On the lookout for your dream countryside home? A barn conversion might be perfect for you. Barn conversions are an easy way around the planning restrictions that can make building your own home from scratch challenging. Plus they come with the added bonuses of having historical charm and plenty of character. Embarking on a renovation project can be hugely rewarding (wouldn't it be nice to wake up to idyllic views every morning?), but there are a number of important aspects to keep in mind beforehand. Here's what you need to know.

On some levels, good domestic and commercial architecture have a lot in common. Both private and public buildings need strong integrity and infrastructure, both must be aesthetically pleasing, and both must be compliant with regulations. However, there are key differences between home and commercial architecture, and every professional who works with you on your project should be familiar with them.

The foundation of an extension is equally as important as that of the main house. It needs to be built to last and support the new additional structure. Here are four types of foundations suitable for anchoring an extension.

We have said it before and we will say it again, foundations are the most critical part of any building. Unfortunately, they can be the most expensive too. It's not just the cost of laying foundations that make this part of the building process so expensive. It's also the fact that there can be many unforeseen problems that crop up. Dealing with complicated foundations can become expensive.

 House Design Visualisation

BDS Architecture Ltd have designed this four bedroom house to replace to an ageing bungalow.  The new house design incorporates a large floor to ceiling window to take in the surrounding view from the interior.

BDS Architecture Ltd are in the midst of extending this gorgeous brick built cottage set in the beautiful Derbyshire countryside. The extension is being completed to the rear of the property, maximising on large windows to take in the breath taking view from the interior.

Building their own dream home from the ground up is a big goal for many people. Achieving this goal is easier than you think if you use the right architectural designer. Architects can assist you with the entire process of designing and building your new home. The individual or firm you choose will have a significant impact on the final product and the experience involved in building your home, so it is important that you choose the right local architect for your needs.

Extending your living space can be one of the most exciting things you do to your home. Maybe you have envisioned making adjustments since you bought the property or due to a change in circumstances you need more living space.

Sometimes it is difficult to envisage what your new house will look like in real life. Here at BDS Architecture we can take your design drawings and bring them to life with a computer generated 3D image. Not only a great way to understand drawings better but they can also smooth out any build issues before any construction costs are incurred!...

When looking for an architectural designer for your self-build project, how do you know which one to choose? Chances are this is the first time you’ve ever commissioned an architectural designer and we wouldn’t be surprised to hear it’s the first time you’ve planned to have a new home built or an extension added to your existing property.