Design Zone Blog

Uses for a brick

grahammadigan — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 11:32:06 +0000

I’ve started a discussion on The Design Zone in Facebook asking for ideas for what a brick can be used for- please go to that site for more details and to leave your suggestions. The most amusing may even win something brick-related!

The George Clarke effect

grahammadigan — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 21:33:08 +0000

An interesting phenomenon is spreading through the nation- ’The George Clarke effect’. This is where people have seen the Architect George Clarke on TV take complete control of building projects and produce fantastic results. Well people- this is exactly what all Architects can (and would like) to do! It is both galling and heartening to have clients saying- ‘oh, of only I could have George round to sort everything out!’ It is astonishing because for years I have been trying to persuade customers to give me complete control and let me get on with the job but they have refused to do so (and still do generally). What George demonstrates in his programme (The Home Show) is that a decent Architect, left to get on with the job can do amazing things. Whilst he is obviously a talented chap this is surely what all Architects are capable of doing, so clients of the world please listen-up: Have confidence in your designers- let them do a George- give them a clear brief, a decent budget and then let them get on with it.

Beware undischarged planning conditions

grahammadigan — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 13:12:56 +0000

Have you recently received a planning approval? If you have or are about to- check the conditions and do not just ignore them.

I have heard of a couple of recent cases where a Local Authority has taken action over works that have started on site prior to conditions being discharged. They have taken the view (which has been supported by case law) that if work starts before discharge of conditions this makes the development unlawful. As a result they have threatened enforcement action (to close down the site) and notified the client that they MUST make a completely new planning application if they wish to continue building.

So when you get your planning approvals through please check the small-print carefully and deal with the Conditions before starting work. If you don’t you could face delays and extra cost.

Graham

P.S For general information about planning rules and regulations go to the planning section of the designzone.

Hello world!

grahammadigan — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 21:43:00 +0000

Welcome to the new Design Zone Blog. This is a quick & easy way to keep both the public users of the website and our professional contributors & advertisers up to date with news and developments.

The DesignZone is a free website for anyone looking to improve their home and has a wealth of information covering:

loft conversions
extensions
home improvements

If you are a homeowner and don’t know where to begin with your project this is the perfect resource for you- the site will guide you through the whole process, give you full technical advice and help you find consultants and builders. Go to www.designzone.uk.com and start your home improvements now!

If you are a consultant or builder then the site could also be a useful resource for you as a means to advertise your services. We offer free listings in a single area with further areas at very reasonable rates- go the the advertise with us section for more details. You are also invited to join the DZ Group on Linkedin- go to the page at the top for more details about this.

Graham