I’m dreaming of building a new home from scratch; where do I begin? The very first pillar is your budget. Because your finances dictate everything from the plot of land you can acquire to the level of finish in the kitchen, getting your numbers firm is essential. Once that’s set, we move on to design. If you're feeling overwhelmed at the starting line, give us a call—we’re happy to talk through the initial steps with you.

Do I really need architectural drawings? In short: yes. These drawings are the "source of truth" for your structural engineer and for us as your builders. They allow us to create the technical blueprints required for a safe, legal build. While some homeowners experiment with design software themselves, we generally recommend professional plans to ensure every measurement is millimeter-perfect.

Do you handle the interior finishing, too? We certainly do. Our team covers almost the entire spectrum of internal works, including bespoke joinery, carpentry, plumbing, and luxury kitchen or bathroom installations.

Will my extension require planning permission? It’s a bit of a "how long is a piece of string" answer! Many single-storey additions or conservatories fall under Permitted Development, meaning no formal application is needed. However, regulations can be strict in Hertfordshire’s conservation areas. We’ll look at your specific site and advise you on exactly what’s required to stay compliant.

Is it possible to extend a Listed Building? Yes, but it requires a delicate touch. You’ll typically need both standard planning permission and Listed Building Consent. The key here is proving that the work preserves the character of the property. We have the expertise to help you navigate this more complex approval process.

Can I build a second storey on top of my garage? It is possible in some cases, provided the extension stays within 3 metres of the original footprint and doesn't exceed the height of the existing eaves. The bigger hurdle is often structural; many older garages weren't built to support that much weight, so we’d need to assess whether the foundations require significant reinforcement first.

What are the "must-haves" for a loft conversion? To make a loft liveable, there are three main technical hurdles: you need a minimum head height of 2.2m, a roof pitch of at least 30 degrees, and enough clearance (1.9m) for the new staircase to meet building regs. We’ll also need to factor in moving any existing water tanks or chimney stacks.

What are my choices when it comes to flooring? The sky is the limit. We are highly experienced in fitting everything from reclaimed timber and engineered wood to polished concrete and high-end tiling. Tell us the look you’re going for, and we’ll make it happen. (And as mentioned, if you want carpet, we can point you toward our trusted local specialist.)