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.

Whether you’re renovating your existing home, or taking on a new project, there’s nothing more satisfying than a newly renovated property. But getting there isn’t always straightforward, especially if it's an old house. We’re here to make sure that your renovation doesn’t cost more time, money and stress than you’d bargained for.

Most of us imagine that at some point in the future we'll be living in our own home and some of us even dream of self-building. When the time finally arrives, choosing the right plot of land to build on can be daunting. There are several factors to take into consideration in order to find the ideal plot of land.

The family is expanding, and space is becoming tighter than usual. There's no real potential for new mortgages or house hunting, and quite frankly, your family unit is quite happy where they are. Sound familiar? If it does, you're probably already considering an extension to your home. But building extensions can be complicated too. For starters, there's the process of getting planning permission. Don't worry! This article aims to provide you with a better understanding of extension planning permission and how to ensure that it's granted to you.

Many people are now looking at different ways to get on the property ladder. One increasingly popular method that you may be thinking about is a self-build home. This type of project not only allows you to build the house you want, where you want but also gives a real sense of achievement when completed.

Many people dream of buying a house and doing it up. But, unless you know what you're doing, understanding the processes involved and the challenges that may arise can be tricky.

Old property, new heating system

BDS Architecture Ltd are renovating and and extending this Edwardian property. Here you can see the kitchen extension really coming along. Internal works are really taking shape including the fitting of the underfloor heating.

For many years this soon to be renovated chalet was just a concrete block shell being used for storage. Last year the property was acquired by a new owner who wanted to transform the space into a family home. BDS Architecture Ltd had the pleasure of designing a suitable layout for the existing building to make it into a fabulous four bedroom family living space. The above photo shows the property half way through it's renovation.

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.

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.