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If you own a home in a conservation area, you already know these locations are special. They protect the character, history, and architecture of the area — and they often come with higher property values. But if you want to extend or alter your home, the rules are different, and navigating them successfully takes expertise.

At Acre Design, we’ve spent over 20 years working on major bespoke extensions and refurbishments in conservation areas across the North East — from elegant Victorian terraces in Tynemouth and Jesmond, to period villas in Gosforth, stone-built properties in Hexham, and coastal gems in Alnmouth and Warkworth. We understand how to design spaces that meet modern needs while respecting heritage — and how to secure the necessary approvals to make them a reality.

What is a Conservation Area?

A conservation area is a designated zone where local authorities have agreed the existing architecture and streetscape are worth protecting for future generations. It could be a row of handsome Edwardian homes in Whitley Bay, a market town high street in Alnwick, or modest miners’ cottages in Stocksfield with unique historical significance.

The aim is to prevent overdevelopment and preserve the visual and cultural character of the area — protecting both its beauty and its value.

How to check if your home is in a Conservation Area

Most local authority websites have maps you can search by postcode. Alternatively, you can use tools like:

www.conservationareachecker.com

If your home is in a conservation area, there’s a strong chance you’ll need full planning permission for changes to the exterior — even for works that would normally be covered by permitted development rights.

Understanding local guidance

Every conservation area — whether it’s the leafy streets of Jesmond, the cobbled lanes of Corbridge, or the historic quayside of Berwick-upon-Tweed — has its own written appraisal and management plan. This sets out the key features, materials, and details that contribute to its character.

In many areas, permitted development rights are restricted under an Article 4 Direction. This means alterations like replacing windows, adding extensions, or even changing roof materials require approval. The good news: with the right design, most projects can still gain consent.

Working with Conservation Area Officers

Applications in conservation areas are often reviewed in consultation with a Conservation Area Officer (CAO). Their priority is to maintain the area’s original appearance, remove inappropriate past additions, and ensure any new work is sympathetic in scale, style, and materials.

At Acre Design, we work closely with planning teams across Northumberland, Newcastle, and County Durham. We know what Conservation Area Officers look for in Tynemouth may differ from their approach in Alnwick or Hexham, and we design accordingly.

What’s possible?

Loft Conversions

  • Conservation-style rooflights at the front
  • Small, traditional dormers to the rear
  • Avoid large box dormers or full hip-to-gable changes unless there is precedent

Bedroom Extensions

  • Side extensions must be clearly subservient, with a set-back from the main frontage
  • Corner plots are treated carefully, as both sides are street-facing
  • Matching materials and detailing are essential

Ground Floor Extensions

  • Porches: Small, high-quality, and often largely glazed to reduce visual mass
  • Side Extensions: Subservient, matching materials, and proportionate width
  • Rear Extensions: More flexibility, sometimes allowing modern designs if sympathetic to the original structure

Why it’s worth the effort

Yes, conservation area approvals can take longer and require more documentation. But they also protect your street from poor-quality development — and the right extension can enhance both your lifestyle and your property’s value. This is particularly important in sought-after areas like Jesmond, Tynemouth, Gosforth, and Warkworth, where premium architecture and location deserve an equally premium design approach.

How we help

Our role is to manage the process from start to finish:

  • Researching local conservation policies specific to your area
  • Designing with both your lifestyle and heritage in mind
  • Preparing and submitting applications with the right level of detail
  • Liaising with planning officers to give your project the best chance of success

Your role is simple:

  1. Share your budget
  2. Explain how you live now and what you want from your home
  3. Tell us your style and preferences

We’ll take it from there.

Thinking about extending in a conservation area?
Contact Acre Design for a free consultation and discover how we can deliver your dream space while protecting the character of your home in Tynemouth, Jesmond, Hexham, Alnwick, Corbridge, or anywhere across the North East.

If you’ve never taken on a major home project before, it can be hard to know exactly what’s included — and, just as importantly, what isn’t. Like many professions, there’s a huge difference between the bare minimum service and a fully managed, high-quality experience.

At Acre Design, we often meet homeowners who assumed “getting plans drawn” was all they needed, only to find themselves overwhelmed once the real work of planning, budgeting, approvals, and construction began. Your choice of service will shape not only the quality of your finished home but also how smooth — or stressful — the journey is to get there.

The home design services spectrum

The “Basic Plans” approach

At one end of the scale, you’ll find the low-cost, plan-only service. Often a one-person operation, these providers offer just enough drawings to get planning approval and building control sign-off, then leave you to manage everything else.

You might get:

  • A site visit and manual measurements
  • Simple 2D CAD drawings of existing and proposed layouts
  • A single concept sketch based on your initial conversation
  • Minimal detailing and no moodboards or visualisations
  • Reactive rather than strategic revisions
  • Basic building control drawings with generic specifications
  • Pros:
  • Lower upfront fees
  • Works for small, simple projects if you know exactly what you want
  • Cons:
  • Limited creative input or problem-solving
  • Plans often lack detail, leading to confusion on site
  • No proactive budgeting or cost control
  • Higher risk of delays, unexpected costs, or missed opportunities

The specialist turnkey architectural design service

At the other end is the specialist, full-service architectural design practice — like Acre Design. This is a premium, fully managed approach for homeowners making a major investment in their property and wanting the process handled from concept to completion.

Here’s what you can expect:

1. Preparation & Briefing

  • Laser-accurate point-cloud survey for precise measurements
  • Detailed 3D model of your home as a base for design
  • Multiple layout options, zoning ideas, and feasibility studies
  • Early-stage budget guidance to align expectations
  • Curated moodboards for interior and exterior design inspiration
  • Analysis of site context, natural light, and views from the start

2. Concept Design

  • Several creative design options, with clear pros and cons
  • Full 3D visualisations and walkthroughs so you can “experience” the space before committing
  • Early detailing of materials and architectural features
  • Designs tailored to your lifestyle, taste, and likely build cost

3. Developed Design & Planning

  • Comprehensive planning reports to support approval
  • Coordination with planning officers and specialist consultants (e.g. heritage, ecology)
  • Accurate build cost estimates before submission
  • Designs optimised for both aesthetics and buildability

4. Technical Design & Build Support

  • Fully coordinated, dimensioned construction drawing set
  • Integrated input from structural, drainage, and energy specialists
  • Detailed specification and tailored schedule of works
  • Kitchen, bathroom, lighting, and ceiling layouts included
  • Tender management with trusted contractors for accurate, like-for-like pricing
  • Contract administration to keep the build on track and budget in check

Why the specialist approach matters

For high-value homes and complex projects, the difference in service can mean the difference between a stressful, budget-busting build and a smooth, rewarding experience.

With Acre Design, you’re supported by an entire team — technicians, designers, and project managers — all working to a proven process to deliver your vision while protecting your time, budget, and peace of mind.

Basic providers may offer a lower starting price, but they cannot match the depth of service, foresight, and risk management that a specialist team delivers. If you’re planning a major extension, renovation, or conversion, the real question isn’t “What does it cost?” — it’s “What’s included?”

Thinking about a major home project?
Let’s talk about how Acre Design can manage every stage for you — from first sketch to final handover.

Many of our clients come to us with the same dilemma: They love their home, they love the area—but the space no longer supports how they want to live.

That was exactly the situation in my own family. We live in a solid 1950s home in Dinnington. Great neighbourhood, excellent schools, easy access to the countryside—it ticked all the boxes. But with two growing children, we were starting to outgrow it. Like many households, we had an old conservatory that was underused and no longer fit for purpose.

We replaced it with a carefully considered extension that opens out from the kitchen and flows naturally into the garden. It’s a beautifully resolved space, bright, functional, and thoughtfully designed to improve everyday living.

The result? Genuinely transformative.

There’s now room to cook, relax, entertain and enjoy family life—without compromise. It’s comfortable, calm, and connected to the rest of the house in a way the old layout simply didn’t allow. On a practical level, we no longer feel squeezed. On a personal level, it’s a joy to spend time in.

Most importantly, we’re no longer thinking about moving. We’ve made our home work for the next chapter of our lives.

Why This Matters to You

If you’re starting to feel that your home no longer fits your lifestyle, an extension can do more than just add square footage—it can restore balance, create flow, and improve the way you live every day.

We work with homeowners across Newcastle, Northumberland and the wider Northeast who are looking to make a lasting investment in their homes. Whether you’re interested in reworking your ground floor layout, creating an open-plan kitchen-living space, or future-proofing your home with single-storey living, we can help you explore what’s possible—with clarity and confidence.

At Acre Design, we specialise in high-quality residential extensions that blend architectural integrity with practical needs. Our team guides you from initial concept through to planning, tendering and build, with experience, attention to detail, and full transparency at every step.

Planning Ahead

Design, planning and contractor availability all take time, so early preparation leads to better outcomes.

Whether you’re ready to begin or just gathering ideas, we’d love to hear from you. You can let us know where you are in the process by filling out the short form below. We’ll use your feedback to make sure our advice and updates are as useful as possible.

Creating an open plan living space is a great way to maximize the use of available space, while giving the home a cohesive style. When designing your open space, it’s important to consider elements like scale, flow, and texture to ensure that the end result is both aesthetically pleasing and comfortable.

Identify the Type of Space

Before designing your open plan space, it is important to identify which type of space you need. Ask yourself questions like what type of activities or gatherings will be taking place in the room. Will it be an area used for entertaining? If so, will there be a designated dining area? Once you have identified the types of activities that will take place in the space, you can begin to consider how to create an environment conducive to them.

Form Follows Function

Function should be the driving design force behind any plan for an open space. The goal should be to create a functional layout that maximizes all available space for each activity. This can include anything from properly designed counter top space or seating arrangements to implementing natural light sources or movement patterns when needed. It is important to consider how the activities within each space will interact with one another so that each element has its own purpose, but still interacts with the rest of the environment in harmony.

Set a Design Theme

When designing an open plan space, it is essential to establish a design theme that can carry throughout the whole area. This allows all elements of the plan to fit together seamlessly and also helps create a focal point in each area. Factors such as colour, texture, pattern and light will all help determine your overall theme. Utilize textures or finishes that both border and contrast with one another depending on what activity is occurring within each space for a stylish finish.

Think About How You Will Use the Space

As with all rooms, it is important to consider use when designing an open plan space. Think about which activities and events you generally take part in and which areas need to be blocked off for these activities. This will help inform your overall design as it will help define the area for each event or activity. For example, you may wish to include comfortable seating areas for relaxing and family time, as well as plenty of storage solutions to create a clutter-free environment. One of our clients recently shared with us how glad she was that she encorporated a second dishwasher. Christmas is now that bit tidier and less stressful because of this detail! We always like to remind clients about the bins – a hidden bin and recycling area can transform the feel of a space.

Incorporate Flexible Solutions

When designing an open plan space, flexibility should be a priority. Incorporate furniture that can serve different purposes easily. This could mean buying modular or multi-functional furniture such as day beds, which can double as sofas for extra seating when needed. Similarly, use rugs to create distinct zones within the same open floor plan and move them around according to your needs. With a flexible layout and design, you can turn your open plan space into different atmospheres for working, relaxing or entertaining guests at a moment’s notice.

Think About How You Will Use the Space

As with all rooms, it is important to consider use when designing an open plan space. Think about which activities and events you generally take part in and which areas need to be blocked off for these activities. This will help inform your overall design as it will help define the area for each event or activity. For example, you may wish to include comfortable seating areas for relaxing and family time, as well as plenty of storage solutions to create a clutter-free environment. One of our clients recently shared with us how glad she was that she encorporated a second dishwasher. Christmas is now that bit tidier and less stressful because of this detail! We always like to remind clients about the bins – a hidden bin and recycling area can transform the feel of a space.

If you love your home but need more space, working with Acre Design to extend it can be a smarter and more rewarding choice than moving. We help homeowners across Northumberland, North Tyneside and Newcastle upon Tyne design high-quality extensions that not only add space, but also improve how the home flows, feels and functions. With the right design, you can stay in the location you love, while creating a home that better supports the way you want to live.

Here are some of the most popular types of extensions we design for clients in the region, along with the benefits of each approach.

Loft Conversions

A loft conversion is a practical way to create an additional bedroom, home office, or dedicated hobby space. This type of extension makes use of underused roof space and can add significant flexibility to your home without altering the footprint. With the right design, a converted loft can feel every bit as integrated and comfortable as the rest of the house.

Ground Floor Extensions

Extending at ground level can dramatically enhance the way you use your home. Whether you are opening up the rear of the house for an open plan kitchen and living area, creating a ground floor guest suite, or introducing a more connected indoor–outdoor lifestyle, this type of extension is ideal for families and those planning for long-term comfort and accessibility.

Side and Two Storey Extensions

Side and double storey extensions offer excellent potential for improving both ground and first floor layouts. They are often used to create additional bedrooms, bathrooms, utility spaces, or home offices, while reconfiguring existing areas to improve flow. These extensions work especially well on properties with unused side access, garage structures, or generous plots, and can provide a seamless continuation of your home’s existing architecture.

Start planning with Acre Design

Extending your home is a significant project, but with the right team, it can be an enjoyable and rewarding journey. At Acre Design, we help homeowners across Northumberland, Newcastle and North Tyneside reimagine their space with creativity, clarity and care.

Thinking about extending your home? Book a free call with Acre Design today and take the first step towards creating a space that truly works for the way you live. 

A well-built timber frame extension can transform the way you live, adding light, space, and value to your home. But the quality of the result depends heavily on the builder you choose.
If you live in Newcastle upon Tyne, Northumberland, or North Tyneside — and are planning a significant investment in your property — here are five expert tips to help you select a builder who can deliver to the highest standards.

1. Research Beyond the Basics

Don’t just pick the first name from a search result. Start by looking at local timber frame specialists who have a proven track record with projects of a similar size and complexity to yours. Ask trusted friends or neighbours for recommendations, then review online feedback carefully — paying attention to consistency over time. Membership of recognised trade associations such as the Federation of Master Builders or National Federation of Builders is a good sign of professionalism.

2. Review Their Portfolio with a Critical Eye

A strong portfolio should show not just attractive finishes, but evidence of sound construction, attention to detail, and consistent quality across multiple projects. Ask to see examples of timber frame extensions similar to yours in scale and style — ideally in person, not just in photos. Look for work that integrates seamlessly with existing homes, especially in older or character properties.

3. Ask About Their Quality Assurance Process

A reputable builder will be able to explain how they maintain standards throughout the build. This should include staged inspections, documented checks, and a clear process for resolving issues. Ask whether they offer a written warranty on workmanship — a sign that they stand behind the quality of their build long after completion.

4. Read Every Detail of the Quotation

High-quality timber frame extensions require premium materials and skilled labour — and this should be reflected in a clear, detailed quotation. Beware of vague or incomplete quotes that leave too much open to “extras.” Clarify exactly what is and isn’t included, and confirm that materials meet the specifications your design calls for.

5. Check Qualifications and Insurance

Every contractor and subcontractor on site should hold up-to-date trade qualifications, with evidence available for you to review. Insurance cover — including public liability — is essential for protecting you and your investment. Don’t be afraid to ask for proof before work begins.

Need Trusted Recommendations?

At Acre Design Newcastle, we’ve spent years working alongside some of the best timber frame extension builders in the North East — from Newcastle and North Tyneside to Northumberland’s rural villages. We know which teams consistently deliver, and which to avoid.

Book an “Ask the Expert” call today, and we’ll guide you through choosing the right builder for your project, ensuring your investment is in safe, capable hands.

If you’ve been thinking about extending your kitchen to create more space, better light, or simply a layout that works for how you live now, we can take care of the entire process from start to finish.

Whether you’ve just moved into a property that needs adapting, or you’re looking to improve the home you already love, a well-designed kitchen extension can completely transform both the space and your day-to-day comfort.

At Acre Design, we don’t just design extensions, we manage the full journey. From the first idea to planning approval, technical drawings and coordination with trusted builders, we handle it all. So you don’t have to.

Designed around your lifestyle

We start by understanding how you want the space to feel and function. Do you want a quiet, comfortable kitchen to cook in without clutter? Or something more open, with room to entertain, enjoy the garden, or dine with friends?

We listen, advise, and develop thoughtful, bespoke layouts that suit your home and your lifestyle. Every design we create is tailored — no templates, no guesswork.

Let us handle all the moving parts

Acre Design brings together everything you need under one roof:

  • Concept and layout design
  • Planning applications and local authority liaison
  • Building regulations and structural engineering
  • Technical drawings for builders
  • Recommendations for contractors and coordination through to build

You don’t need to deal with multiple consultants or chase up planning paperwork — we take care of it, efficiently and professionally.

Planning permission? Leave it to us

Planning rules vary from one street to the next. What’s approved for your neighbour may not apply to your home, especially if you’re in a conservation area or own a period property.

We deal with planning teams across the Northeast every day and understand what’s likely to be accepted. We’ll handle all communication and submissions on your behalf and give you the best possible chance of smooth approval.

Build-ready plans that avoid surprises

One of the biggest frustrations in home projects is when costs rise during the build. It often comes down to incomplete drawings or vague decisions left until the last minute. We don’t work that way. Every Acre Design project includes a full set of build-ready technical drawings, designed to give you clarity and your builder confidence. The result is a smoother build with fewer surprises and no last-minute compromises.

Built-in flexibility, with expert guidance

Many of our clients want quality without having to micromanage every detail. That’s where our experience comes in. We’ll help you understand what’s possible within your budget, present you with options, and guide you through any decisions, whether it’s where to place lighting, how to configure an island, or which materials will stand the test of time.

Need space for a range cooker? Prefer warm, natural light? Want to explore more sustainable heating options? We’ll handle the detail and give you clear recommendations at every stage.

Made for older homes

Much of our work is with Victorian, Edwardian and mid-century properties, often with small kitchens, awkward layouts, or limited natural light. We know how to design extensions that feel at home with the existing architecture while significantly improving how the space works. That might mean a clean-lined modern contrast, or a seamless match with the original style. Either way, we’ll guide the design to suit your home and taste.

Peace of mind, from start to finish

When you work with Acre Design, you’re not just hiring someone to draw a floorplan — you’re partnering with a team that manages the whole process. You’ll always know what’s happening and what comes next.

We believe good design should make life easier, not more complicated. And that applies as much to the process as the finished space.

Ready to create a better kitchen?

We’d love to help you create a space that’s calm, well-planned, and made for the way you live, without the stress of managing it all yourself.

Get in touch to arrange your free consultation and find out how Acre Design can deliver your kitchen extension, fully managed, from concept to completion. 

At Acre Design, we know that successful projects are built not just on great design, but on clear communication and dependable support from day one. That’s why the role of Office Manager is so central to what we do — and why so many of our clients appreciate having Laura as their first point of contact.

Laura has been with Acre since the very beginning. With more than 500 completed projects under her belt, she knows the full process inside-out — from planning permission and technical drawings to day-to-day coordination with clients, contractors, and local authorities.

We spoke to Laura about how she supports our clients — and why a well-organised, consistent approach can make such a difference to your experience.

What’s your role at Acre Design?

I’m the Office Manager, which means I oversee the day-to-day coordination of projects and communications. I’m usually the first person a client speaks to, and I stay involved throughout the design process, keeping everything on track and making sure questions are answered quickly and clearly.

That might mean scheduling meetings, resolving queries with planners, or ensuring a builder has everything they need. I’m here to make the process easier for everyone involved.

What do you think clients value most about working with you?

I’d like to think it’s the consistency, knowing they can always get a straight answer from someone who understands the details of their project.

I aim to be responsive, approachable, and well-informed. Clients often tell me they appreciate having one clear point of contact who knows what’s going on and can step in when needed.

What do you enjoy most about the role?

No two days are the same. I enjoy being involved in every part of a project — from the initial enquiry to the final drawings going out. It’s rewarding to know that by keeping everything organised behind the scenes, I’m helping deliver a better experience for our clients.

What makes a well-run project?

Communication and clarity. When everyone knows what’s happening, when, and why, things go smoothly. It avoids stress, cuts down delays, and builds trust. That’s exactly what I focus on: making sure nothing gets missed, and that clients always feel informed and supported.

What’s your biggest strength?

Organisation, without question. I keep detailed records, track every enquiry, and make sure our systems support the whole team. It means we can respond quickly, keep everyone aligned, and manage complex projects with minimal friction.

What should clients expect from working with Acre?

They can expect a well-run, professionally managed process. We’re not just here to design beautiful spaces – we’re here to make the experience as clear, structured and supportive as possible. I see my role as helping to reduce uncertainty and ensure that every step feels under control.

If you’re planning a project and want a team that communicates clearly and takes care of the detail, Laura is one of the reasons our clients feel in safe hands from day one. Get in touch today to speak with the team and arrange your free, no-obligation consultation.

Project Location : Birtley, Gateshead, Tyne and Wear

Project Description: Rear and Side Extension

Lead Architectural Designer: Robbie Evans

Before

After

We are delighted that Planning Permission has been granted on this large rear and side extension to this detached property in Birtley.

The original layout of the property has small individual rooms, which don’t suit the modern-day, open plan living that many of us dream of. Our beautifully designed, modern rear extension (architectural designer Robbie Evans lead the design team on this project) will create a large kitchen and dining space with an existing backroom turned into a cosy snug room with log burner. To the side of the property, an existing side passage between the house and the detached garage is to become enclosed to create a large utility space with glazing that enables you to see through the property.

Before

After

The extension is designed to create a modern, ergonomic living experience paired with a contemporary exterior finish. Rendered in white with simple details, clean lines and dark grey framed aluminium windows and doors, this extension will create a minimalist and monochromatic feel.

This new extension will improve the way the clients live and socialise; both as a family and with friends… creating a home for life.

Original Floor Plan

Final Floor Plan

Needs and Options Review

Original Floor Plan

Previous
Next

Proposed Floor Plans

For this project we initially came up with a number of alternative layouts for this house extension. Please use the slider to see the various options we explored. When developing these design options, we consider: the budget, the relevant planning constraints, the client’s taste, the priorities for the space and how the client wishes to use their new space. It is then in the hands of our clients to decide which option they would like to run with together. We can then get into the finer details and develop the design to ensure it is absolutely perfect for our client.

We always start any project by exploring different design and layout options so that our clients can make an informed decision on their home extension design before beginning the build.


COMPLETE YOUR HOME EXTENSION ON TIME AND ON BUDGET

We have had a number of clients in Newcastle and the North East unsure about timescales for their build projects as contractors, designers and materials are becoming increasingly in demand. Let’s take a look at the situation in our area.

2021 has certainly been a strange time for wannabe home extenders. A number of factors have come together to form a bit of a perfect storm. In this blog post, I (Alistair Crerar, MD here at Acre Design) wanted to give my thoughts on the situation, having spoken to hundreds of  stakeholders in the industry in 2021 (and over the last 8 years of running Acre Design). Every day I speak to builders, agents, clients & planners about the residential extension sector, this small part of the construction industry that Acre Design works within, and loves with all its heart – if a small architectural practice can have a heart (I think it can). 

 Many people have been able to save money during the past two years where usual spending behaviours (holidays, going out…) have been restricted.  This, coupled with massive changes in working patterns (working from home becoming commonplace) led many to think about extending their home. At Acre Design, we saw an incredible demand peak early in the year. This made sense, a lot of people spent ALL of their time within the four walls of their home (the one exception was that one hour exercise window in lockdown one). Of course we started to look to see what we can do to improve our lives at home, or at the very least, adapt things to make things a little more comfortable and organised.  

With this extra cash in the bank and being locked away 23 hours of the day, a rise in house prices also really started kicking in at the start of the year as people sought greener pastures. Estate agents we spoke with told us that in North Tyneside and areas of Newcastle, houses have gone for £80k over the vendors’ asking prices! This isn’t on mansions either, these are pretty standard houses, which happen to be in truly lovely parts of our beautiful North East of England. House price inflation has certainly ramped up over the last 12 months, meaning that by re-mortgaging, more equity could be released should funding be needed for extending. And if credit isn’t required, it makes extending much more viable, as our future clients wouldn’t be breaking the ceiling price anymore.  

One other unquantifiable with limited data is the feeling that there is a bit of a migration North, possibly due to high prices down South, and the ability to work from home. It looks as though many people are cashing in their chips, selling their properties in London and the South and buying up large, period homes in the North East – Northumberland and North Tyneside in particular.  At Acre Design,  we have had half a dozen clients who have done that this year. Can we blame them? It’s a glorious place to live!

Things have died down a little since the end of the Summer, when the kids went back to school, and people tentatively started heading back to the office. However, in many cases, this return isn’t as permanent or full time as it once was, and with more time spent at home, the little bug bears about lack of space, storage, number of toilets, washing machine rumbles in zoom meeting backgrounds continues to grow and demand remains consistently high.  

We are now in October, and people are getting in touch, hoping to find a builder for a spring start. I am afraid that even in normal times that is just not realistic. We monitor closely each of our clients’ projects and the average design process takes eight weeks. There are big decisions to make, and clients need to make the right decisions as they will be the ones living with them when works are complete. With a hard working team and regular weekly meetings with clients, we can move quickly at each stage of the design process, but we will usually need to wait whilst clients mull over their options.  

For clients who go ahead today with Acre Design, we can forecast that in eight weeks  (December now… yikes!) there will be a detailed set of technical & construction drawings ready to go to a contractor with. These plans really are the minimum the contractor will need to be able to submit the quotes back to Acre Design or directly to the client dependant on the level of services a client has opted to use us for.  

Last week I spoke with Neil at Modern Living Projects  and also James Dickinson from JWD and they both agreed with me about the demand peaks at the moment, and that their order books will be full until September and late August respectively. That doesn’t leave much availability to get a build project complete in time to celebrate Christmas in 2022. 

These time frames are from two large, local contractors, but this is synonymous with what I’ve heard from others in the industry. There will be availability left for next Summer, but I think Spring is now out of the question. If you are thinking of extending and you’d like to try and find a gap in a diary for next year, the best bet is to start the design phase now, and be at peace with an early 2023 start on site, because if you can’t have Christmas in your extension, you certainly will be able to look forward to relaxing and enjoying your brand new extended dream home, whatever gets thrown at us over the coming years! 

As part of our mission to keep our customers updated with industry developments, we will continue to monitor the situation. For more information on extending your home or to find out how we can help design your next residential building development, get in touch with us at Acre Design on 0191 680 8088 or e-mail [email protected]. Our friendly, experienced staff are waiting to take your call.

We hope that you find this information helpful, at Acre Design Newcastle we are passionate about all things sustainable and innovative.
Take a look at our recent projects for further inspiration! Get in touch to arrange a free feasibility discussion with Alistair.