All Advice Articles

Do loft conversions add value to your house?

You're ready to make the commitment into expanding your home, and have a lot of space to play with, but which project is right for your home? Like ...

How much does it cost to convert a loft?

Loft conversions are a great way to add space and value to your home, but at what cost? This price will depend on the structure of your roof, the a...

How to do a loft conversion

A [loft conversion](https://resi.co.uk/case_studies/inchmery_road) is a great way to add space and value to your home. Whether you’re angling for a...

Is my house suitable for a loft conversion?

Converting your loft is the less traditional, but ever popular way, of adding space and value to your home, working from the top down. This loft ...

A guide to insulating your loft

It’s easy to forget about your loft, especially if it’s inaccessible or only used as a place to shove the Christmas decorations. However, with ener...

Types of loft conversions

There are four main types of [loft conversion](https://resi.co.uk/case_studies/inchmery_road) found in UK homes. A loft conversion can be used as a...

Everything you need to know about dormer loft conversions

It’s no secret that UK homes are facing a space shortage, especially in the high demand city areas. But with not enough new homes being built, and ...

Architect drawings for loft conversion: why do you need them?

Architectural drawings might sound fancy, but they’re an essential part of achieving a quality conversion. To make sure you’re not tempted to scrim...

5 ways to reduce costs when converting your loft

We know that going through a home improvement project can be a financially strenuous time for most, so we’ve compiled a little list of ways to put ...

5 loft conversion ideas for your home

A loft conversion is the perfect way to add space and value to your home, without going down the route of a traditional extension. What’s more, wit...

Happy Homes: making your home 'connected'

As part of our Happy Homes Survey, we’re taking the results our pioneering research uncovered and showing you how to apply it to your own household...

Happy Homes: making your home feel 'nourishing'

As part of our Happy Homes Survey, we’re taking the results our pioneering research uncovered and showing you how to apply it to your own household...

Happy Homes: making your home 'relaxed'

As part of our Happy Homes Survey, we’re taking the results our pioneering research uncovered and showing you how to apply it to your own household...

Happy Homes: making your home a 'mirror'

As part of our Happy Homes Survey, we’re taking the results our pioneering research uncovered and showing you how to apply it to your own household...

Happy Homes: making your home 'adaptable'

As part of our Happy Homes Survey, we’re taking the results our pioneering research uncovered and showing you how to apply it to your own household...

Happy Homes: making your home feel 'secure'

As part of our Happy Homes Survey, we’re taking the results our pioneering research uncovered and showing you how to apply it to your own household...

How to create a home that cares for your wellbeing

At Resi, we aim to be the pioneers of wellbeing-focused home design. That’s why, in 2020, we commissioned [The Science of a Happy Home report.](htt...

Why your local authority matters when extending

If you’ve decided to take the plunge into extending your home, there’s someone (or some people) you’re going to have to become very acquainted with...

What happens after you've obtained planning permission?

Getting planning permission or a lawful development certificate can take between 8-10 weeks, so it’s good to apply early. However, once you know th...

How to improve your chances of a successful planning application

Make sure your project gets the best start in life with our expert tips of achieving planning success… ## Pre-Application Don’t be afraid to sta...

How to build an annex without planning permission

Very few people get excited about planning, and if you did most of your friends would become very concerned. But [here at Resi](https://resi.co.uk)...

Do I need planning permission for my flat or maisonette?

Flats and maisonettes do not fall within your permitted development rights, meaning you will have to seek planning permission for changes you want ...

How long do you have to implement planning permission

Generally speaking, most planning permission __runs out after three years.__ Meaning, if you haven’t started work by this point, you’ll need to rea...

What are permitted development rights?

Permitted development rights are a type of general planning permission granted by Parliament. If your plans fall within certain restrictions, this ...

Reasons why planning permission is refused

Planning permission can be denied if your build is guilty of these offenses: - Your build overshadows a neighbour, causing loss of light - Your bu...

Explained: change of use and use classes

When facing the nitty gritty world of planning legislation, many homeowners can find themselves becoming lost in the jargon. No more so than with U...

Permitted development rights and the green belt

Permitted development rights and the green belt are two terms you may have heard in passing, but until you actual get into a big home project, you ...

Do I need planning permission for a conservatory?

If you’re looking to add more space to your home, a conservatory is not only an effective option, but a budget friendly one too. Typically cheaper...

What happens during the planning process?

Before you start worrying about the colour of your walls or what pictures to hang, you need to make sure that you have permission to go ahead with ...

How much value does planning approval add to your house?

When it comes to selling your home, everyone is after two things: a good price, and a quick turnaround. While there are many tips for getting the ...

Do I need planning permission?

Extending your home is an exciting and potentially value-adding project, but it can also be full of practical and administrative hurdles. From draf...

Make the most of the Larger Home Extension Scheme

If you’re planning on building a single storey rear extension under your permitted development rights, you can now take advantage of a doubled size...

Do you need planning permission for a loft conversion?

Short answer: maybe. Loft conversions come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, and whether or not you need planning permission will depend on these ...

Do I need planning permission for an orangery?

If you’re looking to get a little more sun into your home, an orangery might be the perfect choice. However, like many construction projects, you m...

A guide to home improvement in conservation areas

Conservation areas were introduced to help manage and protect Britain’s most prized areas. Whether they stand out due to their historic significanc...

Do you need planning permission for an extension?

Are you looking at extending your ground-floor? If so, planning permission has no doubt crossed your mind. Do you need it? What rules will you hav...

10 home improvements you can do without planning permission

Planning permission got you putting off that big project? Perhaps you’ve seen one too many planning nightmares in Grand Designs and have decided to...

Planning permission: changing a commercial property into residential

You see them films, perhaps in home magazines or as part of grand TV projects - the converted building. Once a church, now a home for four. Once a ...

What you CAN and CAN'T do after planning approval

With all the different stages of getting the green light, thumbs up, and go ahead, it can be tricky to understand when changes to your design can a...

Do I need planning permission for a garage conversion?

Whether you’re going for a new study, gym, bedroom, or playroom, you’re probably wondering whether or not your garage conversion needs planning per...

Do you know the cost of glazing?

Put simply, double glazing involves two panes of glass separated by a vacuum or inert gas (What’s that, you ask? Check our handy glossary for compl...

The pros and cons of hardwood floors

If you’re thinking of installing hardwood floors in your new conversion or extension, there are a few elements you need to consider. Hardwood floor...

How to choose your bi-fold doors

If you’ve decided that bi-fold doors are for you, you need to first make sure you’re choosing the right ones. Ensure that your investment will not ...

How to pick the right materials for your conservatory

So you’re [considering a conservatory](https://resi.co.uk/advice/home-extensions/do-conservatories-add-value-to-your-house), but which one is going...

A guide to structural glass and your extension

You might have spotted structural glass on either Grand Designs or in the pages of architectural magazines. It’s a popular material for making stun...

How to choose internal flooring for your extension

Internal flooring might feel like a finishing touch for your house extension or loft conversion, but it’s worth starting to think about it early in...

Myths about timber framed extensions

Unlike our Scottish counterparts, timber has never quite taken off in the rest of UK homes. Until now, that is. With more homeowners than ever tur...

Oak framed vs brick extension - which is best?

When it comes to building your home, making sure it stands up is a big priority. But what frame you buy is a question very much in the air. Do you...

Laminate or real wood flooring? Which is best for your house

When it comes floors, people tend to fall into two categories. Those who adore carpets, and those who can’t imagine life [without a hardwood floor]...

Everything you need to know before buying skylights

When it comes to getting natural light into your home, who doesn’t love a good skylight? Compared to glass ceilings, they’re a cost effective way t...

What is the best flooring for a kitchen?

Whether you’re looking to fully refurbish your kitchen, or just to give your floor a makeover, what material you choose can have a big impact on th...

The best bathroom features to lure in future buyers

So you’re looking to do up your bathroom, or maybe you’re adding in a new one, question is: what’s going to land you the most added value? After al...

Designing the ultimate personal haven for Mother's Day

Here are Resi, we’re always challenging ourselves to look at things differently. So on Mother’s Day we asked ourselves: what could architects do to...

Choosing the right kitchen worktop

There’s nothing more thrilling than walking into a beautiful new kitchen, so it’s no surprise that this is one of the most popular house extensions...

Infographic: 5 Ways To Let Light In

Don't let your home get left in the dark. Our experts have put together these tricks and tips for letting more light into your rooms. Whether you'r...

Home improvement ideas that add value to your home

With the prices of UK homes ever increasing, it’s never been more important to get in on the action. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best ways...

Best home improvement projects for your bedroom

If you’ve found yourself with some time on your hands and a little cash tucked away, why not tackle a couple home improvement projects? Not only ar...

Bedroom extension ideas: the balcony edition

If you’re looking to transform your bedroom, a balcony can work wonders. Not only do they add more space to your room, those large glazed doors bri...

The best modern conservatory trends

Conservatories have long been a part of British homes. Thanks to their ability to be crafted mainly off-site, they’re a cost effective way for many...

French, sliding, bi-fold - which doors are right for your extension?

Think doors are boring? Think again! If you’re undertaking a rear, side, or [wraparound extension](https://resi.co.uk/advice/home-extensions/guide-...

Rear Extension Ideas

Forget planning permission, forget building regulations, forget paperwork… for now, let’s have some fun and get stuck into brainstorming what your ...

Contemporary home design inspiration for 2019

Heading into 2019 with a desire to transform your home? Perhaps you’re finding your current space a little dated. Maybe too cramped? Not enough lig...

Loft conversion ideas for 2019

If there’s one resolution all homeowners can make this year, it’s that no space should be left going to waste. This is especially true for lofts. I...

Kitchen renovations to get you hungry for more!

Is the kitchen the heart of your home? A communal hub of romantic dinners, Sunday lunches, and feasts with friends? If so, make this the year you g...

Creating your own industrial kitchen design

When it comes to kitchen trends, no style is having more of a moment than the industrial model. Whether you want sleek modern finishes, or rustic t...

How to avoid your dormer becoming an eyesore

When it comes to adding both new space and value to your home, no project does it better than the loft conversion. However, finding the headroom an...

10 garage conversion ideas

If your garage is going spare, acting like a glorified storage unit, then it could be time to get this space working harder. Garage conversions are...

Top 5 interior design trends for 2019

*No one knows interior design like [MyBespokeRoom.com](https://www.mybespokeroom.com/), so we asked them to tell us what trends homeowners can expe...

Maximising space for a growing family

One of the most common reasons homeowners take on a new project is to prepare for a growing family. Whether this is by increasing their living spac...

How to design a safe (fun) home for children

When it comes to preparing for your home for kids, there’s plenty to consider. Not only do you want to make sure your home is safe for even the sm...

The best trends to makeover your bathroom

No matter your style or preference, we’re absolutely sure there’s a design trend out there that will WOW you. Kitting out your bathroom can be one ...

How to maximise the space in your home

When it comes to your home, no doubt you (and future buyers) want to have as much space as possible. However, in the last decade, homes have been g...

How to achieve a 'broken plan' home

It feels like for years the trend of open plan living has reigned supreme, yet a new contender is entering the ring. Broken plan living. A twist o...

5 home improvements you can do in a month

If you’re a busy person who has unexpectedly found themselves with a quiet month on their hands, you might be considering taking on a little home p...

5 bedroom features that'll transform your space

No other room better embodies the word ‘haven’ quite like the bedroom. From cosy Sunday mornings spent with tea in hand, to those lazy afternoons w...

5 feature wall ideas for 2019

When it comes to your home, who doesn’t want a little WOW factor? And if you’re looking for a bold way to transform either your living room, bedroo...

Living roofs: 5 things you need to know

Living roofs are going to be big in the next few years. How do we know? Every year we provide over 10,000 consultations to UK homeowners, and more ...

5 things to know about adding a mezzanine

First things first, what is a mezzanine? The easiest way of thinking about a mezzanine is to see them as a floating extra floor. Not big enough t...

House extension ideas: before and after photos

Are you in the mood for some home inspiration? If the answer is yes, then brace yourself for some before and after delights. While we all love to ...

10 garden room extension ideas on a budget

She shed, man cave, pod, retreat - whatever you call them, garden rooms are certainly on the rise. And it’s no surprise, as they not only offer t...

10 loft and attic storage ideas

One of the best things about converting your loft is all the storage options this opens up for your home. If you’re someone who’s looking for some...

Bi-fold door inspiration for your home

Bi-fold doors have been skyrocketing in popularity these last few years, with many of our own customers seeking out these folding wonders, and it’s...

How to create an eco-friendly home

With the climate emergency looming over us, and many people out on the streets calling for change, you might be wondering how you can do your part ...

15 genius ways to utilise the space under stairs

Don’t let the space under your stairs go to waste. With some help from your architect, even this area of your home can get the royal treatment. Whe...

15 loft bathroom ideas that utilise space brilliantly

Whether you want to create the en-suite of your dreams, a luxury spa experience, or you simply want to give guests (and moody teens) a space they c...

10 multifunctional kitchen diner ideas

Let’s start with a quick history lesson. Following the end of WWII, the kitchen underwent a major renovation. Before it was a space to be hidden a...

30 transformative flooring ideas for your home renovation

You might not think much of them day to day, but the floors we walk on play a big part in shaping our homes. Next to repainting the walls, replacin...

How to create a garden that's wildlife-friendly all year round

Think a garden is nothing more than a place to lounge in during summer? Think again! UK gardens have the potential to be wildlife saviours, yet so...

The bathroom trends that defined the 2010s

Hard to believe that the 2010’s are now behind us and what a decade it’s been! In terms of our homes, these last 10 years have seen us become bolde...

10 ways to reduce the cleaning in your home

Housework, does anyone really enjoy it? Sure, there are those rumoured tidy freaks, those who can’t wait to strap on a pair of yellow gloves, but t...

More is More: Tips for designing a maximalist home

Has the minimalism craze of the 2010s got you feeling… very little? Are you dying to add some colour to your home? A little bit of fun? Then welcom...

10 pitfalls to avoid when designing a new kitchen

If you’re looking for a way to breathe new life into your home, nothing is more invigorating than a brand new kitchen. When your kitchen is at it’...

How to create a garden on either a balcony or roof

Not everyone is blessed with green space, especially those living in flats or maisonettes. However, just because you’re lacking a traditional lawn,...

How to add a wet room to your home

Forget the wet rooms you might have known as a kid, nowadays they’re taking over modern bathroom design, providing a space-saving and stylish featu...

Adding the "WOW" factor to your dining room

If there’s one area you don’t want to fall flat it’s your dining room. After all, if you’re going through all that effort of putting together a thr...

10 tips for creating your own home office

Whether you’re working remotely out of choice or due to government intervention, getting your home office in order is a must to ensure you keep pro...

Kitchen renovation ideas

If you’re looking for kitchen renovation ideas, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve created plans for hundreds of [kitchens](https://resi.co.uk/...

10 things you need to know before extending your home

Not to put you off, but taking on a big home project - such as an extension, or conversion - is… well, big. Next to buying your home, it’s going to...

How much does a bathroom add to the value of a house?

__Typically, bathrooms have the potential to add between 4-5% onto your home’s value.__ But this can go up or down, depending on how you execute yo...

What’s the difference between a first and second fix?

If you’re planning any kind of house extension or loft conversion, you’ve probably heard someone using the terms "first fix" and "second fix", but ...

What's the best order to build? Top down or ground up?

## Question: We’ve recently purchased a semi-detached terrace house. We know that we’d like to add both a loft conversion and a ground floor exten...

What are the rules on house extensions?

We won’t lie to you, there are quite a few rules when it comes to building an extension. But this doesn’t have to put you off. Like any game, onc...

How to get freeholder consent for an extension

If you own the freehold of your building, you have the right to carry out any building work that you like on your property (as long as it adheres t...

Do conservatories add value to your house?

The conservatory - it’s a British classic. Despite being a rain drenched, cloudy isle, our eternal optimism for sunshine has made conservatories on...

A guide to wraparound extensions

When it comes to extending the rear of your property, you have two classic options: rear and side. But what if you could combine the two? This is...

How much does a side return extension cost?

A side return extension is a great way to increase the size of your kitchen without losing garden space. If you live in London you can expect to pa...

Converting your garage into a home gym

Are you a gym bunny, or someone looking for a serious kick in the fitness bum? If so, you might be considering installing your very own home gym. ...

Everything you need to know about basement conversions

So you’re considering a basement conversion, but not 100% sure whether your home is suitable, or if the end results are going to be right for your ...

5 things you need to know about glass roofs

If there’s one thing that can truly give your home the WOW factor, it’s a glass roof. Not only are they visually stunning, they can transform your ...

Can I add an extension to a listed building?

Living in a listed building is a great privilege, but it can be limiting if you decide you’d like to add more space through a house extension or lo...

Single storey extension ideas under £30,000

When it comes to extending your home, you don’t have to break the bank to get amazing results. While some single storey extensions can cost upwards...

5 key questions to ask your architect

Figuring out how to choose an architect for your home building can be tough. However, getting the *right* architect is even tougher, which is why i...

A guide to flat-pack extensions

With the price of stamp duty hammering homeowners, not enough homes on the market, and unstable house prices, more and more people are choosing imp...

How long does a house extension take?

Full disclosure: there’s no guaranteed timeline for any residential extension project. Depending on the size and scope of your extension, the lengt...

Do you need an architect for an extension?

Is it illegal to build an extension without an architect involved? No. However, just because architects aren’t a legal requirement, it doesn’t me...

How much does it cost to build a granny flat

Homes are changing and one big change is the rise of multi-generational homes. Either through adult children living at home, or older relatives nee...

7 tips to keep house extension costs down

There are two simple tips that will always save you money during a building project: don’t cut corners and pay attention. Here are 7 things you ca...

5 more questions to ask your architect

Not too long ago, we shared with you the [top five questions you should be asking your architect](https://resi.co.uk/advice/home-extensions/ask-you...

How much money can DIY save you on your extension?

If you’re looking to save money on extended your home, look no further - DIY is the answer! By taking on a few of the basic handy jobs, you could ...

5 things you need to know about home extension and timings

We’ve worked with a lot of homeowners - over 2000, in fact - and if there’s one thing that shocks people the most about remodelling it’s the time i...

The benefits (and pitfalls) of extending your home with a neighbour

Neighbours can get a bad reputation in the home extension game. You hear classic horror stories about the nightmare family next door, of vicious pa...

Barn conversions guide: planning permission, cost and ideas

Is there any project more quiescently British than a barn conversion? With their high ceilings, rustic beams, and general *country-ness*, who would...

How to build an energy efficient extension

Once the domain of hippies and guys named Dreadlock Dan, becoming energy efficient is now mainstream - especially for homeowners. Not only does it ...

Garden Rooms: the essential guide to creating your own

A garden room is a great way to get more usable space at home. Whether you need a home office, a place for the kids to hang out or a base for your ...

Two-storey extensions: cost, planning and design ideas

If you’re someone who doesn’t like to do things by half measures, you might be considering a two-storey extension. While they seem dramatic, there...

A guide to extending your maisonette

Just because you live in a maisonette, doesn’t mean you don’t have options. In fact, extending this house type has never been more popular. With ...

How much does an extension cost?

With interest rates increasing, more and more homeowners are turning to extensions, not upsizing, to give them some much needed space. In fact, [ne...

5 pitfalls to avoid when extending your home

Extending your home is a big project. Second to actually buying your home, it’s going to be one of the biggest financial commitments you’re likely ...

Where are all the residential architects?

Every architect wants to build a skyscraper. They’re towering, iconic and - if designed badly - can destroy a car (remember this...?). In fact, ov...

How well do you understand architectural jargon?

Here at [Resi](https://resi.co.uk/) our mission is to provide you with no-nonsense design and planning advice. Think of us as your personal guide t...

Using an architect to sell your house

As anyone who’s sold can testify, finding a buyer for your home can be an anxious time. No more so than when your home feels like it’s just languis...

Is a local architect always best?

Five years ago, if you were looking for an architect, you had two options: local or fancy. You could take your home project to an architect in your...

Do I need an architect to build a house?

In short: it’s very, very likely. Building a home is one of the biggest construction projects you can take on, requiring expert design skills and ...

The benefits of a free Resi consultation

Before you dive into your project, you’ll likely want to know what options are available to your home. This is where an architectural consultation...

How much does an orangery cost to build?

Orangeries are having a bit of a moment, after living in the shadows of conservatories for so long. Once built in the 17th and 18th century to hous...

Everything you need to know about your local authority

When it comes to extending, you’ve probably run your project past everyone you can think of. Your partner, your parents, your kids, friends, co-wor...

How much does it cost to build an annex?

If you’ve decided that erecting an annex is the right option for your home, make sure you’ve got your budget nailed down before you do so. It’s alw...

How much does it cost to build a rear extension?

We know that building an extension can seem daunting at first, not knowing where to start or who to talk to. But once you get the costings of your ...

Can my architect help me if my planning permission is refused?

While having your planning application refused may feel like the end of the world at the time, hang tight! It’s not the end of your home improvemen...

A guide to loft conversions and planning

Whether you plan on converting your loft into a bedroom, study, or new bathroom, you’ll need to consider which area of planning your project falls ...

Do I need an architect?

Whether you need an architect or not will depend on the home project you’re taking on - though you might be surprised how useful they can be, even ...

Money saving tips for building a house

If you’re braving the exciting world of house building, the prospect of the money involved might feel a little daunting. After all, it seems like e...

Drains, CCTV surveys, and build over agreements

Drains: they’re not the most glamorous part of a household, but when it comes to extending you might be surprised by how big their role is. Every ...

How much does it cost to build a house?

If you’ve got the patience, the dedication, and the resources, you might be the kind of person who takes on the challenges of a self-build project....

What percentage of construction cost do architects charge?

Clients could expect to pay architects around 7-10% of the construction cost from their project. Architects' fees can be calculated in three ways:...

How much does a kitchen extension cost?

Often referred to as the heart of the home, it’s no wonder [kitchen extensions](https://resi.co.uk/advice/design-and-inspiration/kitchen-renovatio...

Cost cutting tips for your rear extension

Who hasn’t switched on Grand Designs and thought: *I would love to do something like that, if I had the money.* Well, we’re here to tell you that...

How to build a glass extension on a listed building

Whether you’ve bought, inherited, or are considering a listed building, many assume these protected buildings can’t enjoy modern extensions other h...

The dangers of a cheap architectural quote

If in your hunt for the perfect architect you’ve found one who’s offering an incredibly cheap service, you might be thinking: *is this too good to ...

How much does it cost to move house?

Moving house can be expensive. The average house price in the UK is just over £300,000 (rising to £1 million in London), so expect to pay around £2...

A guide to lawful development certificates

A lawful development certificate isn’t a legal requirement, but they are incredibly worthwhile to obtain. The certificate essentially proves to bo...

How much does it cost to get planning permission for an extension

If you’re about to apply for planning permission, or are wondering how fees have changed over the years, worry not! Our in-house planning team are...

5 benefits of using an architect

You’re looking at expanding or converting your home, and you find yourself thinking: do I even need an architect? Afterall, aren’t they just for fa...

Do I need an architect for planning permission?

Planning permission, if you’ve never taken on a home project before, it’s likely you’ve heard the horror stories. Tales about unruly planning offic...

Everything you need to know about downstairs toilet building regulations

There are many reasons to build a downstairs toilet. You might host regular parties and want a way to keep nosy guests from upstairs, or perhaps yo...

How much do architects charge?

Second to actually buying your home, an extension will be one of the biggest financial investments you under take. But don’t let that put you off! ...

Why are some architects cheaper than others?

Whether you’re extending, converting, or renovating your home, [an architect is one of the best assets you can have](https://resi.co.uk/advice/cost...

The best time for sorting out your finance when remodelling

It goes without saying that transforming your home becomes a lot harder when you don’t have the proper finance in place. That being said, few peop...

What type of finance do you need for home improvements?

When it comes to those big home improvements, it can be difficult to know where to start when it comes to financing the project. Often, as a resu...

How much does it cost to build a conservatory

They’re one of the most popular additions for British homes but how much will a conservatory set you back? __On average, a conservatory can cost a...

5 unexpected costs of extending your home

When taking on a big project like a rear extension, the last thing you want is to have your budget surprised by an unexpected cost. Yet with so muc...

How much does it cost to build an extension / conversion?

When it comes to construction, no doubt you’ve got one question in mind: how much is this going to cost? And why wouldn’t you be concerned? Whethe...

What to do in the event of a party wall dispute

So you’re getting ready to transform your home. You’ve done everything right so far. You’ve obtained planning permission. You’ve been given approva...

How much does a garage conversion cost?

On average, when it comes to converting your garage, you can expect to pay between £11,000 - £25,000 for your everyday home. However, like most co...

Introducing our new partnership with the Mortgage Advice Bureau

When you have good news that you want to share, it can be hard to keep it to yourself. That’s why it’s been so tough these last few months for our ...

How VR can help bring your project to life

Did you know that VR (Virtual Reality) has been around since the 1960s? Back in the day, it consisted of a giant machine called The Sensorama, whic...

What's the difference between freehold and leasehold?

## Freehold As freeholder of a property, you own it outright and that includes the land it’s built on. Generally speaking, most houses are freehol...

Splitting your house into two maisonettes

There are numerous reasons to consider splitting up your home. It could be you’re looking to downsize after the kids have moved out. Or that you’re...

What exactly is a maisonette?

Sure, everyone’s heard of a flat, but what about its lesser known cousin, the maisonette? Well, as the linguists among us could probably guess, a m...

What is a structural engineer and why do you need one?

Architect. Surveyor. Structural engineers. When it comes to big home projects, you often find yourself confronted with a list of professionals tha...

Best ways to add value to a maisonette

Improving the home is no longer limited to those wanting to climb their way up the property ladder. These days it’s the norm to add value not just ...

Resi 2.0: Introducing the new customer dashboard

This week we’re incredibly excited to announce the release of version 2 of the Resi Dashboard! This Dashboard is a unique online platform that we...

Ultimate guide to the UK's homebuilding and renovating shows 2019

Rather than spend hours trawling through Google, or pestering friends for recommendations, trade shows offer a fantastic alternative to sourcing gr...

We're calling on the government to cut VAT on home improvements

A recent national survey by Resi, the Homeowner’s Alliance and YouGov found that a third (31%) – approximately 5.3 million – of UK homeowners pay c...

Who are Resi?

We’re the UK's leading architecture practice for everyday homeowners. Since opening our doors in 2017, we’ve helped transform over 1500 properties ...

Pitched vs flat roofs - which should you build?

Whether you’re extending, converting your garage, or building your dream home, you’re going to need a roof. This is Britain, after all. For many, ...

5 ways to get the most out of a home show

Home and Interior Design shows are fantastic events for anyone looking into home improvement. However, if you’ve never been to one before, they can...

Do I need an architect or structural engineer?

Unless you’ve done a big home project before, you might find yourself bamboozled by the list of professionals your extension or conversion might ne...

Home remodelling vs buying a new home - which is better?

When you’ve become tired of staring at the same four walls, you might find yourself thinking: something needs to change. This leaves many homeowne...

Resi becomes one of the first 'Good Work Standard' employers in London

This week, Resi is very excited to announce that we’ve been recognised by the Mayor of London as one of the city’s first Mayor’s Good Work Standard...

A guide to window frames for your home

If you’re in the process of an extension or perhaps a renovation, you might be considering what to do with your windows. While many mull over the...

Brexit: Should I still extend my house?

Every week, we provide free consultations to hundreds of homeowners across the UK. And in recent months, we’ve noticed one question is coming up mo...

Knocking down walls! Resi sponsors Dulwich Hamlet's F.C.

Football season is here and we couldn’t be more excited! Why? Because this year, we’ve become one of Dulwich Hamlet F.C’s official sponsors. The t...

10 things to consider before buying a renovation property in the UK

When it comes to buying a new house, if you’re not afraid to roll up your sleeves, you might have been tempted by a ‘fixer-upper’. These renovation...

How Resi can cut your extension times in half

Cut times in half, you say, how is that possible? Well you’d be surprised. Not only has Resi transformed the way homeowners can complete their pro...

10 home remodelling mistakes people make early on

The home horror stories, we’ve all heard at least one. The couple who picked a dodgy builder, the family who ended up in a war with their neighbour...

Log burning stoves: are they right for your home?

Whether you’re reading this in December or July, no one can deny the pleasure of curling up by a real fire when the weather turns icy. Because of t...

New year resolutions for your home in 2020

Whether you’re reading this at the start of the year or towards the end, no doubt you’ve landed here because you want to use 2020 as a year to unlo...

Introducing... Resi's new build service!

This week we have some very exciting news… the launch of our new build service - our *new new builds*, you could say. In taking on new builds, we...

A guide to planning out the lights in your home

Because of the disruption involved, if you’re looking to spruce up the lighting in your home, an extension, conversion, or renovation offers the be...

Beware the party wall ambulance chaser!

Unless you’ve encountered them yourself, it’s unlikely you’ll know anything about these dodgy practitioners. However, party wall ambulance chasers ...

Frequently asked questions: building and party walls

Party walls can be tricky things, tricky in the sense that they’re either a breeze for the homeowner, or a legal nightmare. If you’re worried your ...

What is a party wall agreement?

A party wall agreement is, as it says on the tin, a legal agreement made between you and your neighbours regarding any building work occuring that ...

A guide to caring for happy house plants

Whether you’ve been getting your inspiration from home magazines, Pinterest, or even Resi's [own Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/resi_uk/), yo...

How to make your garden or balcony more private

When those first few rays of spring sunshine start to appear, naturally our thoughts turn to our gardens and spending more time outside. However, n...

What types of floor plans should I commission?

If you’re thinking about extending or converting your home, the best place to start is with a set of floor plans. In fact, you can’t build without ...

What types of construction drawings do I need for my building project?

Whether you’re planning a house extension, loft conversion or new build, you always need to begin with a set of architectural floor plans. A good...

Do I need an architect to renovate my home?

If you’re building a new home from scratch or going for a big extension, it might seem obvious that you need an architect by your side - but what a...

How much does it cost to have house plans drawn up?

We’re back, answering some of the most common questions we’ve seen floating around on the internet. Today’s is one that frequently pops up… “How m...

UK Policy: statement on potential digital tax

*After being quoted in The Times on potentially taxing tech giants, such as Google and Facebook, Resi CEO Alex Depledge shares this statement:* Qu...

What are building regulations and do you need them?

You’ve got your plans approved, so what happens next? More paperwork - hurray! However much you may want to zoom past the ‘boring bits’, and get s...

What are the rules around building regulations and electrical work?

When you hear building regulations, you might suspect that such a thing couldn’t possibly apply to either your professional rewiring or DIY job. Su...

What's the deal with building regulations and outbuildings?

It’s unlikely that in day to day conversation you’ll hear the phrase ‘building regulations’ or ‘outbuildings’ come up, not unless you hang around w...

Explained: building regulations and staircases

You might look at stairs and not think much of them, but this home essential comes with a lot of rules and regulations - namely, [building regulati...

Approved inspectors vs Local authority building control

When it comes to complying with building regulations, you have two options on who can approved your technical drawings - your local building contro...

How building regulations affect removing your chimney

If your living room is feeling cramped, or you just want to free up some space in your bedroom, removing a chimney might be the right move for you....

Why you need an architect during building regulations

Building regulations, they’re confusing. Unless you’ve completed a project before, it’s likely these technical requirements are new ground for you,...

Do you need a party wall surveyor?

If your project is affected by a party wall matter, you might have heard the term ‘party wall surveyor’ batted about. But how can this professional...

A guide to 'fast-tracking' your project

When it comes to improving your home, many homeowners are a little shocked by the timings involved. Planning alone can take over 10 weeks, to say n...

Case study: A modern ground floor kitchen extension for a growing family

Resi was recently approached to design a ground floor wraparound extension for a detached home in Dartford. Lee wanted to maximise the value of his...

Case study: Nick's rear extension

When Nick bought his home, he bought it knowing it would turn into a big project. Dilapidated and cramped, it was a building that was in some serio...

Case Study: I chose the cheapest contractor quotes and paid for it!

Before becoming a Resi founder, Alex Depledge took on what she thought was going to be a simple side extension for her London home. What followed w...

Case study: Alex's side return

"As with hassle.com, Resi began in response to a real world frustration. In 2016, I embarked on a 2.5m x 9m side extension on my maisonette in So...

Should I get bi-fold doors?

Bi-fold doors are a popular choice, both for patio or garden access, or to separate a living room or kitchen from a conservatory. Wherever you pu...

Conservatory vs. Orangery

## What came first, the Conservatory or the Orangery? Because the chicken and the egg are so 2017. Officially, the orangery came first, originati...

The pitfalls of 'design and build' companies

If you’re pursuing an extension or conversion, you’re probably considering a range of companies for your project. Perhaps some of them are architec...

What is tendering? Everything you need to know.

Putting your project out for tender is when a homeowner looks to secure the services of a contractor. It’s an important part of any project, wheth...

How to insulate your new garage conversion

Thinking about extending your garage? If you have, you may have thought about decor, what kind of room you’ll create, maybe even how you’ll remove ...

A guide to groundworks, foundations, and your extension

With all your permissions in place, and your professionals hired, it’s time to dive into construction, right? Well, almost. Before any tangible bu...

Could you project manage your own home

## What do Project Managers do? A project manager is there to organise the creation of your build, making sure your project is completed on time, ...

Do you stay or rent when you renovate with children?

It’s no surprise that one of the most common reasons homeowners extend is to accommodate a growing family. But what happens to your family when you...

A guide to choosing a good builder for your home

If you’re worried about your home becoming a cowboy horror story, or struggling to make sense of the options near you, listen to the expert advice ...

Dangers of a cheap contractor quote

While finding the best man for the job should be your number one priority, it’s only natural that price is going to play a big factor in who you pi...

What Resi's new TrustMark partnership means for our customers

This week we’re very excited to announce our official partnership with [TrustMark!](https://www.trustmark.org.uk/) [TrustMark is the Government E...

What is a project manager and do you need one?

When it comes to getting the best possible result from construction, having a project manager on board can be just the ticket. Not only can they h...

How we pick our Connect professionals

It’s no secret, to unlock the most potential in your home, you need the best professionals by your side. Whether you’re renovating, converting, or...

5 common construction contract mistakes

It’s not something most homeowners think about when they decide on [an extension](https://resi.co.uk/advice/cost-and-planning/how-much-does-it-cost...

10 mistakes too many people make during construction

If you’ve made it through the trials of planning and building regulations unscathed, it means you’re ready for the most hazardous leg of your journ...

A guide to types of contractors and builders

When it comes to construction, you’re likely going in knowing you need a builder - but what kind? Contractors come in all shapes and sizes, each w...

Construction timelines for converting or extending your home

You’ve got creative in design, been given the thumbs up in planning, found the perfect contractor and even got approval from building control. All ...

How to avoid cowboy builders and construction disaster

The UK has long been plagued by cowboy builders, why? Because anyone who wants to be a builder, can be. No qualifications. No licensing. If you cal...

How many quotes should you get for construction?

Home design? Sorted. Planning permission? Nailed it. Building regulations? Don’t even worry about it. It looks like you’re all ready to go into c...

What is ICF (Insulated Concrete Formwork) construction?

Though it’s been around since the 1970s, only now is ‘Insulated Concrete Framework’ building starting to gain some mainstream appeal - and it’s not...

A guide to insurance, construction, and protecting your home

After planning and building regulations, we can understand why a lot of homeowners feel overwhelmed with the admin, perhaps a little less than enth...