house Archives - Page 21 of 22

As the saying goes don’t move, improve. Especially if you love your house but want to modernise it to become more of your style. Adding affordable improvements can also add value to your home and can maximise how you use it.

Remove walls –

removing the walls between the dining and living room or even the kitchen can transform an older home. Creating an open plan living space and making the room feel airy and modern, without damaging the character too much.

How to Divide an Open-plan Space With a Half-wall | Houzz UK

Replace or clean the flooring –

If the older house has a dirty carpet, it would be best to either clean it or buy a new one and make the space feel fresh. And if the flooring is wood or dark in colour to modernise the place you should opt for a lighter colour choice.

▷ How to replace carpet with vinyl flooring? And why? | L'Antic Colonial

Paint the walls –

The walls in outdated houses often have crazy wallpaper or dark paint on them. To make your home modern you need to choose colours that will tie your home together. This is an affordable easy way to transform your house quickly.

Bright Pieces gallery wall - White and gold - desenio.co.uk

Install larger windows –

By replacing the old windows with larger ones or by adding bi-fold doors it can open up a space. By doing this you will be creating indoor/ outdoor living which has become a very popular style of home design.

50 Living Rooms with Big Windows (Photos) - Home Stratosphere

Replace old fixtures

From light switches to cabinet handles, fixtures can really date a home. Update these common fixtures in your home and they will bring your design.

Light switches
Outlets and plugs
Cabinet hardware
Door handles
Indoor and outdoor light fixtures

Hide the clutter –

Having numerous ornaments, pictures and magazines can instantly make a home feel outdated and uninviting. Having multi-functional furniture and hidden storage is a simple way to declutter and give your space a modern feel.

Amazon.com: HOMCOM 39" Modern Lift Top Coffee Table Desk with Hidden Storage Compartment for Living Room, Coffee Brown Woodgrain : Home & Kitchen

Add new lighting to your home –

Having proper lighting can bring a room to life. A poorly lit room looks small, dark, and cramped, while a bright room appears open and welcoming. The easiest way of doing this is by adding lamps to dark areas and replacing the ceiling lights.

Landscape the garden –

Landscaping is often overlooked. Planting more trees and flowers or having freshly cut grass can transform the garden and the look of the house. Many outdated houses have overgrown plants or plants that need a lot of love. To modernise the house, you should show just as much care to the outside as you do on the inside.

9 Peter Fudge Gardens ideas | modern garden, landscape design, outdoor gardens

Revamp the fireplace –

A fireplace is a great focal point to a room. However, because fireplaces first became popular in the 70s and 80s you may need to make some changes for them to become modern.

Traditional or Modern Fireplace? | Heat & Glo

Refresh or replace internal doors –

You can give any room an update with a new door. By repainting or adding glass windows to the doors it can transform the entire layout of a home. Glass doors create an open-plan area without removing any internal walls, which is perfect for families.

An inspiring guide to French door perfection.

Design and Inspiration

Everything You Need to Know About Installing a Balcony

26th November 20210

How much does it cost to add a Balcony?

Depending on the complexity of the job would depend on the price. The estimated price of installing a balcony would vary between £1,500 – £5,500.

The estimated cost would cover:

Size
Design
Labourer costs
Material costs
How complex the job is.

Types of balconies

Stacked – The most popular and common. Easy to install.
Juliet/Faux – This is a faux balcony that may contain a small standing area but usually does not. A Juliet balcony contains a balustrade connection to the building without flooring to walk on.
Hung – This structure is made out of stainless-steel cables that are fixed on the sides of the structure. These balconies are less common but have great strength.
Cantilevered – This structure can be made from concrete, steel or timber. This type of project needs to be planned accordingly as the job is quite complex.
Mezzanine – They have a large decking area with railing. This structure gives you more space.

Do I need planning permission to install a balcony?

Furthermore, if your home is in a conservation area or your property is listed you must apply for planning permission.

In other cases, if your balcony is smaller than 300mm you may not have to seek planning permission but it is always best to do so. When submitting your planning application form expect to pay a fee.

Installing a Juliet/Faux balcony means you won’t have to apply for planning permission unless you decide to add flooring to walk on and then you must.

Will it raise my house value?

There are no guarantees that this will raise the price value, but they have been known the raise the value up to 12%.

What are balconies used for?

In addition, balconies are used for extra space, kind of like an outdoor room. Many people like to use their balconies as a garden. For example, adding a barbecue or flowers onto it. Whereas, others like to use their balcony to admire the views the structure allows them to see and relax on it.

Advice Center

The Ultimate Guide To An HMO Property

19th October 20210

What is an HMO?

A house in multiple occupations (HMO), is a property rented out by at least three people who are not from one household, for example, a family. However, they share facilities like the bathroom and kitchen. They’re known as house shares.

However, many types of accommodation could be an HMO. These may include:

Hostels
Lodgings
Shared houses
Refuges
Private halls of residence
Blocks of converted flats
Employee accommodation
Building containing numerous bedsits with shared facilities
Buildings containing flats with their own facilities, but are not self-contained

Design –

In HMOs, the bathrooms, kitchen, stairs, gardens and landings are designated as common areas shared by all tenants. In addition, the house may be divided up into self-contained flats, bed-sitting rooms or simple lodgings.

What determines whether the property is an HMO or not?

Properties must have these four common features before being classified as an HMO:

Occupants are not forming a single household
Occupants must be using the property as their main residence
Used for residential purposes
One of the occupants must be paying rent

Households are regarded as family members living together or single people living alone.

HMO Licences –

HMOs require a licence from the local council in the area the property is located, which is valid for five years. For instance, the general rule is that any property with five or more people from two or more separate households that share facilities requires a licence. Although this depends on the council, some smaller properties with fewer tenants can also require a licence.

The standard HMO licence fee is £1,100, split into two payments. For larger HMOs with more than ten units of accommodation, the fee increases by an extra £50 for each additional unit of accommodation.

The pros and cons of renting an HMO by room

Pros

Usually more profitable as you can charge a higher rent per room
Can let the room on a licence (this makes things easier if you need to evict a tenant)
You cannot be excluded from the common parts. Only individual rooms
If one tenant leaves, you are losing less rent than if a whole group moves out

Cons

So, you will be responsible for paying and managing bills
Tenants do not know each other which may result in mismatch of personalities and potentially cause issues
A tenant is only responsible for their room, not the common parts. In addition, this means if there is any damage it may be difficult to prove who caused it

Are HMOs profitable?

HMOs can be very profitable because you can charge rent per room that totals more than if you let the property to one household. For example, you could rent a 3-bed property for £1000 per month to a family, or 3 rooms for £400 each giving a total of £1200.

Are you aware of the HMO Changes for Landlords coming into effect in October?

Extensions, House Extension

What You Need To Know About Flat-Pack Extensions

14th October 20210

With not enough houses on the market, and unstable house prices more people are choosing to improve their homes rather than moving. Although it can be a better investment, extensions are not cheap. This is why people are looking for a low-cost option.

This is why flat-pack extensions are on the rise. Because they are pre-made additions they have been gaining popularity, thanks to their budget-friendly price and quick installation. They are also a great way of adding extra space to your home if you don’t have the space or don’t want construction work going on.

What is a flat-pack extension?

A flat-pack extension is a home addition that is built off-site. Either in a workshop or a factory. Once it is constructed it’s delivered to your home, and then put together by the extension provider and a contractor.

Just like a normal extension, there are many different styles of flat-pack extensions, for example:

Steel

Timber

Brick

uPVC

Do you need planning permission with a flat-pack home?

Yes, flat-pack require the same planning and building regulations as a traditional extension. Although, if you are within the permitted development rights you will be able to extend your home without planning permission.

Flat-pack Extension costs –

On average a flat-pack extension would cost between £1,260 and £1,680 per square meter for a room that is at a plastered finish. So, you can expect to pay around £25,000-£33,000 for an average-sized single-story extension. However, you need to keep in mind that this doesn’t include paint, flooring, and lighting. All designs are unique so the prices will vary. And also, fees could become 10-15% higher if you’re getting help from architects, planning officers, and engineers.

Pros –

One major benefit to having a flat-pack extension is that the only on-site work that needs to be completed is digging the foundations and connecting the utilities. Another benefit is that it would cause less disruption to your everyday life and the neighbour’s and it would be less of an inconvenience.

Cons –

With flat-pack extensions, you are limited in the designs you choose, and you might not be able to get an extension that matches your home. This could affect your planning permission and devalue the property. They are also more common on the rear of the property. Which is a disadvantage for someone who was hoping to add a side or a two-story extension.

What are my options? - Habattach - Modular Extension | elink — Flat-pack extension

Architecture & Building, Flat Conversions

Looking To Live In A Maisonette? Everything You Should Know

13th October 20210

What is a maisonette?

It is a set of rooms for living in, typically on two storeys of a larger building and having a separate entrance.

The difference between a maisonette and a flat –

A maisonette is a two-storey flat, where the front door is your own. This means you can exit your home directly to the outside. However, with a regular flat, you have a shared corridor. And your usual flat consists of several rooms that span a single floor.

Maisonettes are often more bespoke than flats and aren’t typically sold as part of a development block. They also vary largely in square footage, layout, and spec. Living in a maisonette also gives you more outside space as opposed to a flat.

Is a maisonette a house?

They are not necessarily a house although they can come with similar square footage and many of the same perks. For instance, they offer similar privacy to that of a house, and they are argued to be safer. Because with all the windows on the higher level, and the only access is the front for it is less likely you would get burgled.

Maisonettes are ideal for families because just like a house they often house gardens and sometimes even garages. However, the garden might have to be shared with others in the flats. And you’ll have to access the garden separately outside, typically through a side gate.

Where can I find them?

In the UK maisonettes are not uncommon, you can find them usually above shops, in town centres and close to cities. Due to them being slightly smaller and more affordable than a house many are located in cities.

They are also popular in areas with lots of students because landlords convert one house into two separate dwellings to take on more tenants.

Is it good to live in one?

There are plenty of advantages to living in a maisonette the first one is that they are warm and cosy. Being upstairs is a major positive especially in the winter because the heat from the downstairs flat rises and it heats up the house.

Maisonettes often also have a lot of storage compared to a flat or an apartment. This is because most of them have exterior storage such as a garage.

Maisonettes itself would be about 20-25% cheaper than the equivalent space in that block.

Some negatives to living in one –

Although there are many positives, there are some hurdles to living in a maisonette. With either no off-road parking or a shared driveway parking you can be difficult. And a lot of people find parking on a residential street a nightmare.

When living above someone you have to be extra neighbourly, you need to be respectful and keep an eye on the amount of noise you make.

8 Maisonette Designs That Are a Step Up from Your Usual HDBs | Qanvast — A modern maisonette

Design and Inspiration

Top 5 Best House Styles in the UK

23rd September 20210

Put simply, Architectural Styles are what define the way a house feels and looks. In Britain, there are many house styles to choose from. They reflect the trends, wealth level, and the general mood of the era they were built in.

In many instances, a walk down the street can take you on something of an immersive trip through history. Undoubtedly, you will pass by houses that were all created at various points in time.

Here, we have selected 5 of the most popular house styles for you to sink your teeth into. Perhaps you are building your own home and are trying to recreate a certain style. Or maybe you are simply carrying out a renovation project and want to know how to remain authentic. Easy. At Pro Arkitects – Design & Build Experts, we’ve got the guide for you.

1. Georgian styles (1714 – 1830)

Spanning multiple generations, Georgian Architecture receives its namesake from the reigns of the first four King Georges of England. They’re large in size and are known for their elegance. Their satisfying symmetry, accomplished partly by applying the golden ratio, is extremely pleasing to the eye. Furthermore, they offered natural light, which had been noticeably absent from many earlier architectural styles.

A varied and highly influential category, Georgian Architecture encompasses many types of houses. These include stately English country mansions, as well as terraced townhouse blocks in London and Dublin.

2. Modern/ New Build styles (1990’s and Beyond)

By the 1990s, the British public desperately craved a change in the house style. People wanted more traditional features in their homes, following the exposed shortcomings of the popular modernist structures of the 1960s. As a result, new build houses outwardly mirrored older buildings once more. Rendered walls, mock timber framing, and cottage feature all appealed to buyers, approaching the end of the century.

Insulation started being introduced into walls and loft spaces around this stage. Additionally, double glazing began to be fitted into the majority of homes. However, there are more security measurements nowadays. Such as gas and fire safety rules.

3. Eco-Build (2000’s and Beyond)

If the 1990’s saw modernism rejected, in the 2000s, it rose significantly in popularity. This, along with people’s desire to live in more environmentally-friendly, sustainable homes, has led to the modern minimalist style.

The shape and form of these properties take into consideration the importance of shade and sunlight. Solar panels are fitted into new homes, and open plan interiors can be designed without the problems caused by droughts.

Exposed steelwork and timber cladding are common features in modern builds, as are large expanses of glass. Double and triple glazing windows can be fitted whilst maintaining thermal efficiency.

4. Pre-Georgian (1660 – 1688)

Unlike Henry VII, the Stuart Kings were more open to the architectural fashions from Europe. Inigo Jones became one of the first individuals to apply this style to buildings for the Royal Family. However, it would not be until after 1660 that this style would begin to transform housing.

Timber-framed homes were still popular with merchants and farmers in the countryside during this period. However, the homes of those who were better off were becoming increasingly built of stone and brick. It was at this point also that 2 storey homes with bedrooms above ground floor rooms became more common.

5. Edwardian styles (1901 – 1910)

During the Edwardian era, the Baroque style was adapted for grand houses and public buildings.

In addition, as many rejected the mass-produced goods of the industrial age, craftsmanship and traditional forms of the building were revived. It was during this time that the Arts and Crafts Movement led to a rise in vernacular architecture and timber framing. White painted timber porches and balconies, with intricate fretwork and balusters, were also popular.

The exterior of Edwardian homes was still colorful, but the patterns were generally more subdued than in the Victorian era. With the arrival of gas and electric lighting, houses did not get as dirty. This encouraged people to decorate with lighter, brighter wallpapers and curtains.

Architecture & Building, The science of a happy home

The Complete Ultimate Guide To A Tiny House

17th September 20210

If you want the independence of owning your own home but don’t quite have the facilities to do so yet a tiny house is a great option. This is because it is a creative way to address the lack of affordable living and reduces living costs

What is tiny house?

A structure is considered a tiny house when it is less than 40 square meters. While they are much smaller than a typical home, they provide the benefits and comforts of larger homes. They can often include a full kitchen, Livingroom, and bathrooms, and also bedrooms that can fit a queen-size bed. So even though the structure is small you can still have a lot of what a normal house would have.

Tiny house movement –

There is a movement called the tiny house movement that started in the 1970s. It is an architectural and social movement that advocates for downsizing living spaces and essentially living with less. The movement was also regarded as a potential eco-friendly solution to the housing industry. It is also a feasible option for individuals who are homeless or have a lack of shelter.

Just like what the movement is trying to help with it is a necessity for some people who can’t afford a typical house. People who want tiny houses can build their own homes and have some fun with them. The houses are usually around 40 square meters or less. And if you decide to build one yourself you could do it for less than £7,200. Whereas if you buy one the average price is around £35,000.

Some people build their home on a trailer base so it becomes a towable vehicle because it avoids the complications of a permanent home with foundations. It will also free up some of your time because you won’t have to spend as much time working. And that is because you will not have an obligation to pay off a mortgage. You will also then have more time to spend with your friends and family and will be outside more.

Why a tiny home might not be for you:

It is a niche market and could be a risky investment
You can still live small by adopting a minimal lifestyle at home.
The majority of homes can only accommodate only one or two residents
You would have to minimise your stuff and maybe get rid of a lot of things
The supply is high but the demand is small, and it might take a while to resell it.
It will be hard to host or entertain overnight guests.
An average home allows buyers to grow into. A tiny home limits lifestyle.

Extensions, House Extension

An Informative Step By Step Guide To An Extension

16th September 20210

An extension to your home can be an extremely beneficial investment, especially for those that require more space but don’t want to move to another property. And creating additional living space can add a lot of value to your home.

Step 1 – getting planning permission –

The first step to creating an extension is confirming and creating an idea for your project. And then once you have decided on the type and style of the extension you require, you must consider whether or not you are permitted to build. When it comes to extensions either planning permission will be required, or your plan will be accepted following the rules for permitted development. What is planning permission? Planning permission is the acceptance by the local authority to go ahead with the requested construction plans of a building.

Step 2 – permitted development rights –

Permitted development rights are the entitlement to modify a property without the requirement of applying for planning permission. And generally, extensions to a house are covered by permitted development rights. This is because you need to make sure the extension is within two meters of a boundary maximum eaves height should be no higher than three meters to be permitted development.

Step 3 – check your budget –

When it comes to an extension you need to determine a realistic brief that considers the finances of the project and the length of the construction. You also need to include fees for the architects and designers. This is because their advice can be invaluable, especially when it comes to getting permission.

Step 4 – think of the design of your extension –

It is important that you think thoroughly about the design of the extension. You need to think of how the extension will connect to the house. And for example, if you would like to add on the kitchen would you like it to be exposed to the morning sun, or do you prefer a sunset. So, to help with putting your design on paper, it is a good idea to hire an architect.

Step 5 – what to be aware of when building an extension –

Listed buildings and conservation areas may have more specific permitted development rights, compared to normal ones. And you should search for expert guidance when it comes to planning.

Step 6 – applying to a building regulations officer –

Once that it is confirmed your extension doesn’t need planning permission or if the plans have been accepted it will need to be approved by a building regs officer. Drawings will then need to be created by an architect and be submitted.

Step 7 – party wall act –

The party wall act ensures that the extension doesn’t exceed the boundary of the neighbor’s property. And the neighbors need to be informed of any proposed work in advance. A party wall surveyor is responsible for producing a party wall award. This will protect you if any unfortunate circumstances where disputes may arise.

Step 8 – let the Council know –

Your local Council has to be informed about the extension plans.

Step 9 – contact professionals –

The sooner you get in touch the better it will be for you. You should contact planners, contractors, and builders as soon as possible, to have a clear idea of the scale of the project.

Step 10 – check insurance –

You should check whether your house insurance is still valid during construction and if it can be extended to site insurance during the works. You should also check the workers’ insurance to see if it is necessary for your site.

Step 11 – start building

Architecture & Building

New Build houses for New Beginners

13th September 20210

Building a home allows you to enjoy a new property that’s been designed specifically for you and your family. On the other hand, it is a daunting prospect that requires careful management at every stage.

Are you thinking of designing and building a new house, but don’t know where to start? No worries. Pro Arkitects – Design & Build Experts are always on hand to help. With these 7 simple steps, we will help you understand the process of successfully building a new home.

Step 1: Build Choices

When it comes to building a new home, there are several options at your disposal. These vary from; house and land packages, project homes, custom-built properties, or DIY kit dwellings. Each one has its own pros, cons, and costs, so it’s important to figure out where you want to build. Furthermore, it is crucial to establish early on how much you can spend and which options best suit your requirements.

Step 2: Do Your Research!

Unless you’re building on your existing property, you must make sure that your designs work with the land you wish to buy. This significantly affects building costs, so gaining expert advice before committing to land purchases or designs is highly recommended.

Step 3: Choosing a Builder

It is pivotal that you spend time researching builders who are right for your project. There are a vast amount of ways you can go about doing this. Friend recommendations are a popular choice, or you can contact the Master Builders and Housing Industry Associations. Alternatively, you can even invite qualified builders to quote your new home.

Make sure that the contract your desired builder provides covers all areas of your project. In addition to this, it is incredibly important that they agree to a timeline for the completion of the build.

You should get the plans agreement preparation, home indemnity insurance, the building contract, and contract variations agreement verified by a solicitor. This should be done before you sign any form of documentation.

Step 4: Financing Your build

Keeping on top of finances is essential to the successful construction of your home. Ensure that you know how much the total work will cost. Also, if applicable, make sure you have your home loan in place. These requirements must be finalized before the build commences.

Additionally, you must determine how much deposit you will need to pay. Get your solicitor to examine your contract and see how progress payments will be implemented.

Please note that the following section is only relevant to those who require a home loan.

Before you apply for your home loan, you should consider additional costs. These usually include; stamp duty, legal fees, and costs associated with your loan. You may also like to consider applying for a construction loan. This will give you access to money progressively as you complete different stages of construction.

Step 5: Signing the Contract

Once you’ve agreed to the costs, you must review the contract carefully with your solicitor. Many common building errors come as a result of inaccuracies in the contract. Make sure you feel confident in signing the documents to prevent costly changes down the line.

You should check the laws and council requirements in your area to see if your contract is compliant. Moreover, make sure your builder is responsible for securing licences and permits from the relevant authorities.

You may also like to get insurance before construction begins. This will protect your land, the new property, and the people visiting the site.

Step 6: Monitoring the Build

It’s important to stay involved at every stage of construction. You can choose the design elements and make sure it stays on time and within budget.

You may like to keep a diary to record important details of the project in writing. These may include; discussions with the builder, updates on progress, weather, copies of letters, and notices. You may also wish to take photos of the site throughout the project.

If you don’t feel confident managing the contractor or tradespeople building your home, you can assign an independent building consultant. They will then monitor the construction on your behalf.

Step 7: Completing the Handover

Around a week after practical completion of the house, you should be ready to move in. You should receive a copy of all relevant warranties and certificates as per your contract. Make sure you have the builder’s written authority that the building is completed and safe to move into.

Design and insperation, Extensions

The complete guide to annexes and a granny annexe

10th September 20210

What is an annexe?

A self-contained unit is more commonly called an annexe or a granny flat. It is generally a building or a part of a building that is used as separate living accommodation. And they may share common services and an entrance with the main house.

A garden annexe can transform a family’s life. Because by giving the person living in the building closeness to their loved ones. Whilst still maintaining the privacy of having their own space. With a granny annexe, you can avoid costly care homes or the guilt and worry experienced when an unwell or elderly relative lives alone.

A garden annexe isn’t a permanent residence and doesn’t usually require planning permission. A granny flat is intended to be someone’s home. If the building is being used for habitation with all of the main services. Such as a kitchen or kitchenette, bathroom and bedroom, this would need either householder applications or the caravan act. Therefore, requires permission from the local authority, though this can be via a normal planning application.

How much does it cost to build an annexe?

Typically, the average cost to build an annexe is around £20,000. However, the price can vary depending on the size and the quality of the project. Most annexes have between 48 – 75 square meters of living space. Many people like the idea of an annexe because some estimates reckon that they can add as much as 20-30% to the value of the property.

How long do they take to build?

Annexes you build on-site typically take 7-14 weeks depending on the size and the specification, but you also need to allow extra time for manufacturing. And build off-site annexes usually take 10 weeks to manufacture, then 4 days or less to deliver on-site.

Many people also like to have annexes because they are allowed to rent them out. When you rent your property, it would fall under the category of a lodger rather than an assured shorthold tenancy. And also, because annexes will be exempt from paying council tax. Only if it is separately banded for council tax but forms part of another property and a dependant relative is living in it as their main or only home.

large Granny Annexe is a luxurious self contained home | Architecture, House, House design — An annexe/ granny annexe.

Tag: house