Off-Grid Planning Permission in the UK: Key Things You Should Know Thinking about off-grid living? You’re not alone. More people are exploring simple, sustainable lifestyles. But off-grid planning permission is essential to understand. Although the dream of escaping the grid is strong, UK planning law still applies. However, not everything requires full planning approval. In[…]
Net Zero vs Passive House What’s the Difference? A lot of people assume that net zero and passive house mean the same thing. They don’t. Let’s clear up the confusion. Net Zero = Energy In = Energy Out A net zero home produces as much energy as it consumes over a year. You can get[…]
What’s Happening in the UK Housing Market in 2025? The UK housing market has been anything but predictable in recent years. From interest rate hikes to housing shortages, change is constant. For buyers, renters, and investors, staying informed is key. Whether you’re looking to move or simply curious, this update helps you understand what’s really[…]
Bringing the Outdoors In: The Rise of Garden Home Offices Garden home offices are becoming a popular solution for remote work. More people now work from home. Because of this, many want a better space than the kitchen table. By bringing the outdoors in, these garden rooms offer something special. They create a quiet, focused[…]
Introduction When planning a build or renovation, thinking outside the box is often the best way to save money. Clever design doesn’t just look good—it avoids waste, reduces costs, and creates homes that grow with you. As an architectural technician, I work with homeowners to unlock creative solutions. These ideas often cost less but deliver[…]
UK Planning Rules for Garden Offices: What You Need to Know If you’re thinking about adding a home workspace, understanding UK planning rules for garden offices is essential. Many homeowners assume they can build freely in their garden, but that’s not always the case. With the rise in remote working, garden offices are more popular[…]
Should You Submit Pre Planning Advice – The Key Pros and Cons Explained If you’re planning a new build, extension, or change of use, it’s worth considering pre planning advice. This early step lets you seek guidance from your local planning authority before submitting a full application. Many developers use this route to avoid surprises later.[…]
Introduction If you’re planning a home extension, retrofit or new build, understanding building regulations in the UK is essential. These rules ensure that your project is safe, energy-efficient, and built to last. But they can also feel a bit overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time tackling a building project. Don’t worry. Whether you’re Sarah and[…]
Introduction Wellness-focused extensions are more than an architectural trend—they’re a way to enhance your quality of life. Whether you’re craving a sunlit home office, a peaceful yoga room, or better indoor air quality, designing with wellness in mind blends beauty, sustainability and functionality. And the best part? You don’t need an unlimited budget to get[…]
Introduction If you’ve ever thought an architectural technician just “draws up the plans,” you’re not alone. But in reality, our role goes far beyond CAD software and construction lines. Whether you’re extending your home to suit a growing family, upgrading for energy efficiency, or dreaming of your first build, an architectural technician offers both the[…]