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(Short answer: maybe. Longer answer: welcome to planning.) It’s one of the most common questions we get as architects, usually asked with a hopeful tone that suggests the answer ought  to be “no”. So let’s clear it up—with facts, not fairy tales. The reassuring bit: Permitted Development (sometimes) In England, many house extensions fall under Permitted Development (PD) . This means you may  not need planning permission, provided you stay within some very specific rules (and

If you’re planning an extension, renovation, or new home in Nottinghamshire , you may hear your architect mention the “RIBA Stages” . This often causes homeowners to nod politely while wondering if they’ve accidentally signed up for an A-level in architecture. Good news: it’s not complicated, and no exam is involved. The RIBA Stages are simply a step-by-step guide  that explains how your project goes from “we could knock that wall through…”  to “why didn’t we do this years ag

A Nottingham Homeowner’s Guide If you’re planning a house extension, renovation, or new home in Nottingham  or the wider East Midlands , one of the most common questions is: “Do I need an architect, a designer, or a technician?” They all produce drawings. They may all talk about planning permission and Building Regulations. But they are not the same —and choosing the right professional can make a significant difference to cost, programme, and outcome. This guide explains the

As we step into 2026, many people start thinking about home improvements, extensions, or finally doing something  with that idea they’ve been sitting on for years. Which often leads to the question: “What does an architect actually do?” And no — it’s not just drawing pretty pictures (although there are  drawings). An architect’s role is part designer, part problem-solver, part translator (turning your ideas into something planners, builders, and budgets can understand), and o