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.

We are delighted to confirm that planning permission has been approved for a substantial rear and side extension to a detached home in Birtley, Gateshead, Tyne and Wear. This project was led by Robbie Evans, one of Acre Design’s experienced architectural designers.

The original property was typical of many homes in the area, with a series of small, separate rooms that felt disconnected and did not suit the open-plan living that so many homeowners now aspire to. Our proposal reimagines the layout entirely, creating a home designed for contemporary family life.

A thoughtful redesign

At the rear, the new extension will open up the heart of the home with a spacious kitchen and dining area — perfect for cooking, entertaining, and everyday family life. An existing back room will be transformed into a snug, complete with a log burner for cosy evenings.

To the side, we have enclosed the former passage between the house and detached garage to create a generous new utility space. Carefully positioned glazing will allow views through the property, bringing light and connection throughout the ground floor.

Modern design, timeless comfort

The extension has been designed to balance contemporary style with lasting practicality. Externally, clean lines, white render and dark grey aluminium-framed windows and doors create a refined, monochromatic aesthetic. Internally, the new spaces will offer an ergonomic flow that supports both family life and entertaining — a home designed not just for today, but for the years ahead.

Exploring options together

As with all Acre Design projects, we began with a Needs and Options Review, presenting the clients with multiple layout choices. This process allowed them to consider budget, planning constraints, and their lifestyle priorities before selecting the option that best aligned with their vision. From there, we developed the design in detail, ensuring every element supports the way they want to live.

A home for life

This extension will transform the property into a modern, versatile home that feels connected, light-filled, and ready for the next chapter of family life. At Acre Design, we pride ourselves on guiding clients across Newcastle, Gateshead, Northumberland and the wider North East through every stage — from concept and planning to technical design and build oversight.

Thinking about extending your home? Book a complimentary Ask the Expert call with Acre Design and explore how we can reimagine your space.

At Acre Design, one of the questions we hear most often is: “If I start now, could my extension be ready by Christmas?”It’s an understandable goal — many families dream of hosting festive gatherings in a newly extended kitchen or relaxing in a freshly designed living space.

The reality is that extension projects take careful planning, and timescales are shaped by more than just the build itself. From the design process and planning permission to contractor availability and materials supply, there are many steps that need to be factored in.

Why extensions take time

For most projects, the design and planning phase alone takes around eight weeks. This allows time to explore different layout options, work through design choices, and prepare a detailed set of technical drawings that contractors can confidently price from.

Builders across Newcastle, Gateshead, Northumberland and North Tyneside are often booked months in advance. Even with a completed design, securing a reliable contractor and slotting into their schedule can take time. That’s why starting early is the best way to avoid disappointment — whether your goal is to enjoy your new space next Christmas, or to plan ahead for the following summer.

A market in high demand

Since more people are spending time at home, demand for extensions has remained consistently high across the North East. Families want open-plan spaces, dedicated home offices, and better storage — all of which puts pressure on contractors’ schedules. Rising house prices and greater flexibility in working patterns have also made extending more attractive than moving, adding to this demand.

What this means for you

If you’re considering an extension in Newcastle, Northumberland, or North Tyneside, the key is to begin the design process well in advance of when you’d like the build to be complete. By starting early, you can:

Secure a place in your preferred contractor’s diary
Make design decisions without feeling rushed
Avoid unexpected costs from last-minute changes
Look forward to a smooth, well-managed build

Our advice

If you’re dreaming of a new space for Christmas or summer entertaining, the best time to begin is now. With Acre Design, you’ll have a clear, structured timeline from the outset — from your initial design options and planning approval to tendering, contractor selection and build oversight.

That way, you can relax knowing your project is in safe hands, with realistic expectations about when you’ll be enjoying your finished home.

Thinking of extending your home in the North East? Book a complimentary Ask the Expert call today, and let’s plan your project together.

One of the most common concerns we hear from clients is whether the planning process will delay their project. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many homeowners assumed that planning applications would grind to a halt. In fact, the opposite proved true in many areas — and there are useful lessons to take forward today.

How local planning teams responded

Former Chief Planner Steve Quartermain called for planning authorities to be “practical, pragmatic and plan for recovery.” Local councils across the North East — including Northumberland, Newcastle, Gateshead, North Tyneside and South Tyneside — followed this approach.

At Acre Design, we saw first-hand that planning applications continued to move forward at a steady pace. Most planning officers adapted quickly to home working, and communication remained responsive. While some authorities took longer than others, the majority of our clients experienced minimal disruption. Importantly, councils showed flexibility where deadlines risked lapsing, ensuring applications were not unduly penalised.

Shifts that benefited homeowners

One lasting change has been the move to digital-first submissions. In-person visits to council offices and hard-copy applications were no longer possible — but for practices like ours, this was never the preferred route. Electronic submissions have streamlined the process, making it faster and easier to track.

Temporary legislation also introduced new permitted development rights, allowing certain works to proceed without full applications. While some of these measures were short-term, they reflect a wider effort to keep the planning system moving for households and businesses alike.

What this means today

For homeowners in the North East planning an extension, refurbishment, or self-build, the key takeaway is reassurance: the planning system has proven resilient, even under pressure. With the right preparation and a clear design package, most applications continue to progress smoothly.

At Acre Design, we work closely with planning teams across Newcastle, Northumberland and North Tyneside, ensuring applications are presented professionally, supported with the right information, and aligned with local policies. This not only reduces the risk of delay but also improves the likelihood of approval.

Our advice

If you are considering a major home project, don’t let worries about planning delays hold you back. By starting the design phase early and working with an experienced team, you can move forward with confidence.

Book a complimentary Ask the Expert call with Acre Design to discuss your plans and learn how we can guide you through the planning process with clarity and ease.

Anyone planning a home extension or refurbishment will know that the cost of building materials has a direct impact on the overall budget. Over recent years, prices for timber, steel, cement, and roofing products have seen sharp rises — often making headlines. But what’s behind these increases, and what does it mean for homeowners in Newcastle, Northumberland and the wider North East?

Why have material costs risen?

Several factors have combined to push prices higher. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global supply chains at the same time as demand for home improvements surged. Brexit added additional complexity, with new paperwork and longer lead times for imported products. Shortages of drivers and labour across the UK construction sector also contributed.

The result has been a “perfect storm” of reduced supply and increased demand — which has inevitably driven up costs. Timber has been one of the most affected, with plywood and structural softwood seeing record price increases. Roofing tiles, cement and steel have also been impacted, with knock-on effects across almost every type of project.

What does this mean for homeowners?

While short-term price rises can feel daunting, the key message is not to panic. Prices in the construction sector have always moved in cycles, and what goes up will eventually settle as supply catches up with demand. For anyone planning an extension or refurbishment, the most important step is to start with a well-prepared design and a clear budget.

At Acre Design, we provide detailed technical drawings and specifications that give builders the clarity they need to price accurately. We also work with trusted local contractors across Newcastle, North Tyneside and Northumberland, who keep us updated on lead times and availability. This reduces the risk of nasty surprises and helps our clients make informed decisions about timing and cost.

Looking ahead

Industry forecasts suggest that while prices may remain high in some areas, supply chain resilience is improving and cost pressures are likely to ease over time. Careful planning — and choosing a design practice that manages the process end to end — remains the best way to protect your investment.

Our advice

If you are thinking about extending or refurbishing your home, don’t delay your plans purely because of headlines about material costs. By starting early, locking in a design, and working with a well-prepared tender package, you will be in the best position to secure fair pricing and move forward with confidence.

Book a complimentary Ask the Expert call with Acre Design to discuss your project and learn how we can help you plan, design and deliver a home that works beautifully for the future.

We are delighted to welcome Robbie Evans to Acre Design as a Senior Architectural Designer. Based in Newcastle, Robbie brings strong experience in residential design, sustainability, and client-focused architecture, and will play a key role in helping us deliver beautifully considered homes across the North East.

Robbie studied architecture at Newcastle University, where highlights included a live build project in Kielder Forest. Working as part of a small design team, he helped create and construct a new bird hide overlooking Bakethin Reservoir — a project that combined practical craftsmanship with thoughtful, sustainable design.

Since then, Robbie has continued to refine his skills across a wide range of residential projects. He is particularly passionate about guiding clients through the design journey: “The thing I love most about my job is taking an idea in someone’s head and turning it into something tangible they can live in and enjoy.”

A designer who shares our values

Robbie’s approach reflects Acre’s commitment to quality, clarity and sustainability. He believes strongly in the responsibility of designers to consider the wider social and environmental impact of their work, aligning with upcoming regulatory changes that will move UK construction towards net zero carbon.

With a keen eye for detail, strong communication skills, and a natural ability to put clients at ease, Robbie has already become a valuable part of our creative team. Outside of work, he enjoys cooking, DIY, and furniture-making — skills that add to his appreciation of materials, craft and the finer details of design.

Looking ahead

As a practice, we are excited to see Robbie’s input on upcoming residential extensions, refurbishments and bespoke design projects across Newcastle, Northumberland and North Tyneside. His design energy and collaborative style are a perfect fit for Acre Design, and we look forward to sharing more of his work on our Portfolio page soon.

Interested in working with Robbie and the Acre Design team on your next project? Book a complimentary Ask the Expert call today and let’s explore what’s possible for your home.

When planning a home extension, self-build or renovation, rainwater systems may not be the first thing you think about — but they play a crucial role in both protecting your property and completing its architectural look. That’s why we’ve partnered with Yeoman Rainguard, who have over 30 years’ experience designing and supplying quality guttering and downpipes, to share their expert advice.

Why rainwater systems matter

A well-designed system does more than divert rain — it protects your home from water damage, damp and structural issues, while also contributing to its overall appearance. Choosing the right material and profile ensures durability, efficiency and harmony with the style of your property, whether you live in a modern home in Newcastle, a period property in Northumberland, or a listed building in North Tyneside.

Key considerations

When selecting a rainwater system, think beyond looks:

Location – heritage or conservation areas may require traditional materials like cast iron.
Climate – in areas of heavy rain or snow, deep-flow gutters or reinforced systems are essential.
Durability – materials like copper and cast iron can last decades with minimal maintenance.
Sustainability – recyclable metals such as aluminium and copper combine strength with eco-credentials.

Popular options

Aluminium – lightweight, durable and available in a wide range of profiles and colours. Excellent for contemporary extensions with long service life.
Cast Iron – traditional, robust and ideal for heritage properties. With care, it can last 40+ years.
Copper – develops a natural patina over time, offering beauty, resilience and exceptional longevity — particularly suited to timber-framed or coastal homes.

Our advice

Rainwater systems should be considered as early as possible in your project so they can be seamlessly integrated into the design. At Acre Design, we work closely with trusted suppliers like Yeoman Rainguard to specify solutions that balance durability, sustainability and aesthetics.

If you’re planning a home extension or refurbishment in Newcastle, Northumberland or North Tyneside, we’d be delighted to advise on every aspect of your project — from the big picture design down to the finer details.

Book a complimentary Ask the Expert call to discuss your ideas and let us guide you through the process.

At Acre Design, our team doesn’t just design beautiful extensions and refurbishments — many of us are living the process ourselves. Senior Designer Matthew is a perfect example. Alongside his partner, he has been carefully restoring and renovating their 1910 Edwardian semi-detached home in Newcastle. The project has been a true labour of love, and Matthew’s first-hand experience gives him unique insight into what our clients go through.

Living the process

Unlike client projects, where he sees the design stages at intervals, Matthew has lived through every dusty, noisy, frustrating — and rewarding — stage of his own renovation. “When it’s your own home, you experience each change in real time, and every decision feels magnified,” he explains.

The proudest moment so far? Completing the living room. “The transformation was incredible — it’s unrecognisable from when we got the keys, but still holds on to its Edwardian character.”

Lessons learned

One of the biggest lessons has been patience. Renovation often means taking a step backwards before you can move forward. Jobs that felt daunting at the start have since become second nature. “I’d approach things with more confidence if I did it again,” says Matthew, “but the process has given me real empathy for clients making decisions under pressure.”

Living in the property throughout the work has also been a revelation. “It hasn’t been as difficult as I feared. It makes you appreciate the basics, and you learn to be resourceful. Deadlines matter less than enjoying the journey.”

Preserving character

For Matthew, protecting the home’s original charm has been central. The Edwardian fireplace — an ornate surround nearly 8ft high — remains the standout feature, alongside the stained glass windows that attract endless compliments. Choosing high-quality paints such as Farrow & Ball and Craig & Rose has also helped retain authenticity while adding modern durability.

Why it matters for clients

This personal journey has made Matthew a stronger designer. Experiencing the reality of trade coordination, budgets, and tough choices has sharpened his problem-solving skills and deepened his understanding of how clients feel during a build. It has also reinforced the importance of balancing practicality with beauty — and preserving the character of period properties while adapting them for modern living.

Looking ahead

Matthew still has several rooms to complete — with a new kitchen nearly finished and even a “man cave” in the pipeline — but his enthusiasm for the process remains strong. “Reminding myself of the end goal keeps me motivated. Every stage brings us closer to creating a home we love.”

Thinking about renovating or extending your own Edwardian or period home in Newcastle, Northumberland or the wider North East?
Book a complimentary Ask the Expert call with Acre Design and benefit from a team that not only designs extensions but also lives the process themselves.

At Acre Design, we know that great design is about more than how a space looks — it’s also about how it makes you feel. That’s why we asked Newcastle-based interior designer Sibylle Clerey of SC Interiors to share her expert advice on boosting well-being at home through thoughtful interior choices.

Biophilic Design: Bringing nature indoors

Biophilic design is all about strengthening our natural connection to the outdoors. Research shows that integrating natural elements can reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance mood. Many of the world’s leading companies, from Apple to Amazon, are investing in biophilic design to support productivity and well-being — and the same principles can transform your home.

Practical steps include:

Maximise natural light by rethinking window treatments or repositioning furniture.
Introduce plants with air-purifying qualities — such as bamboo palms, rubber plants or spider plants.
Use natural materials like wood, rattan, stone or bamboo in finishes and furnishings.
Incorporate calming shapes and colours inspired by nature — curved furniture, organic patterns, earthy tones.
Add natural sounds such as flowing water for a serene atmosphere.

Minimising VOCs: Healthier living spaces

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are harmful chemicals found in paints, finishes, and household products that can impact respiratory health. Reducing exposure makes your home not only more comfortable but safer, particularly for those with asthma or sensitivities.

Sibylle’s advice includes:

Choose low-VOC paints and varnishes.
Air out new materials in a ventilated space before bringing them inside.
Store solvents and cleaners away from living areas.
Reduce use of aerosols, incense and synthetic fragrances.
Ventilate regularly or invest in an air purifier.

Designing for wellness

From preserving heritage details in a Jesmond townhouse to creating calm, light-filled extensions in Northumberland, Acre Design’s approach is always guided by how a home will feel to live in. By incorporating principles like biophilia and reducing VOC exposure, you can create interiors that support both your lifestyle and your long-term health.

Thinking about redesigning or extending your home in Newcastle, Northumberland or North Tyneside? Book a complimentary Ask the Expert call with Acre Design to explore how great design can enhance your well-being.

Taking on a renovation project is exciting, but it can also be daunting. Even as professionals, our designers at Acre know first-hand the challenges that come with transforming a home. That’s why we spoke to Marc, one of our experienced team members, about his own renovation journey — and the ten key lessons he believes every homeowner should keep in mind.

1. Collaboration is everything

Working closely with your designer helps you explore ideas you might not have imagined yourself. Marc found that the best outcomes came from balancing his own instincts with different perspectives.

2. See the bigger picture

It’s easy to get lost in the dust and disruption, but visualising the finished space keeps you focused. Marc recalls how rewarding it was when his wife could finally see the vision come to life as walls came down.

3. Expect upheaval

Even small projects create dust, noise and disruption. Accept it as part of the process — and remember that once it’s finished, the discomfort quickly fades into the background.

4. Improvement is addictive

Once you renovate one area, you’ll start spotting opportunities elsewhere. Marc’s next goal? Adding a dormer to his loft conversion to maximise light and space.

5. Imagine living in the space

Think beyond floorplans. Where will the sockets go? How will you use storage? Marc installed plinth radiators to free up kitchen wall space and even hid a coffee machine in a cupboard — details that make everyday life smoother.

6. Enjoy the journey

Yes, there are challenges, but watching your home evolve is incredibly rewarding. Treat the process as part of the experience, not just the end goal.

7. Put in the effort

Marc and his wife painstakingly restored an exposed brick wall by hand. It was labour-intensive, but the result is a stunning feature that makes the space unique.

8. Gather inspiration

Keep a scrapbook or digital board of ideas. Marc recommends magazines like Build It and Homebuilding & Renovatingfor practical and creative inspiration.

9. Source wisely

Don’t be afraid to buy directly from trusted suppliers. Marc’s own renovation used affordable yet stylish Ikea kitchens, Wickes glazed folding doors, and flexible track lighting to highlight features.

10. Protect your calm

Keep at least one room untouched during the renovation so you always have a retreat. Having a “normal” space to close the door on the chaos makes the process much less stressful.

A designer’s perspective

Marc’s personal experience has given him a deeper appreciation for the client journey. It reinforced the importance of foresight, detail, and empathy — qualities he brings to every Acre project.

Planning your own renovation in Newcastle, Northumberland or North Tyneside? Let our team share their expertise and guide you through the process with clarity, creativity and care.