Residential planning and architecture guides.
Clear, architect-reviewed guidance for homeowners, developers and property investors across England. Each guide explains the rules, practical design decisions, common risks and the next steps for a real project.
Plan with clearer information.
Start with the guide closest to your project, then follow the related links to understand planning, technical design, cost and approval requirements together.
Do I Need Planning Permission for a House Extension?
A practical guide to planning permission and permitted development for single and two-storey house extensions in England.
9 min read · Reviewed 22 July 2026Single-Storey Extension Planning Rules
Key permitted development and planning rules for rear, side and wrap-around single-storey extensions.
9 min read · Reviewed 22 July 2026Two-Storey Extension Planning Rules
Planning considerations for two-storey side and rear extensions, including amenity and street character.
9 min read · Reviewed 22 July 2026Loft Conversion Planning Permission
When loft conversions need planning permission and how permitted development rules apply.
9 min read · Reviewed 22 July 2026How Much Does an Architect Cost for a Residential Project?
How residential architect fees are structured for surveys, planning applications and Building Regulations.
8 min read · Reviewed 22 July 2026Building Regulations Drawings Explained
What Building Regulations drawings include and why they matter before construction.
10 min read · Reviewed 22 July 2026House to HMO Conversion Planning Guide
Planning, licensing, space standards and fire-safety considerations when converting a house into an HMO.
11 min read · Reviewed 22 July 2026Converting a House into Flats: Planning and Building Regulations
A guide to planning permission, space standards, sound insulation and fire separation for flat conversions.
11 min read · Reviewed 22 July 2026Does a Garden Room Need Planning Permission?
Permitted development rules for garden offices, studios, gyms and residential outbuildings.
8 min read · Reviewed 22 July 2026Lawful Development Certificates Explained
When to apply for a Lawful Development Certificate for proposed or existing residential works.
9 min read · Reviewed 22 July 2026Planning Application Refused: What Should You Do Next?
Options after a residential planning refusal, including amendments, resubmission and appeal.
9 min read · Reviewed 22 July 2026Planning Permission for a Replacement Dwelling
Key planning considerations when replacing an existing house with a new dwelling.
10 min read · Reviewed 22 July 2026How Long Does Planning Permission Take?
Typical planning application timescales and the factors that can delay residential decisions.
8 min read · Reviewed 22 July 2026Planning Permission vs Building Regulations
The difference between planning permission and Building Regulations approval for residential work.
8 min read · Reviewed 22 July 2026How Much Does a House Extension Cost in the UK?
Key factors affecting extension construction costs, professional fees, VAT and contingency allowances.
10 min read · Reviewed 22 July 2026Rear Extension Design Ideas for UK Homes
Practical rear extension ideas for light, layout, glazing, materials and garden connection.
9 min read · Reviewed 22 July 2026Wrap-Around Extension Planning Guide
Planning and design considerations for combined side and rear wrap-around extensions.
9 min read · Reviewed 22 July 2026Side Extension Planning Rules
Permitted development and planning considerations for side extensions to detached and semi-detached homes.
8 min read · Reviewed 22 July 2026Do I Need an Architect for Planning Permission?
When an architect adds value to a residential planning application and what information is normally required.
8 min read · Reviewed 22 July 2026Residential Planning Application Validation Checklist
Common drawings, forms, reports and information needed to validate a residential planning application.
9 min read · Reviewed 22 July 2026How to Discharge Planning Conditions
A practical guide to pre-commencement conditions, approval of details and condition discharge applications.
9 min read · Reviewed 22 July 2026Permitted Development Rights Explained
How permitted development rights work for extensions, lofts, outbuildings and residential alterations.
10 min read · Reviewed 22 July 2026Planning Permission in a Conservation Area
Design and planning considerations for residential work in conservation areas.
10 min read · Reviewed 22 July 2026Extending a Listed Building
Planning permission, listed building consent and design principles for extending a listed property.
11 min read · Reviewed 22 July 2026