How much do Interior Designers charge?

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How much do Interior Designers charge? If you’ve already researched interior designer’s fees online, you may have discovered how difficult it is to find industry standards or rules of thumb; a good general estimate is difficult to find… The cost of your interior designer will depend on several things, such as their experience and expertise, but also the… Read more »

Hiring a designer: important questions to ask

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Profile pics from Dean, Elisa and Liam, architects on DfM.

Hiring a designer is an important decision since this person will have a huge impact on your home and the way you live for potentially a very a long time. A good personal connection is key! Yes, of course, compare quotes. But there is so much more to the decision than this, and it’s personal. You’ll… Read more »

How Much Does an Architect Cost in the UK? [2025 Guide]

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New for 2025: Based on survey data from over 100 practising residential architects across the UK, this guide provides clear, current cost benchmarks for hiring an architect and budgeting for home extension.   What You’ll Learn Typical construction cost benchmarks for home extensions How much architects charge Typical consultant and engineer fees to factor in… Read more »

Exterior sliding / folding doors – design inspiration

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Folding doors, bifold doors, sliding doors, concertina doors… what’s the difference? Folding doors, bifold doors, concertina doors, patio doors… there seem to be so many names for these glazed doors that open out to your garden but essentially they mean the same thing! Fully glazed doors have become incredibly popular and are a bit of… Read more »

how much should I budget for interior design?

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When it comes to budgeting for interior design, the approach can vary depending on the value of your home. As a guideline, we suggest 7-12% of the property’s value for a complete redecoration and refurbishment. The final decision should be based on your unique preferences and priorities. Let’s explore how you can adapt your budget… Read more »

Cheapest Way to Build a House UK

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Open plan kitchen

What’s the cheapest way to build a house in the UK? More and more people in the UK are considering building their own home, particularly as getting onto the housing ladder is becoming increasingly less affordable. There are new government initiatives to encourage self-building in an effort to help solve the nation’s housing crisis with… Read more »

Is It Time to Upgrade Your Bathroom?

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bathroom upgrade

A tired, outdated, or poorly functioning bathroom can affect your comfort, home value, and even your utility bills. But how do you know when it’s time to stop patching things up and start planning a bathroom renovation? Here are six common signs that it might be time to upgrade your bathroom, and what to do… Read more »

How much does a planning application cost?

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Profile pics from Felix, Jamie, Richard and Mark, architects on DfM.

In England, the fee for a householder planning application for alterations/extensions to a single dwellinghouse from December 2023 is £258. This fee is payable to your local council for processing your planning application. Costs may vary slightly depending on the type of application and location, so it’s always a good idea to check with your… Read more »

From Worn to Wow: How to Upgrade Your Existing Furniture Without Buying New

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Uppland sofa

Why Upgrade Instead of Replace? In a world where home décor trends change quickly, it’s tempting to toss out old furniture for something new. But replacing a perfectly functional sofa or armchair every season isn’t exactly budget-friendly or environmentally responsible. The good news? You don’t have to start over. With a few simple updates, you… Read more »

Log Homes in the UK: A Complete Guide for Self-Builders

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Log homes are increasingly being considered by UK self-builders seeking a sustainable and distinctive alternative to traditional brick or timber-frame houses. Combining natural insulation with a unique aesthetic, log homes offer real appeal for those looking to live closer to nature, while maintaining energy efficiency and modern comforts.     What Is a Log Home?… Read more »