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ExtensionsInspirationLoft conversionsNew buildsYour home

How to find a good builder for your extension or loft conversion

Finding a builder is pretty easy but finding the right builder for your project is another ball game entirely… Any type of build is a hefty investment and therefore finding a builder that will work to your standards, in a timely manner and build something that will stand the test of time is key. First, you should aim to look for a builder who is fully insured, has references and has experience in the type of build you are trying to achieve. When it comes to your home and your build, cheapest isn’t always best because a botch job today…
Gemma Leon
7th August 2022
ExtensionsInspirationLoft conversionsNew buildsSustainable & Renewable

How the new building regulations will affect your extension or loft conversion

From 15 June 2022, all new homes must produce 30% less carbon dioxide emissions. These Building Regulations also include new requirements to cut carbon emissions and energy emissions during home improvements. Why are they changing? The Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities say that the changes ‘mark an important step on our journey towards a cleaner, greener built environment and it supports us in our target to reduce the UK’s carbon emissions to net-zero by 2050’. Changes in Building Regulations • From 15th June 2022, newbuild homes are required to emit 31% less carbon by welcoming the installation of…
Gemma Leon
3rd August 2022
Loft conversionsYour home

Is a Loft Conversion Right for Me?

Loft conversions are a brilliant way of adding value and space to your home and can even help save on those dreaded energy bills, due to added insulation. In the UK, loft conversions tend to be a no brainer, but only if you can overcome any challenges. One such challenge is achieving adequate headroom:  Building regulations stipulate that loft rooms must have a minimum head height of 2.2 metres. Enlisting an Architectural Designer, such as Arkiplan isn’t a requirement under building regulations but they can help design beautiful spaces, whilst navigating the minefield of planning applications and building control rules.…
Gemma Leon
27th July 2022
ExtensionsInspirationLoft conversionsYour home

How to Create a Home Gym

If exercise is top on your list of priorities but you don’t want to fork out for a lifetime of gym memberships, then creating a space at home is the ideal solution. If you're going to work out at home, make sure you choose a room where there's plenty of light. A well-lit space makes it easier to see what you're doing, and it also helps you avoid injury. Flooring that is hard wearing, durable and non-slip such as vinyl or even rubber tiles is also essential. Outbuildings If you have a large garden or enough land to house a…
Gemma Leon
19th July 2022
Your home

The Arkiplan Roadmap

With the use of clever software, modern camera technology, video-conferencing and highly specialised designers we can produce architectural plans for extensions and get council permissions for domestic building projects much more quickly and efficiently.Below is a roadmap of the process of getting architectural plans from Arkiplan. Have a look and if you're still unsure, feel free to contact us for a quick chat.
Gemma Leon
15th July 2022
ExtensionsLoft conversionsNew buildsYour home

The Planning Process

The Application If your development proposal requires a planning application, it must be submitted to your Local Authority for them to consider your scheme.  The process can seem daunting to many of you, so we have simplified it here for you Architects submit the application file to your Council through the Planning Portal, a nationwide system that will ensure the required information is included. The standard requirements for all application types are: A completed Application Form Location and Block Plan – a scaled drawing showing the boundary of your property in context with your neighbours, and the development marked Full…
Gemma Leon
12th July 2022
InspirationNew buildsYour home

Simple Tricks to Reduce the Amount of Time It Takes to Clean Your House

Whether you are thinking of a remodel or planning a newbuild, decision making in relation to the layout and finishes will have an impact of how much time you have to invest in your cleaning routine. Cleaning is an important part of life for many people, but it can also take a lot of time. Here are some tips on how to cut down on the amount of time it requires. Start with the Kitchen If you start with the kitchen, you will save yourself a lot of time. You should do this first because it is often the largest…
Gemma Leon
7th July 2022
ExtensionsInspirationYour home

How to Maximise Space for Your Family

You may not have much room to spare in your home, but that doesn’t mean you can’t create a comfortable living environment for your family. Here are some ideas to help you maximise space in your home. Organise Storage One of the easiest ways to make more space in your home is by organising storage. If you have lots of items lying around, chances are you won’t use them as often as you should. Instead, store these items in a place where you will see them regularly. This means you will be less likely to forget about them and they…
Gemma Leon
4th July 2022
ExtensionsInspirationYour home

Transform Your Bedroom Into A Relaxing Space With These 5 Tips

Your bedroom should be a place where you feel comfortable and relaxed. It’s also an important part of your home that you spend a lot of time in each day. Here are five simple steps to create a calming environment for yourself and your family. Create an Atmosphere That Makes You Feel Comfortable. 1) Make sure your bedding is clean and fresh. This will help you sleep better at night. 2) Keep clutter out of sight. 3) Add plants to your room. 4) Turn off the lights when you go to sleep. 5) Get rid of any electronics before going…
Gemma Leon
29th June 2022
InspirationYour home

Kitchen Design Ideas To Make A Statement

Designing a new kitchen can be an exciting project, but it can also be overwhelming. This article offers helpful tips on how to plan and execute a successful remodel. Add colour with a feature wall If you’re looking for ways to add colour to your kitchen without spending a lot of money, consider creating a feature wall. Feature walls can be created using wallpaper or coats of paint to add in colour or patterns, that you can easily customise them to match your existing decor. Create an island If you’re looking to maximise your kitchen space, consider adding an island.…
Gemma Leon
22nd June 2022
ExtensionsInspirationLoft conversionsNew buildsSustainable & RenewableYour home

Architects Near Me?

Architects Near Me? An architect helps people create beautiful places for living, working, and playing. You should consider hiring an architect when you need to build something new, renovate an existing space, or remodel a room. If you're planning to sell your home in the future, optimising the space in your property will not only improve your home life – it will also lead to more interest in your property from potential future buyers. There are several reasons why hiring an architect might make sense for your building project. They usually work directly with clients, so they understand what you…
Gemma Leon
27th May 2022
Your home

Can I Create an Office at Home?

You might think that creating a home office would mean giving up on your living area. But there are many creative solutions that will allow you to keep your living space while still getting the benefits of a dedicated workspace. Here are some tips to create a workspace at home: Start Small If you're looking to create a home office, start small by using a corner of a spare bedroom or even a wardrobe. Once you've got the basics down, you can add more space as needed. It might seem daunting to think about adding shelves to every nook and…
Gemma Leon
24th May 2022
InspirationYour home

Bathroom Design Tips for Small Spaces

Small bathrooms can be challenging, but there are many things you can do to make the most of the limited space. Here are some ideas: Maximise Storage Space One of the biggest challenges of small spaces is storage. You need to find ways to store everything you use every day. If you have a lot of items, consider using baskets or shelves instead of drawers. One clever tip is to create spaces for toiletries inside of designated shower spaces – easy to reach and a no brainer when it comes to a clutter free bathroom. Create an Efficient Layout A…
Gemma Leon
20th May 2022
ExtensionsLoft conversionsNew buildsYour home

Home Improvement Checklist for Your Next Home Project

Home improvement projects are fun, but they can also be expensive and time consuming. Use this checklist to make sure that you're prepared for any potential problems before starting your next big project. Can You Afford the Project? Before you start any project, make sure you have enough money available to complete it. If you're not sure whether you'll be able to afford the project, talk with a lender or financial advisor first. The cost of building materials, building contractors, the cost of delays, potential storage options and even the cost of living elsewhere if needs be, all need to…
Gemma Leon
17th May 2022
ExtensionsLoft conversionsNew buildsYour home

Do I Need a Structural Engineer?

Structural Calculations for the Homeowner When considering a newbuild project or even simpler architectural plans, such as plans for a loft conversion or an extension, structural calculations must be part of the process. An architectural designer will create plans suitable for building control approval and in doing so, engage a structural engineer to decipher load bearing walls and/or how many structural beams would be needed to supoort the structure. Accurate structural calculations are crucial to an architectural project because no one wants to build something that later isn't considered structurally sound, or even collapses.  How are Structural Calculations Determined? Structural…
Gemma Leon
13th May 2022
Uncategorized

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Garage Conversion?

Garage conversion design Garages are great but sometimes they just aren’t needed due to off street parking or the preferred use of bicycles and public transport. Funnily enough, most people don’t actually use their garage space for their cars but rather to store up bits and bobs – i.e. junk. If you’re looking to add some extra space to your living quarters and perhaps a little value to your home, then read on. How much would a garage conversion cost me? Garage conversions are brilliant because they often create more space for a living room, kitchen extension, home office or…
Gemma Leon
10th May 2022
Loft conversions

How Much Space Do I Need for Loft Stairs?

Loft conversion stairs Sometimes, moving house or buying a bigger property simply isn’t an affordable option and so creating space in an existing property is key for those looking to expand. Loft conversions are one of the most common architectural projects that homeowners embark on to economise on space for extra storage, another bedroom or perhaps an office. One of the most common questions an architectural designer is asked when planning a loft conversion, is how and where to position the loft stairs. When creating loft conversion plans, the loft stairs are one of the key design elements to consider…
Gemma Leon
4th May 2022
Garden roomsInspirationSustainable & Renewable

Plans for a Garden Room?

Whether you need a work from home space away from all distractions, a games room or even extra storage, a garden room may be a wise idea!   Garden Room Designs When an extension isn’t an option and moving altogether is completely out of the question, a garden room can be an affordable and effective way of creating more space in a part of your property that is probably under utilised. The possibilities are endless when it comes to garden room plans and depending on budget and space for the project, one could create an office, a games room, a…
Gemma Leon
26th April 2022
InspirationNew buildsSustainable & RenewableYour home

Eco Friendly Plans in the UK

As the UK moves closer to becoming a Balkanized nation, it's more important to focus on eco-friendly project builds. These homes and buildings are more environmentally friendly and surprisingly, they can also be cost-effective. In this post, we'll look at some of the best eco-friendly build options available in the UK today. We'll have something for everyone, from timber frame homes to passive solar homes. Let's get started!   Green Building Plans and Eco-Design in the UK - A Brief History One of the biggest reasons to focus on eco-friendly architectural plans is to reduce our individual carbon footprint in…
Gemma Leon
19th April 2022
ExtensionsInspirationYour home

Do You Need Planning Permission for an Extension?

There is no denying the fact that a beautifully planned extension can transform your entire home. An extension offers the opportunity to add space, value and contemporary design -  an investment that definitely pays off. Whatever your requirements may be, you should understand the specifications in regards to extension planning permission and extension building regulations, before starting your project.   Planning Permission or Permitted Development? Gorgeous open plan kitchen Planning permission gauges whether your extension plan aligns with local policies or whether it would cause unacceptable damage or impairment to the local area. Some extensions will not require planning permission,…
Gemma Leon
11th April 2022
InspirationLoft conversionsYour home

Do You Need Planning Permission for a Loft Conversion?

Loft conversions can be built in all types of shapes, sizes, and scales. Whether you will need planning permission drawings for loft conversions in England and Wales, depends on specific factors. Some of these include : · Your location i.e. areas of natural beauty · The type of property you wish to convert · The size of the proposed loft conversion plans plans · The type of loft conversion design design Understanding Loft Conversion Permitted Development Rights In most cases, loft conversions are regarded as permitted development projects. This means that you are not required to obtain formal loft conversion…
Gemma Leon
4th April 2022
InspirationYour home

Interesting Pinterest Design Ideas

Sometimes having the home of your dreams means tailoring it to your exact needs. Most people caught up in the busyness of life barely consider the possibility of updating the home they’re in. With the preconceived notion that renovations are costly and tedious, the idea of moving to an entirely new property that instantly meets your needs and wants can be tempting, but thanks to new technology, home renovations have evolved into a fairly streamlined system. In recent times, the home renovation process has been optimised, simplifying the experience with convenient procedures, like those offered by online architects. Simple processes…
Dave
23rd February 2022
Your home

Green architecture is more than a colour

With the global effort to reduce the effects of climate change across all industries, the architecture industry is no different. Enter green architecture. Green architecture is the process of minimizing the harmful impact that a structure has on its environment. Managed through a mindful selection of materials used throughout the build, the focus on energy-saving construction techniques and the preservation of the surrounding biodiversity, green architecture is paving the way to a healthier, more conscious design industry specialisation. What does green construction entail? Green construction refers to the measures taken to minimize the environmental footprint. Typically unique in its own…
Dave
15th February 2022
ExtensionsYour home

Home extension ideas to consider in 2022

In light of the isolation all of us have been forced into for the last two years, it’s no wonder home renovation builds are on the rise. With endless time to reassess the layout of our living space, and what it's lacking, it's predicted that in 2022 an insurgence of homeowners is taking the plunge to update their space. House extensions are a fairly straightforward and affordable way to improve your property. They improve your living space by allowing more light into previously dull areas, opening up the flow from one area into another, or even optimizing a room to…
Dave
10th February 2022
InspirationYour home

How Arkiplan has helped its clients

Whether you’re growing your family and looking to expand your home or simply looking to add value to your property, investing in a home extension project means investing in you. Optimising the space in your property will not only improve your home life - it will also lead to more interest in your property from potential future buyers. Home renovation builds tend to have a reputation for being a tedious experience. Between developing your Architectural planning drawings and getting building regulations approvals, unless you’re a professionally trained architect, the list of requirements needed before starting your home extension build can…
Dave
27th January 2022
Your home

Guarantee Fast Turnaround Times and Fixed Pricing

Traditionally, home renovation projects come with a variety of spiralling costs and extended deadlines. Hiring a traditional architect to fulfil your remodelling project, will typically come with sporadic meetings, expensive costs stacking up and out-dated processes. Between costs for back and forth correspondence, physically measuring and taking photos of your property, Architects will typically spend a significant amount of time producing and adjusting different designs before reaching a final architectural plan. Arkiplan founder, Dave Chamberlain, noticed a gap in the costly and time-consuming traditional architectural design process and developed a system providing planning drawings and building control drawings purely online…
Dave
4th January 2022
InspirationNew builds

What to expect when working with Arkiplan

It's no secret, just the thought of starting a home extension project might already be overwhelming to just consider for most homeowners. With a reputation for constant timeline extensions, spiralling costs and outdated processes when using a traditional architectural process it's no wonder online architectural drawings services are considered the future of design. At Arkiplan, our top-tech architectural design service uses modern camera technology, video-conferencing and highly specialised designers to produce architectural plans and get council permissions for domestic building projects way more efficiently than traditional design processes. We understand as a busy homeowner, your home extension plan needs to…
Dave
7th December 2021
Your home

The Fundamentals of Online Architectural Design

Initiating a renovation plan is exciting, but deciding which design professional to implement your home improvement project can be overwhelming. The current pandemic has forced the world to adapt to a somewhat isolating life, pushing a lot of businesses to pivot to an online business model. Cue the rise of online architectural design. The difference between Architects and Architectural Designers   To legally carry the title 'Architect', you must be registered with the Architects Registration Board, prior to would have had to complete 7 years of training, in studies as well as practice, covering health and safety of buildings, their…
Dave
24th November 2021
Garden rooms

The Benefits of Having a Garden Office

Creating an effective work-life balance lies in having a clear separation between each space. While remote working has become the norm, this self-disciplined way of life requires a dedicated workspace to keep the productivity levels high and the distractions at bay. If you're thinking, "there's no space in my home for an office", have you ever considered outside? Converting the unused space in your garden into a constructive home office could add value to your home and add structure to your life. Having a detached area to work from will not only allow you to switch off at the end…
Dave
25th October 2021
Your home

Relocate or Remodel?

Should you stay or should you go? If you’re a homeowner in need of a change of living space, you generally have two options, renovate, or move. Most people will agree that moving can be an incredibly stressful life event but does the costs and stress involved in the moving process outweigh the risk of renovating? The answer is completely up to you. You need to ask yourself if your current housing benefits exceed those offered with a move. Are you still happy with your location? Is there enough space for your growing needs? Would it be more cost-effective finding…
Dave
28th September 2021