If you're planning a home extension, renovation or new build, one of the most important questions in 2026 is: How much do construction costs really look like this year?

Before speaking to an architect, many homeowners make avoidable mistakes that cost time, money, and sometimes planning approval. At MO Architects, we regularly help homeowners across Nottinghamshire untangle early decisions that could have been handled more strategically. If you’re considering a project, here are the most common mistakes — and how to avoid them.

If you are searching for an architect in Nottinghamshire , experience matters. Planning policy knowledge matters. Technical precision matters. MO Architects , established in 2008, has delivered over 350 projects  across Nottinghamshire and the East Midlands. With nearly two decades of professional practice, the studio has built a reputation for planning-led design, context-sensitive architecture and technically robust delivery. This depth of experience is what positions MO Ar