Tag: planning

Extensions

Things You Need to Know About Rear Extension

17th May 20230

Want to improve or expand the living area in your home? Then a rear extension is a great way to do this instead of moving house. We know that the living space in most of the houses in the UK is very tight, especially in the cities. Home Extensions are a great solution to cope with living space issues. Well, getting an extension is not an easy task are requiring a decent amount of capital. However, it is a significant investment that can help increase the value of your property. It is best to invest in an extension if you want to sell your home in the future. So, in this article, we will share expert advice on things you need to know about rear extension.

Types of Extension

There are mainly three types of House Extensions that you can found in UK cities: the side return extension, the wrapped extension, and the rear extension. But when we talk about a rear extension, it means an extension that goes across the full width of the house. It goes out towards the garden.

On the other hand, a side return extension increases the living space at the side of the rear projection. Many properties in the UK have a small alleyway on the side. So, we just need to incorporate this space into the home.

One of the most common types of extension is a single-story rear extension. It is a great way to link areas together to make them bigger. Furthermore, it also adds to the value of your property and makes it more pleasant.

Permitted Development Rights For Rear Extension

In many areas in the UK, you can add an extension without planning permission because they come under permitted development. For this, you need to download some documents from the RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) and local councils to see what you can do under permitted development.

Let us explain; the document says that you can extend your existing home by a percentage of the volumetric space. By it means that every extension is included, such as loft extension, etc. You need to submit an application that consists of the volume of the property and sketches of the design. It is better to go through the process even you are withing permitted development. You can do this on your own as it is not a complicated task.

If you want rules regarding an extension, you can read them on planning porta. All the regulations related to height, distance, and size of an extension can be found there. It is easy to get confused by permitted development. So, it is better to get help from local authorities to make sure that you do not step outside. It is also better to hire a professional at this state who knows about these limits and who can help you make these changes without planning permission.

Planning Permission

Suppose, the extension you want does require planning permission, then what you need to do? Well, you can apply for it yourself. You need to submit elevations, drawings of plans, and its relation to the surrounding properties. Some of the people are nor comfortable with the process, so in this case, you hire a professional. If you want an expert opinion, then we will recommend you to get the help of a professional in the early stages. An architectural services provider can provide valuable input regarding the design of the space.

Conservation Areas

If your property is in a conservation area, then you need planning permission. If you are not sure whether you live in a conservation area, you can check with local planning authority online. In short, most city centers are conservation areas. Local authorities designate an area as conservation when they want to maintain the feel and look of that particular area.

Rear Extension Design

Architectural services providers can help you with the planning and design of the extension. First of all, you need to discuss their packages. They will survey the job site and will tell you whether the project is feasible or not. If it is possible, then they will provide you with initial sketches of the design. Once you are happy with the initial plans, they will give you detailed drawings that you can use for planning permission.

They cannot only help you with the designs but also with project management. We are also providing these services; a client can go as far as he or she wants. Some of our clients are capable of managing the project, so they only need some advice on the design. Some of them want our help with planning regulations and permission.

On the other hand, some clients want us to manage their whole project. The cost of our services depends on what you want from us. Getting the help of a professional is a good idea because they know how to deal with builders and contractors.

Credit: http://www.theartofbuilding.co.uk/blog/category/residential/page/4
Architecture & Building, Planning Permission

Planning A Porch Extension For The First Time

4th April 20230

First impressions are important to people. So you should create a warm welcome for guests by adding a stylish and functional porch extension to the front of your home. 

What Is A Porch Extension?

A porch is a single storey structure. That can be enclosed and projects out from the front of the house.

Designing The Porch –  

A porch not just adds an extra bit of storage for shoes, or coats, it can be completely bespoke to suit your needs. A porch also can provide extra security benefits because it creates a barrier between your front door and the outside. Closed porches also are energy efficient because they prevent heat escaping and it saves you a bit on your bills. There are many different porch designs and choices when it comes to building one. Starting from brickwork, front doors, windows, and roof options. However, when you are making these choices, you need to make sure you are integrating the design of your original house.  

Planning Permission –  

A porch is considered to be permitted development. This means that you do not require an application for planning permission, provided: 

  • The ground floor area would not exceed three square meters 
  • No part would be more than three meters above ground level.
  • No part of the porch would be within two meters of any boundary of the dwelling house and the highway 

You would also need to check if you live in a listed building or a conservation area before you start your project.   Prices of a porch extension –  The prices of a porch extension can vary depending on what you want to do to the property and if you have a budget. Adding a porch typically costs around £1000-£1,200 per meter square. Installing a porch will very likely increase your home’s value. When it’s time to sell your home, some sources say the average return on investment for a porch addition is around 84%.  

Porch extension
Credit: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/13159023902288428/

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Building Control

Why The building act 1984 is important in construction

16th March 20230

What is the building act?  

The building act 1984 is a UK regulation consolidating previous legislations concerning the construction process, and the design and specifications for building and their component parts.  

Why was the act introduced? 

It empowers the secretary of state to make regulations for the purpose of:  

Securing the health, safety, welfare and convenience of people in or about building. As well as, others who may be affected by buildings or matters connected with buildings.  

What is the purpose of the building act 1984? 

So, the building act sets out the legislative framework for the building control system.  

The building act empowers and obliges local authorities to enforce the regulations in their areas. These regulations include:  

  • A right of entry into buildings of prosecution  
  • Enforcement in relation to non-compliant building work 
  • Dangerous structures and demolitions.  
  • Setting the status of approved documents 

What happened if you don’t follow the regulations?  

First, the local authorities may prosecute them in court where an unlimited fine may be imposed. Also, prosecution is possible up to two years after the completion of the offending work.  

Here is an example of a man who went against all building regulations –  

Mohammed Ali Khan labelled a reckless homeowner, illegally knocked down his £800,000 3-bedroom, West London home. Then, Khan got a contractor to demolish the property without any permission from the local authorities.  

Furthermore, the councils building control services investigated after worried neighbours contacted the authorities over safety concerns.  

Finally, Khan was taken to court where he denied two charges of breaching the building act 1984. In addition, Khan was found guilty and ordered to pay a fine of £6,043.34. Despite the prosecution, there is still a ‘dangerous structure notice’ in place which will remain until the remaining front façade is removed or the house is re-built, the council said. 

 (Image: Hounslow Council)

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Advice Center

Planning Application Rejected? Here’s How To Resolve The Issue

22nd February 20230

If the authority refuses to give you permission for a planning application, they must give you a written reason explaining why it was denied.  If you are unhappy or unclear about the reasons for refusal you should talk to a member of the local authority planning department.  

Withdraw and resubmit –  

Withdrawing and resubmitting the application is the best option if something has come to light that could get your application denied. You should withdraw the application before it gets rejected. Then make the changes and resubmit.  

Apply for a planning application appeal –  

You can ask the local authorities that if changing the plans will make a difference.  You must submit your appeal within three months, if you have a major project, you have up to six months.  

However, the council will send you information on how to appeal. There are three ways of doing so – in writing, at an informal hearing, and a public inquiry. 

 Most councils will ask you to go down the in-writing route. You will get an informal hearing if there is a lot of public interest in the plans. A public inquiry will only take place for the most complex of cases.  

When appealing in writing you’ll need to write down all of the reasons why you think your application should have received planning permission. When writing you should be as detailed as possible and focus on the planning matters.  

Once this has been completed, a planning inspector will visit your home. The inspector will give his decision on the appeal within two to six weeks of the visit.  

Reasons your planning application can be refused –  

  • Protection of green belt land – local authorities are under clear instruction to strongly oppose any schemes involving potential harm to the openness of the green belt.  
  • Negative effect on character and appearance – this can be the most frequent issue. Projects that change the pattern of the houses are usually denied.
  • Loss of a family home – projects that want to convert a house into flats or non-residential places are a common reason for refusing this type of planning application.  
  • Overshadowing – you need to make sure your development doesn’t overshadow the neighbouring properties causing loss of light.  
  • Overlooking homes – causing loss of privacy. 

Accept the decision – 

Finally, your other option is to just accept the decision. Sometimes there will be circumstances in which your planning application will be denied. And there is nothing anyone can do about it.

You now know how to handle the situation, if your planning application is denied. Finding the best option is dependent upon the terms of refusal and on your determination to get what you want. 

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Architecture & Building

Learn all about Biodiversity in architectural design  

21st February 20230

What is biodiversity?  

Firstly, biodiversity is the variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat, a high level of which is considered important and desirable. Its important because it boosts the ecosystems productivity, where each species has an important role to play.  

How can architecture help biodiversity? 

The impact architecture has on the ecosystem is enormous. In addition architecture can contribute to biodiversity by creating habitat opportunities as part of new developments. Planted roofs, roadside trees, together with larger green infrastructure like parks and wetlands, can foster biodiversity by providing habitat for breeding, shelter and food for birds, pollinators and other animals.   

Architects impact biodiversity in five main ways:  

  • Decisions regarding roofs, walls, landscape 
  • Conservation and rehabilitation of existing structures 
  • Materials used in construction – their sourcing, assembly, and disposal 
  • Adverse effects of buildings in terms of air and water pollution  
  • Resources needed to sustain buildings in use. Energy, water, etc.  

Ways you can increase biodiversity –  

Protect and restore the design –  

This is the first and most important rule. You should get to know local ecology and protect it. If you are building in a degraded area, you should try to understand its past and see if you can restore what was there previously.  

Diversity –  

Furthermore, to avoid disease, pests, and to support biodiversity you should select plants from a maximum of 30% of the same family, 10% of the same genus, and 20% of the same species. 

Use native species –  

If an urban environment is so different, some native species may not flourish in it. If you aim to increase biodiversity in the plants and animals’ kingdoms, the native species will support the wild life.  

How does architecture help the environment?  

Finally, architects need to make buildings that are friendly and green to the environment which can be adaptable to the surroundings. Meaning they need to create more eco-friendly and energy efficient buildings.  

Credits: https://learning.open-city.org.uk/bugs-in-the-city/
Advice Center

How to make your home more energy efficient?  

20th February 20230

Before you remodel your home or design a new one you should consider investing in energy efficiency, especially during this cost-of-living crisis. You will save energy and money and your home will be more comfortable.  

How energy efficient is your home?  

The first step in this process is to find out how much energy your home uses. And what is the most effective way to improve it. If your home has an energy performance certificate, it will help you identify any possible improvements. You can find any current or expired EPC in the UK on the government’s website.  

The main aspects of an energy efficient home –  

There are often 3 main aspects that are crucial when achieving an energy efficient home design, and they are:  

  • Air quality – 

Adding high quality insulation to your home will make it more air tight. The tighter the air the more heat it retains. However, it’s important to install a good ventilation system. This will allow you to remove the moist air that builds up in your home, without losing heat.  

  • Insulation 

Choosing the right insulation is important when it comes to retaining as much heat as possible. There are many effective ways to insulate your home, which can reduce heat loss. For example: cavity wall insulation, floor insulation, windows and doors, solid wall insulation, etc.  

  • Heating and cooling –  

Since the gas prices are increasing homeowners are looking for the best ways to save some money. Once your home is properly insulated you won’t need as much heat to maintain a comfortable temperature. This is a benefit because you will use less oil, gas or electricity.  

Can reducing a home’s energy efficiency help combat climate change?  

Homes that use energy supplied from the burning of fossil fuels are responsible for a large amount of carbon dioxide emissions. This means improving the energy efficiency of a home can reduce the burning fossil fuels.  

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Advice Center

Conservation Area: Your Questions Answered

8th February 20230

A conservation area is an area of special architectural or historic interest, the character of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance. And in other words, the features that make it unique. So, conservation areas protect all the natural resources that are critical to people on earth. The protected areas provide for life’s essentials.    

What does it mean to live in a conservation area?  

Living in a conservation area can make it more difficult to make changes to your home. You will be able to alter your home. However, if you decide to make the smallest of alterations, you will need to apply for planning permission. For example, replacing your doors and windows.  

Is a conservation area the same as AONB? 

AONB stands for an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. They are similar but are not the same. An AONB are areas in the countryside in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. They are areas that have been designated for conservation due to its significant landscape value.  

Is it worth buying a property in a conservation zone?  

If you are happy to live with the restrictions in place regarding maintenance and home improvements, then you should buy a home in an area like this. Whereas, if you have a more creative side and enjoy renovating then purchasing a home outside a conservation area might be best for you. In addition, living in a conservation area is likely to increase the value of your home as your neighbourhood is very appealing and will stay that way.  

How many conservation areas are in the United Kingdom?  

In early 2021, there were just under 9,800 unique conservation areas in England. They provide heritage protection for around 2.3% of England’s land area and over 10% of properties.  

Can I change the exterior of my house?   

Permitted development allows you to alter the exterior of your home looks as long as you build with materials that match the property’s existing look. Furthermore, if you’d like to change your property exterior look completely you will need to apply for full planning permission.  

Photo courtesy of BlogTO.
House Extension

Front House Extension Rules: Can You Extend

13th December 20220

Whenever you plan to add a front house extension, there are some rules that you need to follow. Like any other house extension, there are some limits on how high, wide and far you can go. If the design does not comply with these rules then you have to apply for planning permission.

It does not mean that this process is negative. It is just difficult and can make your project stressful. Furthermore, it can take many weeks to complete and will cost you extra money. Anyhow, if you are following the rules then you can skip this process and build a front house extension. You can add a room to the front of your house without any worry.

The rules with this type of extensions are very strict. The reason is that you are extending towards the front of the house. It means towards a public highway and hence there are stringent rules.

On the other hand, this type of extension provides you with options to have extra space for living and make some changes to the exterior. You can use this space to build a lounge, kitchen, or a bedroom.

The rules for a front extension are very much similar to the side and rear extension. There are lots of things to consider before you start work. If you want to extend the front, you first need to check whether there is already an extension, because the rules can be different if you already had an extension.

To avoid the daunting process of planning permission, you need to build the extension within “Permitted Development”.

It is better to contact previous owners before starting the work.

Front House Extension Rules to Follow

Some of the rules are as follows:

  • The size of the front house extension should not be greater than the land around the house.
  • You can make an extension higher than the existing roof.
  • You need to make sure that the materials you are using are the same.
  • If your house situated near the public highway; you cannot build an extension under permitted development rights.
Extensions

Timber Frame Extension: Learn About Planning, Finishes, and Costs

12th December 20220

There are several great benefits of a timber frame extension other than the added value and extra space for your home. It is possible to achieve a weathertight stage in days with this extension. It also means that you need to spend less time on-site and it does not depend on the weather conditions.

Once you have built a timber frame extension, it can sustain for longer. Furthermore, it provides good airtightness and thermal performance. So, if you are planning this extension, then it is essential to consider a proper frame manufacturer and best exterior finish. However, it all depends on your budget and whether the projects need planning permission.

Is A Timber Frame Extension Cheaper Than Other Extensions?

If we talk about the cost of timber frame extension then yes, it is an affordable choice compared to other traditionally-built extensions. One of the reasons is that it requires few labour hours to complete the work.

Furthermore, it is easy to estimate the time required to complete the project because it does not depend on the weather conditions. You can even carry out the work in winter months. If you are planning to apply for a mortgage, then you should keep in mind that your external finish is of primary importance. Many lenders are limited to external finish they accept, which can limit your choice of lenders.

Another important thing that you should keep in mind is that your project should add value to your house.

Do You Need Planning Permission?

Well, you do not need planning permission if you meet specific criteria, then you can build a timber frame extension under permitted development rights. But if your criteria are outside the scope, then you need planning permission from the local council.

We always recommend our readers to double-check the authorities before they start working. But if your property is located in a conservation area, then it is necessary to apply for planning permission.

Does it Can Be Built on Site

Most of this extension built using timber frame and all of the panels for the structure are made up on site. They do not get manufactured in a factory. You will need the help of a structural engineer to design it and prepare the specifications such as grade and size of timbers. After that, a joiner will make up the frame panels on site.

You will also find out that the manufacturers do not provide any quote for the extension projects. The reason is that they need lots of technical input for a new build.

Exterior Finishes for the Timber Frame Extension

You can use a variety of materials for the exterior finish, including:

  • Rendered brickwork
  • Facing Brick
  • Reconstituted Stone
  • Brick Slips
  • Natural Stone
  • Fibre Cement Cladding
  • Render board system
  • Timber
  • Metal Cladding

Tips for Building Timber Frame Extension

  • First of all, you need an architectural services provider with years of experience with timber frame extensions
  • We will recommend you to take quotes from at least three architectural services providers to make sure you are getting the best rates
  • We always advise our clients to have a 10% buffer budget for any unforeseen expense.

Types of Timber Frame Construction

Open-Panel Systems

In this construction as sheet material is fixed to the softwood frame. However, the inner face is left open for the plumbing, insulation and electrics. Once every work is done, the structure is closed up.

Closed-Panel Systems

It is same as the open-panel systems, but the main difference is that the insulation is already fitted and ducts are in place for the services.

Keep in mind that the panels are provided without windows and doors. However, some manufacturers give the panels fully glazed external joinery.

Cost of Timber Frame Extension

As we mentioned earlier that this extension costs less than other traditional extensions. The main reason is that you need fewer labour hours. A person should expect to pay £1,800 per square meter.

There are some expensive materials such as oak, which will you around £2,400 per square meter. In short, it is the most cost-effective extension in Scotland but can cost more in Wales, Northern Ireland, and England. You should keep in mind that the original cost of any extension depends on what you want. For example, if you need an additional storey roof, then the price will be higher. However, it is still cost-effective if the structure is made of timber.

Factors that can affect the cost include:

  • Frame type
  • Amount of Insulation and its type
  • The thickness of the frame
  • Prefabrication
  • Specifications of glazing
  • Location and choice of external cladding.

Benefits of Timber Frame Extension

  • One of the best benefits is that timber is lightweight compare to other choices. Due to the lightweight, it is easy to deliver the large modules made off-site.
  • If your house is small and has limited space, then you can manufacture the modules off-site.
  • Furthermore, it allows you to create large rooms, galleried ceilings with character, and you can use different finishes outside the house.
Advice Center

How Much Does It Cost to Build A House in the UK?

7th December 20220

As an architectural services provider, our clients often ask this question, “How much does it cost to build a house in the UK?”. After delivering more than 500 projects includes, including renovations, extension, conversions, and designing new houses and flats in the UK, we have concluded that the cost of a project depends on the drawings and quality of the materials. It is the only best way to estimate the cost of building a new house. There are various factors involved while calculating the cost.

Various industry standards can help in calculating the cost of building a house at the development stage. You can get a reasonable estimate, even if you do not have building regulations, drawings, and planning permission for your project.

The Cost of Building A House in London is the Second Highest
in the World

One of the factors that affect the cost is the location. The cost of building a house in one part may be highest to another. For example, the value of a property is the second-highest in central London.

However, there are various other factors too that influence the cost of building a house. The first factor is the location, and the others are competition for tenders, designs, and specifications. Another significant factor is the cost of labour which account for 40-45% of the total cost.

In this article, we are going to provide you with cost advice, which can help you determine the cost of your project. We are going to use industry standards in the UK. Furthermore, we will discuss three main factors that affect the cost and how you can prevent unforeseen expenses.

Design

Whenever someone decides to build a house, they have a budget. There is nothing more exciting than owning a new house. But you start building the home without proper planning, and then you realize that the cost of building increased. So, how you can cope with such unforeseen
consequences?

We know that it is a frustrating situation for anyone. It is also true that after such an incident, a person will want to band its head against a wall. Do not worry! We will give some advises that will help you prevent these mistakes from happening. The design of a house has a significant effect on the building cost. Hence, it is essential to work with some having a pleasant experience with designing projects similar to yours. The architectural services provider will help make your dream home a reality according to your requirements and taste.

Another important thing is to hire an experienced builder who understands the cost of a project. We have seen that many contractors under-quote a project, especially the design and build contracts. To avoid this, we will recommend you to hire an independent designer and make sure
that they are designing the project from the beginning. The architectural service providers must provide contractors with building regulations, tender drawings, and planning permission at the tender stage. This should be done before work starts to make sure that the builders can understand the design and estimate the cost. You should follow this process to make sure that the builder does not change the price during the construction.

Specifications

Whenever we start building our new home, there are lots of options in terms of specifications and designs. These choices have a significant effect on the overall building cost of a house. High-quality means, you are going to spend more money on the project. These choices are about finishes, specifications, and fixtures of your project. Keep in mind that these choices also affect the speed of construction.


It is the responsibility of the architectural service providers to make decisions about the materials of the project. They should understand the cost of specific materials and how they can put more financial burden on the project. You must be asking why the details of specifications are so
important. Well, they are essential to complete the job. Hence, you need to know about them and the materials for determining the actual cost of the project.


The tender documentation must be accurate because it is the only way to build a house within an acceptable range. If you are planning to make changes in the drawings, then it can increase the cost by a significant sum.

Project Manager

The method of managing the project can also affect the cost of building a house in the UK. If you think that you can handle this on your own then you can save some money. If you do not know about the building process, then we will recommend you to hire a project manager.