iron or satin it will not block the natural light. 
  • Strength – Toughened glass doors are known for their strength and durability. 
  • Glass is easy to maintain 

Glass cons 

  • Lack of privacy – You can see straight through glass but this can be sorted. 

Fiberglass pros 

  • Durable – Pet friendly, people friendly and weather friendly. 
  • Performance – Energy efficient Saves money on energy bills 
  • Easy maintain 
  • Versability 

Fiberglass cons  

  • Price – Fiberglass doors are more expensive. 
  • Sizing – The material is not easy to cut, so this is not great for exterior doors that are not normal size. 
  • Installation – The entry system comes with a full unit with the frame, it must be installed by an experienced professional. 

UPVC pros  

  • Durability 
  • Ventilation  
  • Low maintenance  
  • Security 
  • Soundproofing 
  • Eco-friendly 
  • Weather resistant 
  • Insulation  
  • Fire retardant   

UPVC cons 

  • Structural Integrity – UPVC is prone to sagging due to their light weight and also because they are structurally not as strong. Too much heat can result in a rupture of their frames. 

Types of doors  

Glass  

  • Textured glass 
  • Decorative glass 
  • Insulated glass 
  • Stained glass 
  • Frosted or etched glass 
  • Clear glass 
  • Clear class 
  • Single glass 
  • Double glass  

Wooden 

  • Internal 
  • External 
  • Solid oak 
  • Solid hardwood timber 
  • Hollow softwood timber 

UPVC 

  • Slide and fold
  • French  
  • Sliding
  • Casement
  • Lift and slide 

Steps to take that will make your front door safer 

Wooden doors are secure but just like any you will need a good lock. Other steps you can take to increase security are: 

  • A peep hole 
  • Door chain 
  • High-quality glass 
  • Secure hinges 

Contact us

Contact us
Architecture & Building, Flat Conversions

How much does it cost to build flats in 2022

1st December 20210

Building a new block of flats can be a brilliant investment. However, a build of this size requires great project management and a team of people who are capable of bringing the construction to life.  

What is the difference between a flat and an apartment?  

A flat is an individual residence with a set of rooms, typically on one floor and within a larger building containing a number of residences. Whereas, an apartment is a room or suite of rooms designed as a residence. And is generally located in a building occupied by more than one household. However, some people call apartments and flats the same thing, because they are very similar.  

How to design flats –  

Because creating a block of flats is a really big project it is best that you hire a really good and well-trained architect to help design the place. Often flats can feel small because everything is on one floor, so one thing the architect can do is to make the space feel larger.  

A good way to make the space feel larger is by adding plenty of windows into the design. By doing this it creates more light coming into the rooms, and it can also feel like you are bringing the outside in.  

Another way of doing this is by choosing the colour and pattern scheme wisely. Designing with lighter colours also brightens up the place, and makes the space feel larger.  

The architect and also make some built-ins, having built-in appliances and storage can save the resident’s space.  

How much does it cost to build a block of flats?  

Firstly, the price of the land and whether or not you need to demolish an existing structure before building will play a leading role. Although, on average the typical cost to build a flat will range between £1,800 – £3,000 per m2. When it comes to the land and demolition you shouldn’t be surprised when the prices get more expensive. They range between £6,000 – £12,000.  

When you are trying to price up your job you should always remember to budget for extras. For example, the cost for finishings, architect, contractor fees, landscaping, decorating and, furnishings.  

Contact us

Contact us
Design and Inspiration, Interior Design, Materials

Double-Glazing and Triple-Glazing Advantages

30th November 20210

Advantages of Double Glazing and Triple Glazing 

What is double-glazed glass? 

Double glazing is used in all kinds of glass installations and involves two panels of glass set in the same frame that are separated by a thin layer or air or sometimes gas such as argon. Double-glazed windows keep the cold out and the warmth in keeping away the draft. 

What is triple-glazed glass? 

Triple glazing is a window that has three panes of glass separate my argon gas. This extra layer makes it even more difficult for heat to escape and cold to come through. 

The benefits of Double and Triple glazing 

Double glazing 

  • Reduces heat loss and drafts – Double glazing reduces heat loss by not allowing the heat to escape. 
  • Provides acoustic insulation – This attempts to prevent sound leaving and coming into the home. 
  • Increases security – This increases security as it’s a lot more difficult to break than standard glass, making burglars want to avoid trying. 
  • Reduces build-up of condensation. 

Triple glazing 

  • Reduces condensation on your windows 
  • Reduces heating bills – This keeps the heat in your home and the cold outside. This will prevent the heat leaving your home meaning you don’t need to use the heating as often. 
  • Makes home noticeably more comfortable  
  • Reduces carbon output and greenhouse gases. 

Types of double glazing 

  • Low-E glass 
  • Float glass  
  • Laminated glass 
  • Toughened glass 

Advantages of Low-E glass 

  • Makes your home more energy efficient  
  • Potentially saves money on heating bills 
  • Reduces the glare from the light 
  • Reduction in your heating bills correlates to a reduction in total energy usage, reducing carbon footprint. 
  • Low-E glass helps keep unwanted UV rays out of your home that can damage your skin or furniture. 

Is Low-E glass worth double-glazing? 

High-efficiency double-glazed Low-E glass is really good at reducing heat loss saving on bills in the long run. 

Advantages of toughened glass 

  • Strength – This glass is known as a safety glass is five times stronger that regular glass.  
  • Sound reduction  
  • UV protection 
  • Impact resistance 
  • Heat resistance  
  • If broken the glass will shatter evenly into small pieces so there are no shards or splinters of glass causing less risk of injury. 

Toughened glass is commonly used for car windscreens, greenhouses, shower screens, glass shelves and table tops. 

Advantages of Float glass 

  • Float glass has a complete even surface. 
  • Environment friendly  
  • Displays – its crystal-clear transparency   

Advantages of laminated glass  

  • Has a plastic layer between the two panes of glass which holds the shards when broken. 
  • Easy to apply colouring  
  • Reduces the effects of harmful UV rays. 
  • Improves sound insulation 

Laminated glass is commonly used for external and internal doors, shop fronts, car windscreens, shelving and security glass. 

Questions that are commonly asked  

What’s wrong with single-glazed windows? 

There is nothing wrong with single glazed windows, it still does its purpose but single pane windows can cause heat loss, noise and condensation. 

Do I need planning permission? 

You don’t need to apply for planning permission to double glaze windows. However, if your home is in a conservation area or your home is a listed property you may find yourself to be under restricted rules only being allowed single pane windows. If you live in a conservation area or listed property, check your restrictions before starting anything. 

Is triple-glazing more expensive than double-glazing? 

Yes, it is. Triple-glazed glass costs up to 33% – 50% more expensive than doubled-glazed glass. 

What frames can I use? 

  • Timer 
  • Aluminium  
  • PVCU 

There key benefits: 

Timber:  

  • Natural appearance  
  • Renewable raw material  
  • Excellent insulator  
  • Durability  

Aluminium  

  • Durability  
  • Easy care 
  • Modern look 
  • Eco-friendly 
  • Light weight 

PVCU 

  • Easy care  
  • Long durability  
  • Very good insulation properties 
  • Versatility  
  • Many colours available  
  • Light weight  
  • Lower price  
  • 100% Recyclable  

Contact us

Contact us
House Extension

The informative basics to a Chalet/ dormer Bungalow

30th November 20210

What is a Chalet bungalow?  

A chalet bungalow is a type of bungalow house that has a small living space on the second floor or loft. A bungalow is generally considered a one-storey structure that is detached from other structures. The chalet bungalow is still essentially a bungalow because it matches the criteria that comprise a bungalow-style home.   

However, people may say that they are really one and a half storeys and not bungalows. They are referred to in British a “chalet bungalows” or “dormer bungalows” 

History of the bungalow –  

The term ‘bungalow’ originated in the Bengali region of India, meaning ‘house in the Bengal style’. These houses were traditionally small, of one storey and detached, and had a wide veranda. The bungalows were built in India for English sailors of the East Indian company. The bungalow became known in Britain, and then America, where it had high status. 

Later in the 1960s, the form evolved into a chalet bungalow with bedrooms in the roof space, with dormers.  

Things you need to bear in mind before you convert –  

Before you start converting your bungalow there are a few things you should consider. Firstly, you need to make sure that you have enough room to install a staircase to access the floor above.   

Another thing to consider is that when converting a property into a chalet, it’s essential that there is plumbing on the new floor. This is so you will be able to have heating and water if you are creating a bathroom.  

How much does it cost to build a chalet/ dormer bungalow in the UK?  

As dormer conversions are relatively straightforward to add to a home, they are the cheaper type of conversion. They would typically cost around £31,000 – £58,000 depending on the size of the conversion and other factors. 

How long do they take to build?  

Most dormer/ chalet extensions can be completed within as little as 6 – 8 weeks. Although, you should keep in mind that the design and planning process can take longer than the build itself.  

Contact us

Contact us
Design and Inspiration, House Renovation

Renovations That Increase Your House Value: Part 1

29th November 20210

Renovations to consider when wanting to add more value to your home 

Loft and garage conversions  

These two conversions are the most popular way of extending and adding value to the property. However, converting these into living space will add value by 15%. In addition, a garage conversion will increase the value by 20%. People convert these to create more living space and storage. 

Energy efficiency improvements  

This can fall into two categories: 

  • Simple low-cost improvements 
  • High-cost improvement works 

From research, energy-saving improvements to your property can raise the value by 14%. Meanwhile, improving lost insulation, cavity wall installation, double glazing, and adding a high-performance boiler would decrease energy bills giving the home more value. 

Outdoor décor (garden landscaping and external works) 

Furthermore, maintaining the garden area can add value by 10% – 20%. The things people keep in mind about the garden is: 

  • Privacy and security  
  • Good lighting  
  • Well thought terraced area  
  • Flat lawn  

Other renovations that can increase your house value  

  • Firstly, garage conversion 20% increase 
  • Secondly, loft conversion 15% increase 
  • Energy saving 14% increase 
  • Balcony 12% increase 
  • Outdoor décor 10% – 20% increase 
  • Open living plan 6% increase 
  • Kitchen 6% increase 
  • Central heating 5.4% increase 
  • Bathroom 5% increase  
  • Paint and decorate 5% increase 
  • Fireplace 5% increase 
  • Conservatory 5% increase 
  • Flooring 3% increase 
  • Roof 3% increase 
  • Finally, decking 2% increase 

Contact us

Contact us
Architecture & Building

What are eaves in architecture?

29th November 20210

What are eaves in a house?  

The area where a roof extends a small way past the wall of a building is usually referred to as the eaves. The term ‘eaves’ typically refers to the combination of soffit and fascia that adorn the overhang of a roof. 

Types of eaves –  

There are four basic types: 

  • Exposed – the finished underside of the roof and supporting rafters are visible from the underneath.  
  • Soffit – includes a soffit – the panelling which forms the underside of the eaves, connecting the bottom tip of the eave with the side of the building at a 90-degree angle.  
  • Boxed in – encases the roof rafters but meets the side of the building at the same angle as the roof pitch. 
  • Abbreviated – cut off almost perpendicular with the side of the building.  

Are eaves the same as soffits?  

To summarise the difference between the two, the eave is an area of the roof which overhangs the walls, whereas the soffit is the underside component of this area. In the widest sense, soffits can refer to the underside of almost anything that’s constructed, including arches and porches. An eave is part of a roof system and a soffit is part of the eave. In simple terms, eaves and soffits are two different parts of the same structure.  

Why do you need them?  

They can define the style of a home, and they also have a major function. They can protect the siding and foundation of a structure. A roof’s eaves sticking out beyond the sides allow snow and rain to fall from the roof away from the sides and to the ground. This can prevent leakage-related damage to the building façade.  

Eaves can also provide shading to windows, helping to maintain comfortable internal conditions. In the winter the low sun is able to enter through the windows to warm the interior. Whereas, in summer, they prevent direct sunlight from entering your home.  

How much does it cost to replace eaves on a house?  

The average cost to repair roof eave damage can be anywhere between £345 – £1000. However, most people pay around £675 to have a carpenter repair a 30 linear feet section of the soffits and fascia damaged by moisture or insects. The maximum cost of roof eaves can go up to £3,100.  

17,507 Eaves Stock Photos, Pictures & Royalty-Free Images - iStock

Contact us

Contact us
Uncategorised

A Guide to Commercial Buildings

29th November 20210

What is a commercial building used for?

Commercial property is a space that allows you to use the space for commercial activities such as food service, retail, or any other business. Commercial buildings have been split into classifications designated into classes A, B, and C. 

Firstly, Class A buildings are usually newer construction properties with better amenities and infrastructure. However, this could be an older building that has been remodeled, they are usually located in a popular area. 

Secondly, Class B buildings are maintained and well managed. Not always a new build but can be easily transformed by some renovations. 

Thirdly, Class C buildings are often old properties, located in unbeneficial areas that are less maintained. Although, there are building that tends to need more work done. Landlords will charge less due to the work needing to be done. 

Classifications  

For example, classifications for each building:

Firstly, A1 – shops such as:  

  • Retail (not hot food) 
  • Post office 
  • Hairdressing 

Secondly, A2 – Professional services 

  • Banks 
  • Health and medical services 

A3 – Food and Drink  

  • Cafes  
  • Restaurants   
  • Anything that serves hot food 

A4 – Drinking establishments  

  • Bars 
  • Wine bars  

B1 – Business 

B8 – Storage and Distribution  

  • Wholesale warehouse 
  • Distribution centre  
  • Repositories 

C1 – Hotels  

  • Hotels  
  • Guest homes  

Finally, C2 – Residential institutions  

  • Boarding schools 
  • Training centre 
  • Hospitals  
  • Nursing homes  

Do I need planning permission?  

Furthermore, yes you would, it is essential that you have planning permission for commercial buildings.

When do you need commercial planning permission? 

You will definitely need to have planning permission if you intend to: 

  • Add an extension or large-scale renovation. 
  • Build a new property. 
  • Change the use of the building. For example, changing the use from commercial to residential or residential to commercial. 

Do I need Planning permission if I work from home? 

Using space in your home will not usually need planning permission. However, you should get planning permission if: 

  • Your business is unusual to be in a residential area. 
  • Your employees work from your home. (But are not occupants) 
  • The number of customers visiting your home increases. 
  • Your business could disturb your neighbours. 

Contact us

Contact us
Advice Center

Should you buy in the city or the country?

26th November 20210

Buying a home in the country can be very attractive to some people because the property is cheaper and there are amazing spaces you can explore. However, what if you prefer the fast pace, active city life. This blog will help you consider a list of things before you decide to move.  

Transportation –  

Firstly, if you want to live in the country, you should be prepared to drive everywhere.  If there are multiple people living in your house you should ideally have 2 cars. This is because public transport is rare when it comes to countryside travel, and if it does come it usually takes a long time.  

Whereas with the city, the only problem you might have is the traffic. Every type of public transport runs frequently and they are usually always on time. Because of all of the public transport, you will most likely use your car less.  

Space –  

A major reason people decide that they want to move out of the city and into the country is for the space. Houses out in the country are a lot larger for the price you pay, compared to the city. The garden space you get when you move to a more rural area is incredible as well. The gardens include trees, fields, rivers.  

However, if you are young, single, or just prefer living in the city then it is perfect for you if you don’t mind having less space.  

Farmhouses for Sale 2017 - Country Homes In Every State

Signals and WIFI –  

If your job involves you needing to be on the internet a lot or if you can’t live without WIFI or service then you should think hard about moving to the countryside. Rural areas are known for their poor reception and no service. So, if your life revolves around the internet then it is best to say in the city.  

The sky –  

Sunrises and sunsets are beautiful in the country when because it’s all you can see. However, it’s the night sky that brings major joy, because there is no light pollution the stars light up the night sky. If you are contemplating moving from the city to the country then the views are a big advantage.  

Crystal clear skies give stargazers stunning views thanks to Arctic blast | Daily Mail Online

Community –  

When living in a city the people and neighbours like to keep themselves to themselves and don’t like to be bothered. So, if you are looking for a friendly community then the best bet would be to move to the countryside. It might be cliché but villagers are more involved and friendly with the community.  

Contact us

Contact us