Guides
Guides for planning your house and home
From planning permission and permitted development to furniture in real measurements. Read, then try it on your own drawing.
Planning & regulations
Local plans and permitted development explained
What you can build without planning permission: permitted development, the 50% curtilage rule, height limits and boundary distances in plain English.
Read the guide · 6 minPlanning application checklist – step by step
From pre-application advice to completion certificate: drawings, fees, the 8-week decision period, Building Regulations and time limits.
Read the guide · 6 minDrawing your own planning drawings – what is required
Location plan, block plan, floor plans, elevations and sections at 1:50 or 1:100 – what UK councils normally expect.
Read the guide · 6 minGarden rooms and annexes – size, height and use
Outbuilding rules under permitted development: 2.5 m height near boundaries, 4 m dual-pitched roof, and when an annexe needs planning permission.
Read the guide · 5 minLayout & furnishing
Furniture clearance guide – walkways and free space
How much space around the dining table, bed and sofa? Practical clearances for comfortable rooms.
Read the guide · 4 minPlanning a bathroom – sizes and accessibility
Turning circle, WC clearances, shower sizes and Part M guidance for bathrooms.
Read the guide · 4 min