Ideas and guidance from architectural practice.
Clear thinking on planning, residential design and the decisions that shape better projects across Birmingham and the West Midlands.
Planning permission secured for an accessible bungalow in Solihull
From garage site to accessible home: planning approval for a wheelchair-accessible bungalow marks phase two of our client’s wider property project in Solihull.
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Building RegulationsFuture Homes Standard 2027: What New-Build Homeowners and Developers Need to Design for Now
England’s confirmed 2027 timetable, transitional rules and the heating, solar, ventilation and overheating decisions to resolve while your new home is being designed.
7 Sept 2026
Planning updateNew NPPF 2026: What the “Default Yes” Planning Rules Mean for Small Residential Sites
England’s planning rules changed on 17 August 2026. Find out what stronger support for development within settlements and around well-connected stations could mean for small residential sites.
25 Aug 2026
Planning guidanceLoft Conversion Planning Rules in Birmingham: 2026 Guide
A practical guide to planning permission, permitted development, dormers, hip-to-gable extensions and Lawful Development Certificates for Birmingham loft conversions.
2 Aug 2026
Planning guidanceHouse Extension Planning Permission in Birmingham: 2026 Guide
A practical guide to planning permission, permitted development, prior approval and Lawful Development Certificates for Birmingham extensions.
2 Aug 2026
AdviceHow to Choose the Best Architect in Birmingham
A practical guide to comparing Birmingham architects, checking credentials, reviewing relevant projects and appointing the right practice.
2 Aug 2026
PlanningSolar Panel Planning Rules August 2026
Solar panel permitted development rules change in England on 27 August 2026. Find out what the new rules mean for homeowners, wall-mounted solar, plug-in systems and planning permission.
12 Aug 2026
Property DevelopmentFrom Garden Land to Development Opportunity: Assessing the Potential for a Small Residential Scheme
An illustrative feasibility study showing how access, planning, neighbours, ecology, drainage and viability shape the realistic potential of garden land.
10 Aug 2026
Property DevelopmentBiodiversity Net Gain Rules Changed in August 2026 – What Small Developers Need to Know
Biodiversity Net Gain rules changed on 6 August 2026. Here is what the new 0.2-hectare exemption means for small developments, self-build homes and planning applications.
10 Aug 2026
Property DevelopmentBOPP Discovery Day: Property Networking and Expert Insight in Knowle
We take a closer look at BOPP, a monthly property networking community bringing together investors, business owners and experienced industry professionals, ahead of its Discovery Day in Knowle on 5 August.
23 Jul 2026
Building RegulationsWhy a Planning Approval Does Not Mean Your Extension Is Ready to Build
Summary Receiving planning is an important milestone, but it does not mean an extension is ready for construction. This guide explains the additional drawings, technical information needed before building work begins.
17 Jul 2026
New HomesFuture Homes Standard 2026: A Homeowner’s Guide
The Government has now published the Future Homes and Buildings Standards, introducing updated requirements for energy efficiency, heating systems, ventilation and renewable electricity generation.
16 Jul 2026
PlanningPlanning Permission Approved for a Solihull Home Extension
Planning permission has been granted for a residential extension in Solihull designed to improve natural light, internal space and the home’s relationship with its garden.
8 Jul 2026