Architectural designers will help you get the result you're after - and if you're after a truly bespoke design, the money is well spent.

Employing an Architectural Design Practice with experience of dealing with your local planning authority is important, together with sourcing the best local trades-people. Orange Key have access to the area's most respected builders whom they are happy to recommend for your project.

Continue Reading

Converting the loft can be one of the most cost-effective ways to add extra living space to a home. New rooms within the roof can benefit from sunlight for much of the day, make the most of any views, and can have tremendous character.

The roof space can be the ideal location for a new master bedroom, home office, or playroom, but the new rooms can be suitable for almost any residential use providing you comply with the Building Regulations. Unlike most extensions, a loft conversion adds space without building over the garden. The main sacrifice is the space required to accommodate a new staircase. Remember, before you do anything else, check with your designer that a loft conversion is actually viable. The amount of space you will have all depends on the height and pitch of the roof.

Continue Reading

Building an extension or adding outbuildings requires planning permission depending on the size of the project, and the level of permitted development rights afforded to the property.

Loft conversions may not be subject to the same constraints as a typical extension. However, you should be aware that certain alterations need planning permission, and will also be subject to building regulations. Permitted Development Rights allow for minor improvements to be made such as small extensions, porches or garage conversions. The cost for a householder application is currently £172 whilst a full application for a new dwelling is £385. Once a planning application is submitted, it will typically take 10 to 12 weeks before a decision is issued.

Continue Reading

The key to achieving the best possible result is to find the right team with experience of your local area.

Before briefing a design professional, you will need to make some decisions based on your personal preferences and living requirements. Your designer may suggest that the best option is to extend your property with the addition of cleverly integrated rooms, or renovate your home by opening up existing spaces. Consider which elements and features will add the most value; you are almost always onto a winner by adding a well-planned kitchen, a downstairs WC, converting your garage or by adding bedrooms and en-suites.

Continue Reading

Before work commences, most projects will need Building Regulations approval from Building Control, to ensure design and construction standards are achieved. You should check with your designer before starting work.

For Building Control applications, you will need a set of building regulation drawings and structural calculations. Local Authority Building Control application fees are based on the size and value of works. Your designer or contractor can usually manage the build project for you if it is not something you wish to do yourself. Finding the right builder is essential; choose trades-people based on their previous work and trusted recommendations — not on the cheapest quote. You should also ensure that they have 'contractors all risks insurance'. It is enormously helpful if you manage to find a small group of tradesmen, all of whom have several trades under their wing. This can be crucial in keeping continuity. As a guide, building an extension will typically cost upwards of £1,500 per/m2 + VAT.

Continue Reading

Almost all properties have building or renovation potential. Carefully considered design can add extra space to an existing property or improve the living spaces within.

New life can be given to any home by renovating, adding an extension, loft conversion or garage conversion. Completely overhauling the exterior of a property will transform not only it's look, but the way you feel about it; the good news is that there are ways of doing this to suit all budgets.

Continue Reading