A kitchen extension is a great way to add value to your home and create a more functional and enjoyable space for cooking, eating, and entertaining. However, it’s important to consider all of the factors involved before starting your project. Here are some of the most important things to think about when making a kitchen extension in London:

  • Your budget: Kitchen extensions can be expensive, so it’s important to set a budget before you start planning your project. Once you know how much you have to spend, you can start to narrow down your options.
  • The size of your extension: The size of your extension will depend on a number of factors, including the size of your current kitchen, the amount of space you have available, and your budget. It’s important to make sure that your extension is big enough to accommodate all of your needs.
  • The layout and style of your extension: The layout of your extension is another important consideration. You’ll need to decide where you want to place the appliances, cabinets, and countertops. It’s also important to think about how you want to use the space. Do you want a large island for entertaining? Or do you need more storage space? The style of your extension should complement the style of your home. If you have a traditional home, you’ll want to choose a traditional style for your extension. If you have a more modern home, you can choose a more modern style.
  • The materials you use: The materials you use for your extension will also affect the overall look and feel of your kitchen. You can choose from a variety of materials, including wood, stone, and tile.
  • The appliances you choose: The appliances you choose will also play a role in the overall look and feel of your kitchen. You’ll need to decide what type of stove, oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher you want. You’ll also need to decide what type of countertops you want.
  • The lighting you choose: The lighting you choose will also affect the overall look and feel of your kitchen. You’ll need to decide what type of light fixtures you want to install. You’ll also need to decide what type of window treatments you want.
  • The ventilation you choose: Ventilation is important in any kitchen, but it’s especially important in a kitchen extension. You’ll need to choose a ventilation system that will remove cooking fumes and smoke from your kitchen.
  • The insulation you choose: Insulation is important in any home, but it’s especially important in a kitchen extension. You’ll need to choose insulation that will keep your kitchen warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
  • The noise levels: If you live in a busy area, you’ll need to consider the noise levels when planning your kitchen extension. You may need to install soundproofing to reduce the noise from outside.
  • The planning permission: If you’re planning a major kitchen extension, you’ll need to apply for planning permission from your local council. You can find more information about planning permission on the government website.

Windows are an important part of any home, but they can also be a major source of energy loss. In the UK, windows are responsible for around 15% of all household energy use. That’s why it’s important to choose the right windows if you want to save energy and money on your heating bills.

There are a number of factors to consider when choosing energy-efficient windows. The most important factor is the type of glass used. Double-glazed windows are more energy-efficient than single-glazed windows, and triple-glazed windows are even more efficient. Low-emissivity (low-E) glass is also a good option, as it reflects heat back into the home.

The frame material is also important. UPVC frames are more energy-efficient than wood or aluminium frames. They are also more durable and require less maintenance.

The size and shape of the windows can also affect their energy efficiency. Large windows let in more heat, so they are more likely to cause energy loss in the winter. However, they also let in more natural light, which can reduce your reliance on artificial lighting.

When choosing windows, it’s important to consider the climate you live in. If you live in a cold climate, you’ll need windows that are designed to keep heat in. If you live in a warm climate, you’ll need windows that are designed to keep heat out.

It’s also important to consider the style of your home when choosing windows. If you have a traditional home, you’ll want to choose windows that match the style of your home. If you have a modern home, you’ll have more options when it comes to choosing windows.

Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you can start shopping for energy-efficient windows. Be sure to compare prices from different retailers and get quotes from multiple installers. With a little planning, you can choose the right windows to save energy and money on your heating bills.

Energy-efficient windows can help you save money on your heating and cooling bills. Here are some tips on how to get the most out of your energy-efficient windows:

  • Keep your windows clean. Dirty windows can reduce the amount of light that enters your home, which can lead to higher energy bills.
  • Use window treatments to control the amount of light that enters your home. Window treatments can help you keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
  • Seal any air leaks around your windows. Air leaks can allow cold air in and warm air out, which can increase your energy bills.
  • Adjust your thermostat when you open your windows. If you open your windows to let in fresh air, be sure to adjust your thermostat so that you’re not wasting energy.
  • Consider installing solar shades. Solar shades can help to keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, which can lead to lower energy bills.

Energy-efficient windows can also help you reduce your environmental impact. By reducing your energy use, you can help to lower greenhouse gas emissions and protect the environment.

Energy-efficient windows are a great way to save money on your energy bills and reduce your environmental impact. When choosing windows, be sure to consider the factors that are most important to you, such as the type of glass, the frame material, the size and shape of the windows, and the style of your home. With a little planning, you can choose the right windows to save energy and money for years to come.

Deciding whether to move or renovate your home is a big decision. There are many factors to consider, including your budget, your lifestyle, and your personal preferences. Here are a few things to think about to help you make the best decision for you:

  • Your budget: Moving and renovating both come with a significant cost. If you’re on a tight budget, renovating may be the better option, as it can be less expensive than buying a new home. However, if you have the financial resources, moving may be a better option if you’re not happy with your current home or if you’re looking for a change of scenery.
  • Your lifestyle: If you have a young family, you may want to consider moving to a larger home with more space. If you’re empty nesters, you may want to downsize to a smaller home that’s easier to maintain. Or, if you’re looking for a change of pace, you may want to move to a different neighborhood or even a different city.
  • Your personal preferences: Ultimately, the decision of whether to move or renovate is a personal one. Think about what’s important to you in a home and what you’re looking for in your next living situation. If you can’t picture yourself living in your current home for the long term, then it may be time to move on. But if you love your home and your neighborhood, then renovating may be the best way to get the space and features you want.

Here are a few other things to consider when making your decision:

  • The condition of your home: If your home is in need of major repairs, it may be more cost-effective to move than to renovate. However, if your home is in good condition and only needs minor updates, renovating may be a better option.
  • The value of your home: The value of your home will play a role in your decision. If your home is worth more than you owe on your mortgage, you may be able to sell it for a profit and use that money to buy a new home or renovate your current home. However, if your home is worth less than you owe on your mortgage, you may have to come up with the difference in cash if you want to move.
  • The time commitment: Moving and renovating both take time. If you’re not sure how much time you’re willing to commit to a project, you may want to consider the other option. Moving is typically a quicker process than renovating, but it can still be a stressful and time-consuming experience. Renovating can take months or even years, depending on the scope of the project.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to move or renovate is a personal one. There is no right or wrong answer, and the best decision for you will depend on your individual circumstances. Weigh the pros and cons of each option carefully and make the decision that’s best for you and your family.

Home renovations can be a great way to add value to your property, but not all renovations are created equal. Some renovations will add more value to your home than others. If you’re thinking about renovating your home, it’s important to choose projects that will give you the best return on your investment. Here are a few renovation projects that are likely to add value to your home in the UK:

  • Kitchen and bathroom renovations: These two rooms are often the most expensive to renovate, but they are also the rooms that buyers are most likely to upgrade. A well-designed kitchen or bathroom can add a significant amount of value to your home.
  • Loft conversions: Loft conversions can add extra living space to your home, which can be a major selling point for potential buyers. Loft conversions can also be a relatively affordable way to add value to your home.
  • Garden renovations: A well-maintained garden can make your home more attractive to potential buyers. If your garden is in need of some TLC, consider investing in some landscaping or patio work.
  • Energy-efficient upgrades: Energy-efficient upgrades, such as installing insulation, double glazing, and a new boiler, can save you money on your energy bills and make your home more attractive to buyers.
  • Outdoor improvements: If you have a driveway, patio, or other outdoor space, consider making some improvements to it. This could include adding new paving, landscaping, or installing a security system.

Of course, the best way to add value to your home is to renovate it in a way that makes it more appealing to you. If you love your home and you’re planning to stay there for the long term, then renovate it in a way that reflects your personal style and needs. Here are a few things to keep in mind when renovating your home:

  • Choose the right projects: Not all renovations are created equal. Some renovations will add more value to your home than others. Choose projects that will appeal to the widest range of buyers and that will make your home more functional and enjoyable to live in.
  • Get professional help: If you’re not experienced in home renovations, it’s a good idea to get professional help. A qualified contractor can help you choose the right materials and finishes, and they can ensure that your renovation is completed to a high standard.
  • Stick to your budget: Renovating your home can be expensive, so it’s important to stick to your budget. Create a detailed budget before you start your renovation, and be sure to factor in the cost of materials, labor, and unexpected expenses.
  • Be patient: Renovating your home takes time. Be patient and don’t expect the project to be completed overnight. Allow plenty of time for planning, construction, and cleanup.

Renovating your home can be a great way to add value to your property and make it more enjoyable to live in. By choosing the right projects and getting professional help, you can ensure that your renovation is a success.

The best type of flooring for a kitchen depends on a number of factors, including your budget, your personal style, and the amount of traffic your kitchen gets. Here are a few things to consider when choosing flooring for your kitchen:

  • Durability: Kitchens are high-traffic areas, so you’ll need a flooring that can withstand spills, stains, and foot traffic. Porcelain tile, laminate flooring, and luxury vinyl tile (LVT) are all good choices for durability.
  • Style: Kitchen flooring should complement the overall style of your kitchen. If you have a traditional kitchen, you might want to choose a classic flooring material like wood or tile. If you have a more modern kitchen, you might want to choose a sleeker material like glass or stone.
  • Budget: Kitchen flooring can range in price from very affordable to very expensive. It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping so you don’t overspend.

Here are a few of the most popular types of flooring for kitchens in the UK:

  • Porcelain tile: Porcelain tile is a durable and stylish option for kitchen flooring. It’s available in a wide range of colors, styles, and sizes, so you can find the perfect tile to match your kitchen décor. Porcelain tile is also easy to clean and maintain, making it a good choice for busy kitchens.
  • Laminate flooring: Laminate flooring is a popular choice for kitchens because it’s durable, affordable, and easy to install. It’s also available in a variety of colors, styles, and finishes, so you can find the perfect laminate flooring to match your kitchen décor.
  • Luxury vinyl tile (LVT): LVT is a newer type of flooring that’s quickly becoming popular for kitchens. It’s made from a durable vinyl material that’s resistant to water, stains, and scratches. LVT is also easy to clean and maintain, making it a good choice for busy kitchens.
  • Wood flooring: Wood flooring is a classic choice for kitchens. It’s warm and inviting, and it can add a touch of luxury to any kitchen. However, wood flooring is not as durable as some other types of flooring, so it’s important to choose a wood that is resistant to water and stains.
  • Stone flooring: Stone flooring is a beautiful and durable option for kitchens. It’s available in a variety of colors, styles, and finishes, so you can find the perfect stone to match your kitchen décor. Stone flooring is also easy to clean and maintain, making it a good choice for busy kitchens.

Once you’ve considered all of the factors above, you can start shopping for flooring for your kitchen. Be sure to visit a showroom or two to see the different types of flooring in person and get expert advice from a flooring professional.

Choosing the right electrical fixtures for your renovation project can be a daunting task. There are so many factors to consider, such as style, function, and budget. But don’t worry, we’re here to help. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the process of choosing the right electrical fixtures for your renovation project.

1. Consider your style

The first step in choosing the right electrical fixtures is to consider your style. What kind of look are you going for? Do you want a traditional, modern, or contemporary look? Once you know your style, you can start narrowing down your options.

2. Think about function

In addition to style, you also need to consider the function of the electrical fixtures in your home. For example, if you have a family room, you’ll need to choose fixtures that are bright enough to light up the space. But if you have a bedroom, you may want to choose dimmer fixtures that create a more intimate atmosphere.

3. Set a budget

Electrical fixtures can range in price from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars. It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you don’t overspend.

4. Do your research

Once you know your style, function, and budget, it’s time to start doing your research. Read reviews, compare prices, and visit different stores to see the fixtures in person.

5. Make a decision

Once you’ve done your research, it’s time to make a decision. Choose the fixtures that best fit your needs and style. And don’t forget to have fun with it! Choosing the right electrical fixtures can be a great way to add personality to your home.

Here are a few additional tips for choosing the right electrical fixtures for your renovation project:

  • Choose fixtures that are energy-efficient. This will save you money on your energy bills in the long run.
  • Choose fixtures that are easy to clean. This will make your life easier and help your fixtures last longer.
  • Choose fixtures that are made from durable materials. This will ensure that your fixtures last for many years to come.

With a little planning and effort, you can choose the right electrical fixtures for your renovation project and create a space that you love.

Home renovation projects can be a great way to add value to your property, but they can also be a major undertaking. That’s why it’s important to choose the right builder for the job. Here are a few tips on how to choose the right builder in the UK for your home renovation project:

Get recommendations from friends, family, and neighbours. This is a great way to get started in your search for a builder. Ask around to see if anyone has recently had a home renovation project done and was happy with the results. If they were, be sure to get the builder’s contact information.

Do your research online. Once you have a few names of potential builders, take some time to research them online. Read reviews, look at photos of their past work, and check out their websites. This will give you a good idea of what to expect from each builder.

Interview multiple builders. Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential builders, it’s time to interview them. This will give you a chance to ask questions and get to know them better. Be sure to ask about their experience, their qualifications, and their availability.

Get multiple bids. It’s always a good idea to get multiple bids before making a decision. This will help you compare prices and find the best deal. Be sure to get detailed quotes from each builder so you can compare apples to apples.

Check references. Once you’ve chosen a builder, be sure to check their references. Talk to past clients to get their feedback on the builder’s work. This will help you make sure you’re hiring a reputable builder who will do a good job on your project.

Following these tips will help you choose the right builder for your home renovation project. By taking the time to do your research and interview multiple builders, you can be sure to find a builder who will do a great job and meet your needs.

Here are a few additional things to keep in mind when choosing a builder:

  • Make sure the builder is licensed and insured. This will protect you in case something goes wrong during the project.
  • Get everything in writing. This includes the scope of work, the timeline, the budget, and the payment schedule.
  • Be clear about your expectations. Make sure the builder understands what you want done and how you want it done.
  • Be prepared to pay a deposit. This is usually 10-20% of the total project cost. Though not every builder will require one.
  • Be patient. Home renovation projects can take time, so be prepared for some delays.
  • Be prepared to make changes. Things don’t always go according to plan, so be prepared to make changes to your plans if necessary.

Choosing the right builder for your home renovation project is an important decision. By following these tips, you can be sure to find a builder who will do a great job and meet your needs.

The kitchen counter is one of the most important surfaces in your home. It’s where you prepare meals, do dishes, and entertain guests. That’s why it’s important to choose the right kitchen counter for your needs.

There are many different types of kitchen counters available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a kitchen counter:

  • Durability: Your kitchen counter will be exposed to a lot of wear and tear, so it’s important to choose a material that is durable. Granite, quartz, and laminate are all good choices for durable kitchen counters.
  • Stain resistance: If you have young children or pets, you’ll want to choose a kitchen counter that is stain-resistant. Granite, quartz, and stainless steel are all good choices for stain-resistant kitchen counters.
  • Maintenance: Some kitchen counters require more maintenance than others. For example, natural stone countertops, such as granite, need to be sealed regularly to protect them from stains and scratches. Laminate countertops are easier to maintain, but they may not be as durable as other materials.
  • Style: Your kitchen counter should complement the overall style of your kitchen. If you have a traditional kitchen, you might want to choose a classic countertop material, such as granite or marble. If you have a more modern kitchen, you might want to choose a more contemporary countertop material, such as stainless steel or quartz.

Once you’ve considered these factors, you can start shopping for kitchen counters. Be sure to compare prices from different retailers and get quotes from multiple installers. With a little planning, you can choose the perfect kitchen counter for your home.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that is highly durable and stain-resistant. It is also available in a variety of colors and patterns, making it a popular choice for kitchen counters. However, granite can be expensive, and it requires regular sealing to protect it from stains and scratches.

Quartz

Quartz is 100 percent a natural material made up of a white or colourless mineral. But, unlike natural stone, such as marble, granite, and soapstone, quartz is categorized as a man-made product. 

While countertops made of quartz consist of natural quartz stone, they also include added resins, colors and other materials to help enhance its strength and style. 

They are durable, stain-resistant, and easy to clean. Quartz is also available in a variety of colours and patterns, making it a good alternative to granite. However, quartz can be more expensive than laminate or butcher block countertops.

Laminate

Laminate is a man-made material that is made from a layer of paper that is bonded to a layer of resin. It is durable, stain-resistant, and easy to clean. Laminate is also relatively inexpensive, making it a popular choice for budget-minded homeowners. However, laminate is not as durable as granite or quartz, and it may not be as attractive to some homeowners.

Butcher Block

Butcher block is a type of countertop that is made from wood. It is durable, easy to clean, and attractive. However, butcher block can be susceptible to stains and scratches, and it requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is a durable, easy-to-clean material that is often used in commercial kitchens. It is also a popular choice for kitchen counters in modern homes. However, stainless steel can be cold to the touch, and it can be difficult to match with other kitchen cabinets and appliances.

The best kitchen counter for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the factors that are most important to you, such as durability, stain resistance, style, and budget, to choose the right kitchen counter for your home.

Basements are often overlooked spaces in the home. They can be damp, dark, and dingy, and many people simply use them for storage. However, with a little creativity, a basement can be transformed into a beautiful and functional space.

Here are a few ideas for home basement renovation in the UK:

  • Games room: A basement is the perfect place for a games room. You can install a pool table, foosball table, or arcade games. If you have children, you can create a playroom with toys, games, and a TV.
  • Home cinema: If you love movies, a home cinema is the perfect way to enjoy your favorite films. Install a large screen TV, comfortable seating, and surround sound. You can even add a popcorn machine to make your movie nights extra special.
  • Bar: If you enjoy entertaining, a basement bar is the perfect place to relax with friends and family. Install a wet bar, pool table, and comfortable seating. You can even add a jukebox or karaoke machine to make your parties even more fun.
  • Guest room: If you have frequent guests, a basement guest room is a great way to accommodate them. Install a comfortable bed, dresser, and nightstand. You can even add a TV and small kitchenette to make your guests feel at home.
  • Gym: If you’re looking to get in shape, a basement gym is the perfect place to work out. Install a treadmill, weights, and other exercise equipment. You can even add a TV to watch your favorite shows while you work out.
  • Office: If you work from home, a basement office is the perfect place to set up your desk. Install a comfortable chair, desk, and filing cabinet. You can even add a whiteboard or projector to make your office more productive.
  • Craft room: If you enjoy crafting, a basement craft room is the perfect place to create your masterpieces. Install a work table, storage cabinets, and a sewing machine. You can even add a sink and drying rack to make your craft room more functional.
  • Wine cellar: If you enjoy wine, a basement wine cellar is the perfect place to store your collection. Install wine racks, a temperature-controlled environment, and a tasting table. You can even add a wine fridge to keep your favorite wines chilled.

These are just a few ideas for home basement renovation in the UK. With a little creativity, you can transform your basement into a beautiful and functional space that you’ll love to use.

Here are some additional tips for renovating your basement:

  • Plan ahead: Before you start any renovations, it’s important to have a plan. This will help you stay on track and avoid making costly mistakes.
  • Get the right permits: If you’re planning any major renovations, you’ll need to get the proper permits from your local council.
  • Hire a professional: If you’re not experienced in renovations, it’s a good idea to hire a professional to help you. They can help you with the planning, execution, and finishing touches.
  • Be patient: Renovations can be time-consuming and expensive. Be patient and don’t expect everything to be perfect overnight.

With a little planning and effort, you can transform your basement into a beautiful and functional space that you’ll love to use.

If you are planning a basement renovation, kitchen extension or any other renovation project give us a call on 020 71186155 or visit our office in Hammersmith. Dominant Construction specialises in home renovation projects in Fulham, Hammersmith and Chelsea but we are always happy to talk to you about your ideas regardless of where in London your project is.

Basement conversions are an great solution to create more space in your home. Especially if you live in an urban area where land can be expensive and you don’t particularly want to sacrifice part of your garden.

With the slowdown in the housing market, more of us are looking at ways to create extra space in our homes without having to move. If you are under the impression that all basement conversions require a mammoth project that will see you digging under your whole garden, think again. Many of the homes you find in the UK already have a basement and many of them are ideal for a basement extension.

Some key things to think about when thinking of extending into your basement are lighting and ventilation – both of which can be tricky and pricey when going underground. Clever design and careful planning will be crucial to make sure that these two elements are properly integrated into your project without breaking the bank.

The most affordable option to extend your home will be upwards and outwards. However, a basement extension is a perfect solution if you do not want to sacrifice a portion of your garden or if you have already extended into the loft and find that you still need additional space. Besides providing you with additional space, the right type of basement extension will also add considerable value to your home.

Before you start decide why you need to extend into your basement. What are you going to use this space for? Will it be a bedroom? An office? How would you like it to look? Having a clear brief will help you make clever and practical decision when budgeting and designing.

One of the biggest concerns when converting a basement is natural light. If the basement opens up into a garden for example, this will be less of a concern, but otherwise you will have to think how to bring some light in to make it a pleasing space. You may consider a well-positioned light well for example or a walk on window above.

You will also want to consider floor to ceiling height. You will want to have a minimum height of 2.7m but if you can, a bit more of headroom will always make an underground space more inviting.

We highly recommend you engage experts for this type of project if you want to achieve a great result. Hiring the right professionals could be the difference between an efficient basement and a spectacular one. A professional designer will be able to advise on lighting issues and how to connect the new space to the rest of your house in the best way. They will also be able to make it aesthetically pleasing.

Once the design is created by an architect or designer, you will need a  structural engineer to look over your plans to make sure that they are feasible and that your structure is safe.

There are a number of design and construction essentials to think about before you submit your planning application. For example, bear in mind that you will need to consider a fire escape strategy which will need to be factored into the plans. Soil conditions and the water table also need to be properly investigated prior to any detailed design taking place. A clear waterproofing strategy has also to be implemented.

Your new basement may be below the level of the water table, and if this is the case, there are a number of methods of waterproofing available including external tanking to inner drained cavity lining. Check with your architect or contractor to see which is the most appropriate for you.

You will also need to install central heating or underfloor heating.

Think about informing your neighbours early in the game. Basement conversions can cause objections easily as there are many horror stories out there of things going wrong. The earlier you approach the subject the more time you have to prepare for any unforeseen objections.

While at some point in history you were able to execute basement conversions under Permitted Development, that is no longer the case. In many London boroughs, any subterranean development will require automatically formal consent. You can find out what you will need to do a basement conversion here.

When referring to the actual build, it is important you engage a contractor that specialises in basement conversions or one that has relevant experience, such as Dominant Construction.

In regards to budget, like with any construction project, we recommend you allocate an additional 10 per cent as a contingency fund.

A basement conversion is a big project so be prepared for it to span between 10 to 15 weeks. How long a conversion will take will depend on the size of the project. But an average job of 70-80 sq m will take around 12 weeks to excavate and 12 weeks to fit out. If you are thinking of creating a basement conversion for your home, a loft extension or any type of renovation project we at Dominant Construction would love to hear about it. Give us a call on 020 71186155 or make an appointment to come visit our office in Hammersmith. We are always happy to chat about construction.

Buying a home is certainly one of the most significant milestones in our lives. A greatly satisfying aspect of owning your own home is the ability to make it your own. From renovating a master bathroom to adding a new room in your loft-space, a clever renovation can have a massive impact on how we enjoy our home and our lifestyle. It can as well have a big impact on our property’s resale value. As with most things, home renovations tend to follow trends which are influenced by many factors – including social, economic and political. A clear example was during the height of the recent pandemic, when a large part of the population was forced to work from home and the  desire to create a home-working space was top priority in most people’s wish list. Renovations that focused on increasing comfort and functionality saw a huge increase in demand (and will continue for the foreseeable future). So what will be the main trends that will dominate home renovations for the remaining of 2023?

1. Home Offices

Not surprisingly, home offices top the list. With many of us still working from home (at least some of the time), a home office has become a must-have. This can take the form of a dedicated structure to a simple renovation of an already existing home office to make it more comfortable. If your home has a garage, this may be the perfect space to create a home office. A garage conversion allows you to separate work and home life without the hassle of a commute.

2. Outdoor Living

This trend is also directly related with many professionals spending more time at home. The more time we spend at home, the more we will want to maximise living spaces including the outdoors. With the warmer months approaching, we will see renovations focusing on outdoor living spaces. This could mean simple changes such as landscaping or refreshing a decking area to something more complex like installing an outdoor kitchen for example.

3. Energy Efficiency

With the price of energy skyrocketing, energy efficiency will take priority in many renovation projects. Add to the increased cost of energy the huge push to make everyone aware of the importance of reducing our carbon footprint and efficient use of resources, and you will have many homeowners focusing on installing solar panels, insulating their homes properly and changing their appliances to energy-efficient models.

4. Bathroom and Kitchen Upgrades

Kitchens and bathrooms are high-use areas of the home and with an increasing focus on practical and functional renovations expected in 2023, these rooms will be a priority for many homeowners. Experts expect many homeowners to upgrade their cabinetry with a trend towards hidden built-ins. There will also be a focus on changing countertops and cosmetic changes that can be achieved quickly, with little disruption and with a smaller investment.

5. Multi-dwelling Residences

With the price in properties continually increasing, there will be a trend towards creating multi-generational homes or additional living spaces within an existing property. You may see people pooling their resources to afford a larger property that can be divided into individual living spaces. Adapting homes to multi-generational living will be a big renovation trend in 2023. As the economy shifts, more and more families will opt to live under one roof as children come back or aging parents move in. To accommodate this change, many homeowners will reconfiguring their rooms and floor plans. Some will add separate entrances and kitchens, while others will create self-contained apartment units.

It is important to emphasise that regardless of the trends, renovation projects should prioritise what works for you and your family – so never feel the need to jump on the bandwagon just to be trendy.

If you are planning a home renovation in Fulham, Chelsea, Hammersmith or anywhere in London, we are always keen to have a chat. Give us a call on 020 71186155 or make an appointment to visit our office in Hammersmith to discuss with us how we can help you with your home renovation project.

A crucial element of your renovation projects is your colour scheme. When renovating your home you will have to make many decisions amongst which will be what colour should my walls be. On the face of it, it should be an easy decision. You know what colours you like right? But when you start looking through catalogues you may become overwhelmed with the array of choices. Here are four points to consider when choosing your colour palette to get you started.

1. How to Choose Colours You Like

First off, think of things you love; like your favourite piece of clothing, environments where you feel the most comfortable in and things you enjoy doing the most. What colours do you associate with these? These colours will guide you in adding personality to your new space and will help you create the right mood for you.

If you are unsure that the colours you are considering are the right ones, some paint providers have some great tools, such as paint visualisers, that will help you see how your chosen colour palette will look in your home. Even if you are not using their brand, take advantage of these tools you can find online, they will give you a good idea of what your home would look like when decorated with a specific colour palette.

2. Use Your Memories

Was your favourite trip ever the one you took to Greece? Does the idea of living next to the sea sound idyllic? Why not consider colours that mimic sand like white, neutrals and blues. If your idea of a perfect day is one where you get to walk in the forest, choose greens and deep earthy neutrals which you can combine with textured materials for soft furnishings and accessories literally extracted from nature. You can add accents of orange and yellow to add a touch of sunshine. The key is to bring your happy into real life.

3. It Is All About The Accents.

You do not have to be over the top with colour to inject personality into your home. You may however consider a bold accent colour instead. Consider using neutral colours as your driving shades and then adding an accent colour. Neutral colours will take on some of the qualities of colours they are paired with, for example if you chose a light grey as a base and pair it with whites and blues, the effect will be calm and serene. If you take the same grey and pair it with yellow white and orange, you will have a room that feels energetic and active.

If for whatever reason you do not have the opportunity to create an accent wall, you can inject accent colours to spaces decorated in neutral shades by adding soft furnishings, furniture, drapes and decorations in the accent colours of your choice.

4. Think Tonal

Using two or more tone of the same colour will create a calm yet interesting space. Think using different shades of the same blue in different walls. If you feel bold, why not create dual tone walls. This is a great way to create an interesting feature without having to spend a fortune on artwork. You could even add an accent stripe between both colours or around walls and doors to make the colours pop even more.

If you want to have a much better idea of what the colours in your palette will look like in your home, you can always buy tester pots at your chosen provider’s outlet. Use some A4 lining paper and place them on the walls where you are planning to apply them. This will give you a good idea how the lighting in the room will affect the colour and the exact end product.

If you are planning a renovation project in Hammersmith, Fulham, Parsons Green or Chelsea, why not drop by to our office in Hammersmith and have a chat with us on how we can help you bring your vision to life. If your project is further away, just give us a call. We are always happy to chat about construction and renovation projects.