Kieran

  The Complete Guide to Insulating Lean-To Roofs & Masonry Walls to UK Building Regulations (2025 Edition) By Melrose Designs – Architectural Designers Specialising in Home Extensions Across Wigan & the North West To meet the latest UK Building Regulations (2025), lean-to roofs and masonry walls typically need to achieve U-values between 0.13–0.18 W/m²K, depending […]

Introduction: Understanding Extension Costs in the North West Cost of House Extensions One of the most common questions I get from homeowners in Wigan, St Helens, and across the North West is: “How much does a house extension actually cost?” It’s an important question — but the truth is, no two projects are ever the

        Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Starting a Design Project   Introduction Starting a design project — whether it’s a house extension in Wigan, a loft conversion, or a full home renovation — can be exciting. But many homeowners make costly mistakes in the early stages that delay approvals, inflate budgets,

Melrose Designs recently completed an architectural rescue in Pemberton, helping a client who had been abandoned mid-project by their previous architect. Imagine this: you’ve invested thousands into your dream home extension, trusting an architect to guide you through the process. You’re ready to move forward, but when you ask for updated drawings to resubmit to

Designing a Unique Container House at Giants Hall Farm – A Retirement Home Project by Melrose Designs   Container House Design Wigan When most people picture a retirement home, they imagine a cosy bungalow or a traditional cottage. But at Melrose Designs, we love working with clients who think differently and want something truly unique.

From Concept to Completion: How Melrose Designs Brings Your Vision to Life Introduction At Melrose Designs, we believe that every great space begins with a great idea. Whether you’re dreaming of a modern extension, a full renovation, or a bespoke build, our team is here to guide you from concept to completion. In this blog,

Transforming Homes around Wigan: A Smart House Extension and Garage Conversion by Melrose Designs Stylish House Extension – Bringing Light, Space, and Functionality. At Melrose Designs, we love helping homeowners make the most of their space – and our latest project in Wigan is a perfect example of how thoughtful design can truly transform a

A Stunning Double Storey Extension by Melrose Designs   A Look at Our Latest Double Storey Extension in St Helens At Melrose Designs, we believe that great design is about more than just bricks and mortar — it’s about creating spaces that feel like home. Our latest project at Higher Lane, St Helens, is a perfect

Wrap Around Extension in Chorley – A Light-Filled Transformation Looking to transform your home with a stunning wrap around extension? That’s exactly what we helped deliver for our clients at their beautiful property in Chorley.                                        

At Melrose Designs, we’re proud to support homeowners through every stage of their extension project—from initial concept to Building Regulations approval. One of our latest projects, located on Pincock Street in Chorley, showcases a beautifully detailed rear extension that combines smart design with full regulatory compliance. Here’s a closer look at what went into the

Single-storey rear extension Liverpool At Melrose Designs, we take pride in helping homeowners enhance their living spaces with practical, beautifully integrated extensions. Our recent project on Beechfield Road in Liverpool is a shining example of how a well-planned single-storey rear extension can improve functionality, comfort, and value in a family home. The Vision Behind the

Farm office design At Melrose Designs, we take pride in delivering thoughtful, functional, and regulation-compliant architectural solutions. Our latest project at Gorse Farm showcases our approach to rural architecture—balancing traditional agricultural charm with modern standards for efficiency, fire safety, and comfort. A Purpose-Built Farm office design for a Working Environment This bespoke design proposal replaces

House Extension Warrington – What You Need to Know House Extension Warrington – Are you considering a house extension in Warrington? Whether you’re planning a larger kitchen, an extra bedroom, or even a home office, extending your home is one of the best ways to add space and value. At Melrose Designs, we specialise in

Liverpool home extension planning permission Liverpool home extension planning permission? One of the biggest questions homeowners face is whether they need planning permission or if their project falls under permitted development rights. The rules vary depending on the size, type, and location of your extension. In this guide, we’ll explain: ✔️ When planning permission is

Planning Permission Liverpool Planning Permission for a Home Extension in Liverpool Expanding your home with a well-designed extension is an excellent way to increase space, enhance functionality, and add value to your property. However, one of the most common questions homeowners ask is: Do I need planning permission for a home extension in Liverpool? Understanding

Architects in St Helens Why Melrose Designs is the Best Architect in St Helens  Let’s face it, choosing an architect is a big decision. It’s right up there with picking your wedding venue, naming your firstborn, and deciding whether to risk eating that questionable leftover in the fridge. But if you’re in St Helens and

April 1st Planning Fee Increase April 1st Planning Fee Increase – If you were hoping that April 1st would bring a few lighthearted pranks and a bit of harmless fun, we’ve got some news that’s definitely not a joke. From April 1st, 2025, planning application fees in England are going up – and no, it’s

Cost-effective architects in St. Helens   When it comes to home extensions, renovations, and structural redesigns, Melrose Designs stands as the most cost-effective and efficient architectural service in St. Helens. We understand that creating your dream home doesn’t have to come with an extravagant price tag, which is why we focus on delivering high-quality, affordable

    The Ultimate Guide to Home and House Extensions in 2025   Introduction Are you considering a home or house extension? Whether you need more space for a growing family, a home office, or simply want to enhance your property’s value, an extension is a fantastic investment. At Melrose Designs, we specialise in creating beautiful,

Planning a Home Extension Near You? Here’s Everything You Need to Know! If you’re searching for extension plans near me, you’re likely considering expanding your home to create more space, add value, or improve your lifestyle. At Melrose Designs, we specialise in home extension plans in Wigan and surrounding areas, offering expert architectural drawings, planning

Planning Permission for Your Extension?   Planning Permission for Your Extension? One of the most common questions homeowners ask is whether they need planning permission for their extension. The answer depends on the size, design, and impact of your proposed extension.   In many cases, you may be able to build under permitted development rights,

Why Melrose Designs is the Best Architecture Firm in Wigan. Architecture Firm in Wigan At Melrose Designs, we don’t just design buildings—we craft dreams, sculpt skylines, and make sure your neighbour is insanely jealous of your stunning new space. If you’re looking for the best architects in Wigan and the surrounding areas, you’ve found us.

  🏡 House Extensions Design Guide (UK 2025) By Kieran Atherton Director of Melrose Designs — specialists in home extension plans, Building Regulations drawings, and planning applications across Wigan, St Helens, Warrington, and the North West. — 🧱 Introduction: How to Design the Perfect House Extension Thinking about extending your home? Whether it’s a rear

        Expanding your living space through a rear house extension can be a fantastic way to add value and functionality to your home. Rear extensions are often the most practical choice, as they typically have little or no impact on the street scene. However, careful planning is essential to ensure they align

single-storey house extension drawings single-storey house extension drawings – Melrose Designs Are you feeling cramped in your current home and in need of more space for entertaining or relaxation with your family? A single-storey house extension can be the perfect solution for your needs, but it’s crucial to have a solid plan in place before

Buying A House That Needs An Extension   Buying A House That Needs An Extension and needs extension house drawings Buying a home is exciting — but what if the perfect house needs an extension to become your dream home? Whether you’re planning a larger kitchen, extra bedroom, or just more living space, extending a

3D House Extension Plans & Drawings   3D House Extension Plans Although the home you imagine in your mind may not be an exact match to the final product, there is a way to achieve a more accurate representation of your dream home. Thanks to advancements in computer graphics, three-dimensional (3D) house floor plans can

Lostock Hall Rear Single Storey Extension Kitchen Extension Lostock Hall We were tasked with helping our client with their ground floor rear kitchen extension in Kilngate, Lostock Hall. Our client had the desire to extend the property as much as possible while still complying with the Council’s current planning policies. To achieve this, we extended

🏗️ The Difference Between Planning Permission and Building Regulations Drawings   What’s the Difference Between Planning Permission and Building Regulations Drawings?   When planning a home extension or loft conversion, two distinct types of architectural drawings are required:Planning Permission drawings and Building Regulations drawings. Although they sound similar, they serve completely different purposes. This article,

  LEIGH RD – WIGAN HINDLEY GREEN – WIGAN DOUBLE-STOREY EXTENSION WIGAN We’ve recently completed Building Control drawings for a large double-storey extension on a charming 1950s terraced home on Leigh Road, Hindley Green, Wigan. This home, situated at the end of a block and facing a main road, had the perfect potential for transformation

  The Perfect Setup To Work From Home As experts in home remodelling, we have first-hand knowledge of how the epidemic affects people and how they use their homes. Whether our clients want interior renovations or to add a kitchen extension, our staff works to produce exceptional home improvement design packages for them. Working from

  SANDWOOD AVE – BOLTON SANDWOOD – BOLTON BOLTON BUNGALOW EXTENSION  Our client had recently purchased a small 1960s bungalow and we were brought into their Bolton extension project to advise on how best to increase the property’s value. The plot is situated on a quiet estate in Bolton (south facing) with superb sought-after views

      RADCLIFFE AVENUE, WARRINGTON. RADCLIFFE AVENUE, CULCHETH, WARRINGTON. GROUND FLOOR REAR EXTENSION CULCHETH , Warrington Transform Your Home with a Rear Extension Are you considering a ground floor rear extension in Culcheth, Warrington? At Melrose Designs, we specialise in architectural and structural extension planning, helping homeowners create spacious and functional living areas that enhance

Double Storey Extensions: The Cost-Effective Way   Double Storey Extensions: The Cost-Effective Way Your home’s worth can go up if you add extra space by adding a second story. Here are some considerations to make when organising such a project. Although a double-storey expansion may appear like a larger project than a single-story one, it

The typical image of an architect The Evolution of Architectural Design – From Drawing Boards to 3D BIM The Changing Image of an Architect When you think of an architect, you might picture someone sketching designs at a drawing table, meticulously crafting master plans with pen and ink. While this may have been the norm

Value Of Detailed Architecture Drawings The Value of Detailed Architectural Drawings for Your Project At Melrose Designs Architectural Services, we prioritise accuracy, clarity, and seamless communication. When you choose us for your extension plans or renovation designs in areas like Chorley and Wigan, our skilled architectural technicians deliver detailed architectural drawings that ensure your project

Extension Plan Project: Leigh   Extension Plan Project Leigh This project was undertaken and completed under Permitted Development rights, meaning no need for a Planning Permission application as the projection of the proposed rear wall from the existing rear wall was no more than 3m. It illustrates what can be accomplished with a moderately small

  What is a SAP calculation?   What is a SAP calculation? A SAP calculation is a spreadsheet-based calculation that is used to determine a building’s heat gains and losses. SAP refers to the “Standard Assessment Procedure”. It assures Building Regulation compliance at the design stage and provides an energy rating. Basic SAP calculations are

architects in wigan Why Choose Melrose Designs? We are a team of Structural Engineering and Building Control professionals with over thirty years’ experience in residential and commercial projects across the North West. Our background in structural/design engineering allows us to provide expert advice on all aspects of construction, as well as providing technical drawings, giving

🏗️ 2022 Changes to Building Regulations Part L for Home Extensions **Updated** By Kieran Atherton, Director of Melrose DesignsWigan-based architectural designer specialising in home extensions, loft conversions, and Building Regulations drawings across the North West. — 📘 Pillar Page: Understanding Building Regulations for Home Extensions (2022 Updates) If you’re planning a home extension or renovation,

  extension drawings extension drawings Wigan We recently designed this single-story full-width rear extension for our clients who wanted to update their bungalow with an open plan kitchen/dining and family space with an additional bedroom and office space. It has a pitched roof with large bi-fold doors which maximise the natural light. The large doors

  What is Permitted Development? What is Permitted Development? Permitted Development fundamentally consents to someone making alterations and additions to their buildings without needing Planning Permission.  A set of standards and some typical alterations are considered as being ‘pre-approved’ by planning. Naturally, this includes minor porches, certain rooflights etc. However, crucially, some fairly simple extensions and

architect drawings for extension A truly stunning transformation with an entire house renovation in Liverpool.  Our clients had big plans with a single storey rear extension creating a much desired open-plan kitchen with French doors overlooking their garden. A double storey side extension included removal of the garage and utility room to extend over to

architectural design in wigan architectural design in wigan We were appointed by our client to reconfigure and extend their property on Poplar Ave in Ashton-in-Makerfield, Wigan. With the intention of creating a large open plan kitchen/dining room, new utility and down stairs shower room creating a more practical setting.  The property already had an existing

  Replacing Your Conservatory Extension Plans Drawn Replacing Your Conservatory Extension Plans Drawn Is your existing conservatory in need of some serious TLC?  Are you thinking of adding a conservatory to your home?  It’s common for customers to come to us looking for advice on whether to replace their existing conservatory or whether they should

Planning Permission Extension Drawings Billinge – Approved & Ready to Build! Exciting news! We are thrilled to announce that planning permission has been approved for our client’s single-storey rear extension in Billinge. This stunning house extension design has completely transformed our client’s home, creating a bright and spacious living area that enhances both functionality and

architectural design in st helens   Architectural design in st helens At Melrose Designs, we’re proud to support homeowners across St Helens and the surrounding areas with thoughtful, practical, and cost-effective architectural design solutions. One of our recent projects in the area was a brilliant example of how a well-designed extension can transform a home

Building Regs Construction Drawings Approved St Helens Building Regs Construction Drawings Approved St Helens & Wigan Construction drawings completed and approved by Building Control ready for our client’s single-storey rear extension build in St Helens. The new design opens up part of the rear elevation, giving them the much-needed dining and open-plan kitchen space they

Why It’s Important When Choosing the Right Builder for Your Project Why it’s important when choosing the right Builder Selecting the right builder is one of the most critical decisions when planning a home extension, renovation, or new build. A skilled and trustworthy builder ensures that your project runs smoothly, stays on budget, and meets

Building Control Drawings Approved Wigan   Building Control Drawings Approved Wigan We have recently completed the design for our client’s single-storey rear extension architectural drawings in Winstanley. Their extension has a duel-pitched roof including Velux windows and bi-folding doors both of which make an amazing difference; the new layout is now inundated with natural light.

Loft Conversion Designs – A Beginner’s Guide to Loft Conversions   Loft Conversion Designs – A Beginner’s Guide to Loft Conversions   Thinking of a Loft Conversion? Here’s Everything You Need to Know   At first glance, getting a loft conversion in Wigan might seem daunting — planning rules, building regulations, and design decisions can

The difference between ‘Planning Permission’ and ‘Building Regs’ drawings The difference between ‘Planning Permission’ and ‘Building Regs’ drawings There are two stages to architectural drawings for your extension to get approved: ‘Planning Permission’ and ‘Building Regs’.  Planning Permission Drawings  are the initial designs and outline brief for the build. These drawings are primarily used to present the proposal

Building Regs Plans Approved – Wigan Building Regs Plans Approved – Wigan Recently, we were assigned to design a new 3m extension for our client in Wigan. Joined with the existing footprint, this will provide them with a large open-plan area, giving them the extra living/entertaining space, they are looking for.  As a priority, we

Why Do you Want to Extend? Why Do you Want to Extend? Extending your house is one of the most practical ways to get the home you have always dreamed of. Whether you’re a growing family with new arrival to make room for, or you are just looking for extra space for visiting guests, moving

Reasons why you need Technical Architectural and Structural Drawings Reasons why you need Technical Architectural and Structural Drawings Architectural technical drawings help to make a detailed layout of any type of construction that is either added to your home or even used to fabricate a totally new structure. They are an amazing means of getting

Extension Plans Drawn Throughout Wigan Extension Plans Made Simple with Melrose Designs in Wigan Hey there! Looking to add some extra space to your home? At Melrose Designs, we’ve been helping folks in Wigan and beyond with extension plans for over 15 years. Whether it’s a cozy loft conversion, a garage makeover, or a full-on

A Review the part A opening width table “Value of Factor X” A Review the part A opening width table “Value of Factor X” The table below can help you determine minimum pier and return widths to confirm the stability of masonry as a way of not requiring structural calculations. The table can be used

Does your existing living space need modernising? Does your existing living space need modernising? Transform Your Kitchen with Melrose Designs: Crafting the Heart of Your Home At Melrose Designs, we understand that the kitchen is more than just a room—it’s the heart of your home. It’s where meals are crafted, conversations unfold, and memories are

Planning Permission Granted in Newton-Le-Willows, St Helens Planning Permission Granted in Newton-le-Willows, St Helens – Side Extension & Layout Transformation We’re thrilled to share that planning permission has recently been granted by St Helens Council for one of our latest projects in Newton-le-Willows. Our clients, who live in a semi-detached home, approached us with a

Save Money on Your Extension plans – Wigan and Surrounding Areas Save Money on Your Extension plans – Wigan and Surrounding Areas Home extensions have surged in popularity for a simple reason: they transform your living space, boost property value, and allow you to enjoy your home to its fullest potential. At Melrose Designs, we

🏡 What Melrose Designs Can Do for You: Expert Architectural Design for Home Extensions By Kieran Atherton – Director of Melrose Designs, Wigan-based architectural design specialist with 10+ years of experience designing home extensions across the North West. Melrose Designs helps homeowners across Wigan, St Helens, Warrington, Liverpool, Bolton, and Leigh turn their house extension

Extension Plan Services St Helens – Melrose Designs  Extension Plan Services St Helens – Melrose Designs  Planning a house extension is one of the most exciting ways to improve your home. Whether you’re dreaming of a larger kitchen, an open-plan living space, or a new bedroom, extending your property is a smart investment that adds

  Planning Submitted – Highfield, Wigan Planning Submitted – Highfield, Wigan   Melrose Designs have recently submitted a planning proposal for our client’s ground floor rear extension on their property in Highfield, Wigan.  The ground floor layout was a standard semi-detached with a kitchen extension to the side as well as an adjoined garage. Our

  Planning Permission Approved – Wigan Planning granted for their semi-detached property on Winstanley, Wigan.!!!  This is great news for our client, as we’ve recently received planning approval from Wigan Council for their two-story side extension which will be built to assist with their son’s disability. The new extension will include a specialist therapy space

Why move when you can extend? Are Extension Plans Required? Why move when you can extend? Are Extension Plans Required?   Avoid the stress and cost of moving  These days, moving house is becoming increasingly stressful, as more and more people compete for the same houses. With mounting costs for solicitors, estate agents and stamp

Extension Plans Near Me – for your budget and lifestyle   Extension Plans Near Me – for your budget and lifestyle   If you’re looking to create more space in your home without the stress and cost of moving, a professionally designed extension could be the perfect solution. At Melrose Designs, we offer bespoke extension

    Loft Conversion Building Regs Plans Complete – Liverpool   Earlier this year, we provided detailed loft conversion plans and drawings for a project in Liverpool. We also provide loft conversion plans and drawings for clients all over the northwest including Wigan and St Helens. Before we started work on the drawings, we needed

Architectural Design service – Extension Plans Wigan   Architectural Design service – Extension Plans Wigan At Melrose Designs, we bring your dream home to life with practical, high-quality, and affordable architectural design services. Based near Wigan, we specialise in creating planning and building regulation drawings for house extensions, loft conversions, garage conversions, orangeries, outbuildings, and

Planning Permission & Building Regulation Drawings for Your Home Renovation, Extension or New Build   Planning Permission & Building Regulation Drawings for Your Home Renovation, Extension or New Build Whether you’re a growing family with a new arrival to make room for, or you’re just looking for extra space for visiting guests, moving to a

Extension Plans Drawn – Melrose Designs    Extension Plans Drawn – Melrose Designs When it comes to designing your home extension project, you will typically be restricted to four basic differences: a single or a double-storey extension with a flat or a pitched roof. To get a better understanding whether your plans are expected to

  What is Permitted Development? What is Permitted Development? Permitted Development What is Permitted Development? A Guide for Homeowners Understanding Permitted Development Rights Permitted Development (PD) allows homeowners to make certain alterations and extensions to their properties without the need for full Planning Permission. These rights are subject to specific limitations and conditions set out