The honest answer: it depends. Costs vary hugely with scope, condition, finish level and planning constraints. And if you’re ever watched Grand Designs, you’ll know that budgets and expectations can quickly get out of hand.
At CODA Bespoke, we find the better question is what’s driving the cost in your project? Once you understand that, you can plan with confidence and invest where it counts.
Sometimes it’s simple: update the kitchen and bathrooms, tidy the plan, lift the finishes. Other times it’s a full reset: strip back, replace services, improve the envelope, redraw how rooms connect. Bring an extension, loft or basement into the mix and costs step up.
Our work at 119 Park Road, Timperley shows how scope sets the tone. The scheme created four new-build dwellings in the grounds of a heritage building while sensitively converting the original into a six-bedroom super home. Craftsmanship, technical detailing and integration of old and new all shaped the budget (as they should) for an enduring result.
Older properties conceal surprises. Think damp, timber decay, tired wiring, compromised drainage and roof issues. These aren’t glamorous line items, but they’re essential. We recommend a contingency of 10–15% to absorb the unknowns without derailing the project.
Bespoke joinery, natural stone, specialist metalwork, heritage-grade glazing… these elevate a home and last. They also cost more than off-the-shelf alternatives. At CODA we typically prioritise quality over quick fixes and encourage clients to accept higher upfront spend (within reason, of course) for longevity, beauty and ease of living.
Better performance often sits inside walls and under floors. Hidden features like breathable insulation, airtightness measures, MVHR, triple glazing and air-source heat pumps increase the build cost but reduce running costs and carbon emissions over time. For many of our clients, this isn’t optional. It’s part of doing things properly.
Conservation Areas, listed buildings and tight urban sites need careful handling and may involve heritage consultants, surveys and specialist trades. Labour and logistics vary by region too. For example, London and the South East typically carry higher rates than much of Yorkshire or the North East.
Every project is different, but as early guide rails:
These are starting points, not promises. Two projects of equal size can diverge significantly based on ambition, detailing and context. CODA projects often sit in the middle to upper bands because the brief is usually timeless design, excellent materials and calm, durable performance.
Square-metre rates are blunt and ignore complexity. The reality is that size isn’t always the whole story. A 40m² zinc-and-glass addition with custom interiors may cost more than a 60m² brick extension finished off-the-shelf. The same goes for performance upgrades in a period home: big spend, subtle change, most of it hidden in the fabric.
So we start with purpose. What must each space do? How should it feel in the morning light? Where do coats go? How do you move through the house when friends are over? When the brief is clear, money goes where it makes a difference.
The cheapest renovation is rarely the best value. A well-considered scheme feels effortless and remains that way for years. Poor planning shows up later in the form of overheating rooms, awkward circulation, cheap finishes that tire quickly and kitchens that never quite work. Good design prevents that.
Think of design as the framework that makes every pound work harder. It aligns structure, services, light and layout so the build is efficient, and the result is calm and coherent.
An architect’s role goes beyond drawings. At CODA Bespoke we:
Every project has trade-offs. Some rules of thumb:
Roofing, insulation, airtightness, windows and doors, drainage, electrics and heating are all unglamorous but important investments. Comfort, quietness and running costs depend on these.
They’re complex, used daily and expensive to revisit. Get the planning, plumbing and joinery right.
Get creative with wall colours, statement furniture and some fittings, but don’t overspend.
Custom usually comes at a cost, so try to save your most ‘creative’ ideas for scenarios where they’re genuinely useful.
Overdeveloping the plot (squeezing too much in harms planning prospects and liveability).
Skipping surveys (unknowns like ground, drainage, structure and asbestos can quickly eat into your budget).
Designing in isolation (ignoring context, neighbours and orientation rarely ends well).
Chasing area over quality (a smaller, beautifully proportioned space can feel more generous than raw square metres).
Under-detailing (vague drawings invite vague prices and costly site decisions).
Time is money when it comes to renovations. Early engagement with planners and, where relevant, conservation officers keeps momentum. A clear design rationale (e.g. why these materials, how the proposal enhances the street etc) builds confidence. Heritage statements, daylight studies, tree surveys and ecology reports add cost, but they de-risk the process and protect your goals.
How much does it cost to renovate a house? It depends on scope, condition, finish, performance targets and place. The constant is this: good design and careful planning pay for themselves. They create homes that feel right, work hard and age gracefully.
At CODA Bespoke, we work with clients who want more than a cosmetic reset. They want spaces that are timeless, sustainable and personal. Homes that make everyday life easier and more beautiful. If that’s your ambition, send us your brief and let’s start with a conversation.
At CODA Bespoke, we believe style isn’t about labels. It’s about finding the sweet spot between your home’s existing character, your personal tastes and how you want to live in the space every day.
Here’s how we do it:
Every extension is a conversation between the old and the new. The first step is to look closely at the building you’re starting with:
Is it a Victorian terrace with intricate brickwork and high ceilings?
A 1930s semi with generous proportions and big bay windows?
A rural stone cottage with thick walls and deep reveals?
Each has its own proportions, materials and rhythm. And those cues are a useful starting point. A sympathetic extension might echo those lines and materials, while a contrasting one might deliberately break from them to make a contemporary statement.
In our Willow House project, located in the historic North Yorkshire farming village of Church Fenton, we used modern materials to expand the original RAF officer’s residence. Clean lines blend with the original redbrick to create contemporary, open plan living spaces perfect for family life. The result? A bold exterior that makes a statement yet is sensitive to the original building.
Most extensions fall into one of two broad approaches:
This approach respects and continues the existing architectural language. Rooflines are aligned, materials match or blend and detailing is consistent. It’s often the preferred route in Conservation Areas or with listed buildings, where heritage sensitivity is essential.
Here, the new element is unapologetically modern and sets up a dialogue between the two styles. For example, a crisp glass-and-steel structure can make a period façade feel even more special by highlighting its texture and craftsmanship.
See it in practice in the Carter Knowle Road project in Sheffield. A modern cedar-clad extension was used to expand existing kitchen of the traditional terrace house and capture as much natural light as possible.
Style isn’t just about appearances. It should respond to how you’ll use the space.
Do you need a light-filled kitchen-dining area that becomes the social hub of the home? A tucked-away office? A multifunctional family room with access to the garden? A standalone structure like the cleverly designed Cedar Pod?
Form follows function. But at CODA, we design so the two are indistinguishable. A family who loves entertaining might lean towards a bold, contemporary addition with large openings and fluid indoor-outdoor flow. Someone restoring a Georgian home might prefer a more restrained language, with proportion and symmetry taking the lead.
Your home doesn’t exist in isolation. The surrounding street, neighbourhood, and landscape all have a role in shaping what will work. Both visually and in planning terms.
The scheme at 119 Park Road is a good example of this balance. Four new-build dwellings were created in the grounds of a non-designated heritage asset, with the existing building sensitively restored into a six-bedroom super home. Past and present work together to enhance both the original building, the new additions and their surroundings.
Material choice can completely shift the style and feel of your extension. The same form built in honey-coloured larch (like the stunning Tom Lane addition in Sheffield) will feel warm and organic, while finished in zinc it will appear sleek and modern.
Sometimes, the magic lies in the mix. Pairing reclaimed brick with minimal glazing frames can make the transition from old to new feel effortless.
Planning authorities aren’t there to dictate taste, but they will have strong views on scale, massing and materials. Particularly in sensitive settings.
A well-justified design rooted in context has a far better chance of approval. That’s why we often prepare a design rationale alongside applications, showing how choices in style, proportion and materiality enhance both the home and the local area.
Early engagement with planning officers and, where relevant, conservation teams can save months later on in the project.
The most successful extensions don’t just look good. They perform well for decades to come.
We integrate sustainable principles from the start, so style and performance are inseparable. This might include:
The result is an extension that feels timeless yet quietly future-proof.
Choosing an architectural style isn’t about picking from a menu. It’s about translating your vision, your home’s character and your site’s context into a design that feels inevitable. That’s where our role comes in. We don’t impose a “house style.” Instead, we listen, analyse and create something that’s unique to the project. From the first sketches to planning permission and final detailing, we’re there to make sure every line, junction and material choice supports the bigger picture.
The “right” architectural style for your extension is the one that looks beautiful, functions effortlessly and feels like an authentic evolution of what you already love. Whether that means a faithful continuation of period detailing, a strikingly modern counterpoint or something in between, the key is to approach it with clarity, respect and imagination.
At CODA Bespoke, that’s exactly what we do. Thinking of extending your home? Let’s start with a conversation.
How to approach small-scale development with clarity, confidence and great design.
Whether that’s building a few bespoke homes on a garden plot, converting a disused barn into boutique apartments or replacing a single dwelling with something more efficient.
At CODA Bespoke, we’ve worked with a wide range of private clients and emerging developers to help them realise the full potential of their land, while ensuring the homes they create are sustainable, beautiful and sensitive to context. Whether you’re starting with a back-of-a-napkin idea or already own a site, here’s what you need to know.
There’s no official threshold, but most ‘small’ developers in the UK operate at the scale of:
This could include:
What defines a successful small developer isn’t volume. It’s attention to quality, community impact and long-term value. Here’s how to get it right:
Every site comes with opportunity. But it also comes with constraints. Think access, trees, visibility, neighbour boundaries, topography, planning history, local design character and more.
That’s why the first step in any development project is a site appraisal. At CODA Bespoke, we help clients understand:
Navigating planning can feel daunting, but with the right guidance, it becomes manageable. And often, even collaborative.
Key considerations include:
We often recommend pre-application discussions with the local authority. These can surface issues early and give planners more confidence in your intent.
It can be tempting to focus purely on cost per square metre. But when it comes to getting planning permission (and creating homes people actually want to live in) design quality is everything.
At CODA Bespoke, our approach balances:
A great example? The scheme at 119 Park Road, which consists of four new-build dwellings located in the grounds of a non-designated heritage asset. The existing building has been sensitively restored and converted into a six-bedroom super home, seamlessly blending past and present. It's the kind of project that proves small-scale development can be bold, beautiful and rooted in context.
Whether you’re building two mews houses in a backland plot in York, or redeveloping a brownfield site in Sheffield, design isn’t a luxury or even a nice-to-have. It’s a genuine tool for success.
Every development needs funding. The good news? Lenders are increasingly open to self-builders and small-scale developers, especially when there's a clear plan in place.
Typical options include:
Working with an experienced architect can significantly improve your credibility with both lenders and planners.
Becoming a small developer is deeply rewarding but it’s not without risk. Some things to watch out for:
Trying to squeeze too much onto a plot often leads to poor layouts, unhappy neighbours and planning rejections.
Skipping surveys or ignoring planning policies rarely ends well. Upfront due diligence pays off later.
Cut-and-paste solutions won’t get far, especially in sensitive settings. Respect the character of the street and its rhythm.
Building costs have risen. Include a healthy contingency and be realistic about finishes and timeframes.
We’re more than just architects. We’re collaborative design partners who can help you shape a project that is:
We’ve worked with new developers on everything from first-time garden plots to multi-home conversions, bringing clarity, experience and design excellence to each one.
Small-scale development isn’t about making a quick profit. It’s about creating places that endure. A great project will stand the test of time: architecturally, financially and socially.
Done well, small developments:
Thinking about a small development? Let’s talk.
Whether you’ve got a piece of land in mind, an underappreciated building with big potential or are just starting to explore your options, reach out today. We’d love to hear from you.
How to enhance your home while preserving its historic character.
They also bring complexity when it comes to renovation and extension. This is where the value of an architect with hands-on experience with Conservation Areas shines.
At CODA Bespoke, we have a wealth of experience working with Conservation Areas across the UK. Our goal? To help homeowners strike the right balance between thoughtful preservation and contemporary living. Whether you’re dreaming of a kitchen extension in a Victorian terrace or a full renovation of a Georgian townhouse, here’s what you need to know.
A Conservation Area is designated by a local authority as having special architectural or historic interest. There are over 11,000 Conservation Areas across the UK, from quiet rural hamlets to bustling urban streetscapes.
Familiar examples include:
Each area has its own guidelines but ultimately, the shared goal is to manage change in a way that protects the character and fabric of the neighbourhood.
Living in a Conservation Area doesn’t mean change is forbidden. But it does mean your project will face greater scrutiny. Common restrictions include:
The biggest pitfall we see is homeowners treating Conservation Areas like standard planning zones. Applying without the right preparation (or trying to push through a generic extension) often leads to delays, rejections or expensive redesigns.
Another common mistake? Believing that “matching” the old means simply replicating it. In reality, local authorities often prefer clearly legible new work. It’s why we often work with homeowners to design modern additions that don’t try to fake heritage but that sit respectfully alongside it. See it in practice in our recent Timperley project. As well as four new-build dwellings, we used sleek glass glazing to sensitively restore the existing building into a character-filled super home.
Renovating or extending in a Conservation Area isn’t just about ticking boxes. It’s about reading the nuances of place, understanding the planning language and designing with context in mind.
At CODA Bespoke, we support clients through:
Every Conservation Area is different but thoughtful design always shares the same principles:
Extensions should never overpower the original building. Whether that’s a rear addition in Stockbridge, Edinburgh or a side return in Walthamstow Village, proportions matter. We look at key sightlines, roof pitches and massing to make sure the new sits comfortably with the old.
We love to juxtapose new elements with the original structure, using clean lines and high-quality materials like charred larch, zinc or steel-framed glazing to create contrast. In the Ilkley Conservation Area, for instance, a stone cottage extension might pair traditional gritstone with a minimal, glass-framed extension.
Where old meets new, we craft deliberate junctions. Internal steps, rooflight-lit corridors or changes in ceiling height help define the shift in era without it feeling disjointed.
Period properties can be dark and compartmentalised. Extensions offer a chance to introduce light through roof glazing, floor-to-ceiling openings or carefully placed slot windows. In our Timperley project, natural light became the anchor around which both old and new spaces revolved.
You can absolutely embrace sustainability in a Conservation Area but it must be done sensitively. To achieve this we regularly work with:
In Oxford’s Jericho district, for example, which showcases the city’s Georgian and Victorian industrial era, you’ll need planning permission to install solar PV or solar thermal equipment on a roof. This doesn’t mean it can’t be done. It just means you’ll need to approach your project with care.
Generic simply doesn’t work in Conservation Areas. This means that every extension must be tailored not just to the homeowner’s needs, but to the wider fabric of place. At CODA Bespoke, we don’t offer standardised solutions. We work with homeowners across the UK to create custom, built-from-scratch designs that honour context while embracing comfort, flexibility and modern living.
Whether you’re renovating a Regency terrace in Bath, extending a barn in Helmsley or opening up a ground floor in Kensington, our approach is always the same: listen, analyse and design with intention.
Renovating or extending in a Conservation Area isn’t about restriction. It’s about responsibility. When done well, the results are spectacular. A good architect helps you walk that line between tradition and innovation, form and function, and most importantly, heritage and home.
Thinking of extending or renovating in a Conservation Area? Every home (and every Conservation Area) has its own story. Contact us today and let’s talk about how yours can evolve beautifully.
But beautiful as they are, older properties don’t always align with modern life. Spaces can feel closed off, storage limited and layouts unsuited to how we live today.
This is where a well-designed extension comes in. Not to erase the past, but to help your home evolve without losing its soul. At CODA Bespoke, we believe extending a period home is as much about sensitivity as creativity. It’s a balancing act between old and new, where every line, material and design choice matters.
What should you know before extending a character property? Here’s how to approach it, from an architect’s perspective.
Before sketching out ideas or talking square footage, take time to truly understand the roots of the property. Is it a Victorian terrace with soaring ceilings and ornate detailing? A Georgian townhouse with grand symmetry? A Yorkshire farmhouse with thick stone walls and deep-set windows?
Each period speaks its own architectural language. A good extension shouldn’t necessarily mimic it, but respect and respond to it. That might mean echoing proportions or using contrasting materials to create deliberate distinction between building eras.
In our own projects, like the award-winning Corn Yard in Sheffield featured on Grand Designs, we’ve found that the most successful extensions are the ones that feel like a natural continuation of the home’s story, rather than a loud interruption.
How did we transform a 200-year-old corn mill into a pair of stunning, low-maintenance twin homes that honour Sheffield’s industrial past while simultaneously embracing modern living? Thoughtful design choices like the use of utilitarian-inspired materials like black steel cladding, exposed copper piping and polished concrete floors help merge the old and new seamlessly.
While period homes were built for a different era, your extension should be tailored for your lifestyle. There’s no reason why contemporary concepts like open-plan living, extensive glazing, functional home offices and multi-purpose zones that flex with family life can’t be incorporated into period homes.
One of the biggest challenges in older homes is natural light. Small windows, deep footprints and solid internal walls can leave spaces feeling dim and disconnected. An extension offers the chance to change that. Carefully placed rooflights, glazed link corridors and Crittall-style doors can transform how light moves through the home.
One way to invite natural light in? Floor-to-ceiling glass walls, as seen in one of our newest projects in Sheffield, which involves the complete transformation of a Neoclassical home.
Of course, more light doesn’t always mean more glazing. We often work with layered openings (like tall slot windows, internal courtyards or borrowed views) to capture natural light. Orientation, privacy and solar gain are all considered from the outset to ensure your space isn’t just brighter, but more balanced.
There are generally two architectural routes when extending a period property:
Complementary: This involves echoing key features of the original building (e.g. materials, rooflines, fenestration) so the new addition feels visually cohesive. It's subtle, respectful and often suits conservation areas or listed properties.
Contrasting: Here, the extension is intentionally modern. Think sleek lines, bold materials and minimal detailing. When handled well, this creates a beautiful dialogue between old and new. The original home is allowed to shine and the new addition becomes a striking counterpoint. It’s a technique executed beautifully in projects like Tom Lane, which saw a 1970s bungalow updated with a striking new entrance defined by honey-hued larch cladding. Traditional? No. Striking in all the right ways? Yes.
The bottom line is there’s no one right answer. The decision depends on context, planning constraints and your own taste. At CODA Bespoke, we often blend the two, using traditional materials in modern forms, or playing with rhythm and proportion in a way that nods to the past without replicating it.
Original materials carry weight. Not just physically, but emotionally. The texture of handmade brick, the irregularity of lime plaster, the patina on old timber floors… these details matter.
When extending a period home, it’s important to honour those materials without competing. Sometimes that means sourcing reclaimed brick to match an existing elevation. Other times, it means introducing something new (like charred larch or zinc cladding) that sits alongside the original material with quiet confidence.
An insider secret? Pay close attention to the transitions. A well-designed threshold, internal step, or change in ceiling height can mark the shift between old and new without it feeling jarring.
Extensions to period homes often require careful negotiation with local authorities, especially if the building is listed or sits within a conservation area.
A skilled architect will manage this process from day one by:
In projects like 119 Park Road in Timperley, we’ve successfully transformed a non-designated heritage asset into four new-build dwellings that seamlessly balance innovation with integrity. The result? Proof that even bold designs can win approval when they respect their context.
Extending a period home isn’t just about solving today’s problems. It’s about adding to a legacy. That’s why the focus should always be on longevity, sustainability and thoughtful detailing when extending a period home. From high-performance glazing and airtight construction to breathable natural materials and passive design strategies, extensions should be designed to last, and to live beautifully.
When you work with CODA Bespoke, you’re not getting a set of plans. You’re entering a collaborative process, from first sketch to final handover. Our role is to see the big picture while sweating the small stuff, so your period home extension doesn’t just look beautiful, but feels just right.
Our ethos? Period homes deserve care. They’ve stood the test of time, often for over a century. A thoughtful extension should enhance what’s already there, not compete with it. This is why we simply don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Every home has a story. Our role is to help you write the next chapter. One that celebrates heritage, embraces modern living and leaves room to grow.
Thinking of extending your period home? Let’s start with a conversation.
While it’s tempting to dive straight in (creating Pinterest boards, ordering samples and consulting builders) the value of a skilled architect shouldn’t be underestimated. At CODA Bespoke, we believe great design starts not with a floor plan, but with a conversation. Here’s why hiring a skilled architect represents immeasurable value for your home project:
You may know how you want your space to feel. You might even have a list of must-haves. But translating these ideas into a cohesive, functional and beautiful design takes more than a mood board.
An experienced architect brings both creative insight and practical expertise to the table. We see possibilities where others see problems, like transforming awkward footprints into fluid spaces or framing views you didn’t know you had. And when it comes to finding the balance between aesthetic aspirations and everyday use? A skilled architect is an invaluable investment. Because for great architects it’s not just about designing something that looks good. It’s about designing a home that lives well.
One of the greatest benefits of working with a skilled architect is personalisation. No two families live the same way, and no two homes should feel the same.
Do you love to entertain? Welcoming a new addition to the family like our Carter Knowle Road clients, or need flexible spaces for growing children? Crave a quiet nook away from the bustle of daily life? These nuances guide everything, from orientation and flow to material choices and joinery.
A skilled architect will take the time to understand how you live, not just how your house will look. The result? A space that reflects your routines, your values and most importantly, your story.
Builders and tradespeople play a crucial role in bringing a project to life. But architects? They approach the project holistically. That means considering structure, light, materials, movement, energy use, landscape and, crucially, how all these elements interact.
We don’t think in silos. We consider the entire ecosystem of your home. That includes:
It’s this orchestration that sets exceptional homes apart. They don’t feel pieced together. They feel seamless.
Planning permission in the UK can be complex. Especially for listed buildings, conservation areas or self-builds on sensitive sites. A skilled architect doesn’t just draw plans. They manage the process from start to finish.
We speak the language of local authorities, understand the nuances of planning law and anticipate objections before they arise. We know when a design needs to stand firm and when to adjust to meet policy.
Our approach is always proactive, not reactive. It’s about guiding your project smoothly through the red tape so that momentum is never lost, and neither is the vision. Our award-winning 119 Park Road project in Timperley is a prime example of how with the right architect, the past and present can coexist beautifully (and of course, tick all the bureaucratic boxes).
There’s a misconception that hiring an architect is a luxury reserved for grand designs. But in truth, a skilled architect can save you money, maximise space and add long-term value to your property, often far beyond the initial design fee.
How?
In short: a good architect doesn’t just cost. They pay dividends.
A skilled architect knows the best homes are more than architectural statements. They’re spaces where function and form are so well balanced, you can’t tell where one ends and the other begins.
That’s where architectural training and experience come in. We’re constantly navigating competing demands (like regulations, client desires, budget constraints and structural realities) and distilling them into simple, elegant solutions.
Need to hide a utility room? We’ll fold it into a panelling feature. Want floor-to-ceiling glass but maintain energy efficiency? We’ll specify the right glazing system. Looking for genuine wow factor? We’ll make that glass-walled wine cellar and winter Arctic snug set over a garden stream (yes, we did that) happen.
Sustainable design isn’t about ticking boxes or chasing trends. It’s about building homes that respect both the environment and the people who live in them.
From air-tight detailing to low-carbon materials and passive solar design, a skilled architect can integrate sustainability into the bones of your home. Not just as an afterthought, but as part of the architecture itself.
At CODA Bespoke, we believe that future-facing design shouldn’t feel cold or clinical. It should feel warm, lived-in and timeless. That’s why we take care to balance efficiency with atmosphere.
Perhaps the most overlooked benefit of hiring an architect is the relationship itself. When you work with a practice like CODA Bespoke, you’re not hiring a draughtsperson. You’re starting a creative collaboration.
We guide, suggest, challenge and refine. We listen just as much as we draw. And we’re there, at every step, to make sure the end result isn’t just a home that looks right, but one that feels uniquely you.
This kind of partnership builds trust, momentum and joy in the process. And that’s what makes for not just a successful project, but a truly meaningful one.
Hiring a skilled architect isn’t about adding an extra step. It’s about setting the foundation for everything else. From securing planning permission to curating light, scale, material and mood, the right architect brings clarity, creativity and cohesion to your project.
At CODA Bespoke, we design homes that respond to the way you live. Spaces that feel rooted, resonant and truly yours. Whether you’re reworking a listed property or planning a bold new build, we’ll help you unlock its full potential.
Ready to bring your vision to life? Let’s talk.
Do you preserve the existing structure and attempt to enhance both form and function? Or is a fresh start the better route? Complete freedom to design a home that aligns entirely with your vision?
At CODA Bespoke, we know every home (and every homeowner) is unique. The right approach depends on lifestyle, sustainability, cost and of course, the architectural potential of the existing property.
Here’s what to weigh up when making your decision.
Retrofitting is about updating an existing structure. The goal is to improve aesthetics, performance and efficiency while honouring its architectural roots. It’s particularly suited to period homes, where preserving character is just as important as functionality.
Here’s why retrofitting is a popular route for many homeowners:
Preserves character and craftsmanship
From Victorian terraces and Georgian townhouses to centuries-old barns with enormous potential, many British homes boast period details that simply can’t be replicated. Retrofitting allows you to retain original features like sash windows, ornate cornices, ceiling roses and exposed beams, while introducing contemporary comforts.
A more sustainable choice
Demolition generates a huge amount of waste. A retrofit retains much of a home’s embodied carbon, making it a more eco-conscious solution. Thoughtful upgrades, like improved insulation, draught-proofing and energy-efficient glazing, can transform an older home’s performance.
Fewer planning restrictions
If your property is listed or located in a conservation area, a full rebuild might not be an option. Retrofitting offers a way to modernise while working within local regulations.
Potentially more cost-effective
Structural changes can get expensive, fast. Working with an existing framework can reduce material costs and streamline approvals compared to a complete rebuild.
Best for:
Sometimes, starting from scratch is the best option. A complete rebuild removes design constraints and allows for a fully tailored home. Whether that’s a sleek, contemporary space or a modern interpretation of a traditional aesthetic (like the stunning Belgrave project in South West Sheffield) the choice is completely yours.
Complete design freedom
A rebuild gives you full control over layout, materials and architectural style. Whether you want high ceilings, an open-plan concept or integrated smart technology, nothing is dictated by an existing structure.
Superior energy performance
New builds can achieve Passivhaus standards or net-zero energy credentials from the outset. With airtight construction, advanced insulation and renewable energy integration, they surpass the efficiency of most retrofitted homes.
Lower maintenance costs
With entirely new electrics, plumbing and materials, a new home sidesteps many of the upkeep concerns associated with older properties. No damp, no outdated wiring, no costly structural surprises.
Higher resale value potential
A well-designed new home, particularly in a sought-after location, can command a higher market value and make it a strong long-term investment.
Best for:
The cost-effectiveness of each approach depends on the property’s current condition and the level of transformation required.
| Factor | Retrofitting | Rebuilding |
| Initial cost | Generally lower | Higher upfront due to demolition and materials |
| Long-term savings | Dependent on energy upgrades | Lower maintenance and better efficiency |
| Resale value | Can add value if done sensitively | Often higher, especially with a well-designed home |
| Planning Process | Easier for listed buildings & conservation areas | Stricter regulations, longer approvals |
For many homeowners, a retrofit offers a balance of cost, sustainability and architectural integrity. That said, if a property is poorly designed or structurally unsound, rebuilding might be the wiser long-term investment.
Both approaches have environmental pros and cons. Retrofitting reduces demolition waste and preserves embodied carbon, but a poorly performing older home may require such extensive upgrades that a new build, designed for generations of efficiency, becomes the greener choice.
Ultimately, the decision between retrofitting and rebuilding depends on your home’s existing condition, your aspirations and how you balance historical integrity with embracing the future.
Choose a retrofit if: You love your home’s character and want to enhance it while improving efficiency.
Choose a rebuild if: You need total design control, superior energy performance or a long-term investment that justifies the cost.
At CODA Bespoke, we help homeowners navigate this decision with a design-led approach that prioritises luxury, sustainability and longevity. Whether you’re breathing new life into a cherished home or creating something entirely new, we craft spaces that fit your lifestyle.
One trend we’ve noticed? Increasingly, projects blend both approaches. At CODA Bespoke, we don’t believe in rigid categories. Our work is driven by innovation and personalisation, not limitations. Some homes call for a sensitive retrofit with carefully considered new additions, while others benefit from a rebuild that repurposes materials and preserves meaningful architectural details.
As shown in projects like Belgrave Road, which saw the split-level home reimagined with a series of transformative extensions and architectural upgrades, the best solution isn’t always either-or. It’s the one that creates a space perfectly suited to its owners, respecting both the past and the future.
Considering a retrofit, rebuild or a fusion of both? Get in touch and let’s start designing your dream home today.
At CODA Bespoke, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Great design is deeply personal and should respond to both architecture and the way people inhabit a space. Whether a home is minimalist or grandly expressive, success lies in balance, cohesion and the smallest, most thoughtful details.
So, what makes a truly well-designed home? Beyond high ceilings and statement furniture, here’s what sets exceptional homes apart.
Moving through a home with intention.
Every home tells a story, and movement through that space is the narrative. A well-designed home like Sandygate guides you effortlessly from room to room, shaping experiences along the way.
Flow isn’t just about open-plan layouts. In fact, some of the most beautifully designed homes use considered transitions. Think hallways that reveal framed views, changes in ceiling height that create intimacy and sightlines that connect spaces without forcing them open.
A home should unfold naturally, revealing itself at the right pace. Too open, and spaces lose definition. Too segmented, and movement feels forced. A good architect can help you strike a perfect balance.
A well-designed home doesn’t just let light in. It orchestrates it.
Light transforms a home. It shapes how a space feels at different times of the day, how colours shift and how textures come to life.
Designing with light means understanding how it interacts with materials, surfaces and architectural details. It’s not just about brightness. It’s about creating mood, atmosphere and drama.
The silent markers of luxury.
You may not always notice proportions, but you feel them. A well-designed home gets them just right.
The best designs use scale with intent. It’s all about creating volume where it matters, cosiness where it’s needed and a sense of spatial equilibrium throughout.
A well-designed home isn’t just about how things look but how they feel.
Timeless interiors prioritise materials with depth, warmth and a tangible presence.
A well-designed home like the Corn Yard in Sheffield respects its materials. It doesn’t chase trends but instead celebrates finishes that will only grow more beautiful with time.
Good design isn’t just about beauty. It makes life effortless.
A well-designed home considers how people actually live.
The lesson? Practicality doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty. The best spaces make both a priority.
A home should feel anchored, whether it stands in the countryside, by the coast or in the heart of a city.
Great design respects its setting and aims to blend seamlessly into its surrounding environment, rather than impose itself.
A well-designed home isn’t just architecturally sound. It’s deeply personal.
Personalisation is about curating it with intent, not filling a space for the sake of it.
At CODA Bespoke, design is never just about trends. It’s about creating spaces that incorporate all of the above into the very fabric of the home. Ready to create a home where every detail feels right? Brief us today and let’s start designing.
From eco-friendly building materials to modern interpretations of timeless elements, this year’s trends redefine what it means to live beautifully and sustainably.
Here’s a taster of what we’re most excited about:
Net-zero homes are no longer anomalies featured on shows like Grand Designs. Sustainability has become a mainstream aspiration. Thanks to renewable technologies like discreet solar roof tiles and ground-source heat pumps, new builds in 2025 will generate as much energy as they consume. Simultaneously, solutions like triple-glazed windows and advanced insulation materials will deliver outstanding energy efficiency.
Favouring characterful building materials with low carbon footprints, like locally sourced timber and reclaimed brick, is another way we’ll see architects embrace sustainability in 2025.
Biophilic design is all about connecting to the natural world. Design techniques like maximising natural light, incorporating living plants and championing organic materials help invite Mother Nature into indoor living spaces.
You don’t need a rural property like the Yorkshire Farmhouse with expansive views of fields and woodlands to embrace biophilic design. With clever design, you can connect with nature anywhere. Yes, even in the heart of cities like London and Sheffield. Incorporating features like vertical gardens, indoor courtyards, green roofs or honey-hued cedar cladding can transform even the most urban of city dwellings into a serene retreat.
The need for adaptable living spaces continues to grow as people balance work and leisure at home. Rooms designed to serve multiple purposes promise practicality without compromising style or comfort.
Innovations like sliding walls, foldaway desks and custom joinery lead the way in flexible design. These solutions often require a custom approach, but the results speak for themselves: flexibility can virtually double your usable floor space and transform how a home works for you.
Smart homes are synonymous with modern luxury. The focus in 2025 lies in seamless integration, enhancing daily life without drawing attention to technology. Think underfloor heating controlled via an app, hidden ceiling speakers and automated lighting systems that adjust throughout the day.
Home exteriors are becoming bold yet rooted in local heritage. Architects use materials reflecting the surrounding environment, creating contemporary designs that remain contextually grounded.
For example, East Anglia homes built with flint capture the region’s historic character, while properties in the Lake District feature slate exteriors. Textured façades and asymmetrical forms can be an interesting way to balance modernity and tradition.
Homes built in 2025 will continue to nurture physical and mental well-being. Incorporating features like spa-inspired bathrooms, meditation rooms and private gyms creates spaces dedicated to relaxation and rejuvenation.
Design has a big role to play, with elements like larger windows to maximise natural light and thoughtful layouts to promote air circulation helping to transform homes into personal sanctuaries.
The tiny home movement continues to thrive, particularly in urban areas where space is limited. These compact spaces are defined by meticulous craftsmanship and clever design.
Custom-built storage solutions, multi-functional furniture and high-quality materials create an illusion of openness and luxury. Compact homes prove that even small spaces can feel expansive and elegant when designed thoughtfully.
Off-grid living is winning hearts and minds as people seek greater independence from the modern, tech-saturated world. For example, advances in renewable energy and water harvesting make it easier to build self-sufficient homes that don’t scrimp on comfort. These types of projects prove that self-reliance can be as luxurious as it is sustainable.
The use of curved and flowing forms is softening the sharp lines often seen in modernist design. In 2025 expect to see rounded windows, arched doorways and curved walls used to add warmth and movement to a space.
This trend extends to interiors with circular dining tables, crescent-shaped sofas and sculptural lighting.
Modern home design has found its sweet spot in 2025, where the beauty of local craftsmanship meets the excitement of global inspiration. In projects like Tolan House, hand-built oak stairs and walkways lend a sense of English heritage, but are beautifully juxtaposed with polished concrete floors and work tops. This thoughtful fusion of tradition and innovation helps create homes that feel deeply personal and authentically luxurious.
This year’s design palette leans into earthy tones like Pantone 17-1230 Mocha Mousse and Benjamin Moore’s Cinnamon Slate. Yes, they’re brown – but they’re anything but boring. These shades bring warmth and depth to any home and are perfect for creating interiors that feel both grounded and luxurious.
To elevate these tones, pair them with soft neutrals, like cream or taupe, and textural contrasts such as boucle, velvet or butter-soft leather. Add a touch of glamour and dimension with metallic accents like brushed brass or antique bronze.
Mass timber construction leads the architectural shift of 2025. Sustainable building no longer feels utilitarian, with prefabricated wood panels like cross-laminated timber (CLT) blending eco-consciousness and cutting-edge design. For those seeking homes with standout appeal and minimal environmental impact, this method sets a new standard.
Why is mass timber construction so progressive? It delivers sustainability, efficiency and beauty in equal measure. Timber, as a renewable resource with carbon-sequestering properties, offers a clear solution for reducing the environmental footprint of a build. Meanwhile, its clean lines and natural warmth tick the aesthetic boxes and elevate it far beyond the "green" label.
Efficiency also plays a role. Prefabricated panels accelerate on-site assembly and reduce build times, ensuring high standards remain intact.
At CODA Bespoke, we’ll absolutely be drawing inspiration from the top home build, architecture and design trends of 2025. But timeless design will always remain our priority. So, rather than chasing trends, we craft spaces that champion longevity, luxury and authenticity to the client.
To us, true luxury means living in spaces tailored to your needs. Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact us today and let’s start designing your dream home in 2025.
