Thinking of Building in the Countryside? Many people dream of building a one-off home in the countryside: open landscapes, quiet surroundings, and a chance to create something unique. But planning policy in England is strict. Local authorities are cautious about allowing new houses in rural areas unless there are exceptional circumstances. That’s where Paragraph [...]
The 2024 NPPF Explained (2025 Update): What Homeowners & Developers Need to Know The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) is the Government’s central planning guide. It sets out how local councils decide what can be built, where development should take place, and how to balance housing, infrastructure, and environmental priorities. The latest version, released [...]
The Power of Colour in Interior Design Colour is one of the most powerful tools in interior design. It influences how a space feels, how we behave, and even how we connect emotionally with our homes. Whether you’re creating a calming retreat, a lively family space, or a sophisticated backdrop for entertaining, the right colour [...]
Grey Belt Explained: What the New Planning Category Means for Development The December 2024 update to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) introduced a new planning category: the Grey Belt. What Is Grey Belt? Grey Belt land sits within the Green Belt but is recognised as not strongly contributing to its original purposes — [...]
London is changing fast. Rising housing demand, evolving work patterns, and a renewed focus on sustainability are reshaping how we design and use buildings. The traditional boundaries between living, working, and leisure are blurring — giving rise to a new generation of mixed-use developments. At Studio AVC, we believe these projects represent the future [...]
Cost Control in Design and Construction: How to Stay on Budget One of the biggest concerns for homeowners and developers alike is cost. A well-designed project is not just about aesthetics or performance — it’s about delivering quality within an agreed budget. Effective cost control is key to turning a vision into reality without unwelcome [...]
Balancing Biodiversity in Design In today’s built environment, one of the greatest challenges — and opportunities — is finding the right balance between nature and technology. As London grows and urban spaces become denser, the pressure on natural ecosystems increases. Yet with thoughtful design, technology and biodiversity don’t need to be in conflict; they can [...]
The materials we live with shape how we feel every day. Textures, colours, and finishes influence not only what we see but also how we breathe, move, and rest within a space. At Studio AVC, we design interiors that look beautiful and feel alive. We choose natural, sustainable finishes that bring warmth, calm, and longevity [...]
The spaces we inhabit shape far more than our routines — they influence our emotions, behaviour, and overall health. From the calmness of a sunlit room to the stress of a cluttered environment, architecture and interior design have a profound impact on our psychology and wellbeing. At Studio AVC, we believe that thoughtful design [...]
Extending your home is one of the most effective ways to add space, light, and value. In London, however, with its dense urban fabric and varied council policies, the planning process can feel daunting. Whether you’re considering a side return, loft conversion, or full-width rear addition, here are five key tips to guide you through. [...]
