STUDIO JOURNAL

Ideas and guidance for your home.

Thoughtful design starts with good questions. Explore practical notes on extending, adapting and improving your home, from the first ideas to planning and technical design.

Practical guidance from Downland Studio, for homeowners in Worthing, West Sussex and beyond.

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Daniel Hall 10/1/25 Daniel Hall 10/1/25

Do I Need a Party Wall Notice for My Extension?

Understand when party wall notices may be required for residential extensions, loft conversions and structural alterations.

Daniel Hall 9/15/25 Daniel Hall 9/15/25

Rear Extension or Loft Conversion — Which Adds More Value?

Comparing a rear extension with a loft conversion? Explore which option may add the most value and improve how your home functions.

Daniel Hall 9/5/25 Daniel Hall 9/5/25

Can I Extend My Home in a Conservation Area?

Learn how planning permission and residential design work within conservation areas across Worthing and West Sussex.

Daniel Hall 8/15/25 Daniel Hall 8/15/25

How to Make a Small House Feel Bigger Without Extending

Explore thoughtful layout ideas and residential design strategies to make smaller homes feel brighter, calmer and more spacious.

Daniel Hall 8/4/25 Daniel Hall 8/4/25

What Happens After Planning Permission Is Approved?

Understand the next stages after planning approval, including Building Regulations drawings, structural coordination and construction preparation.

Daniel Hall 7/21/25 Daniel Hall 7/21/25

Can I Extend Over or Near a Sewer?

Learn how public sewers, drainage constraints and build-over agreements can affect residential extension projects.

Daniel Hall 7/1/25 Daniel Hall 7/1/25

What Is the Best Type of Extension for My Home?

Explore different extension options including rear extensions, side returns, loft conversions and garage conversions.

Daniel Hall 6/17/25 Daniel Hall 6/17/25

How Much Value Can an Extension Add to Your Home?

Explore how extensions, loft conversions and layout improvements can add value both financially and practically to your home.

Daniel Hall 6/4/25 Daniel Hall 6/4/25

Why Good Residential Design Is About More Than Just Space

Thoughtful residential design is about more than square footage alone. Explore how layout, light and flow shape how homes feel and function.

Daniel Hall 5/7/25 Daniel Hall 5/7/25

Can I Convert My Garage Into a Home Office?

Explore how garage conversions can create practical and flexible home office spaces without major extensions.

Daniel Hall 5/1/25 Daniel Hall 5/1/25

How to Choose the Right Residential Designer for Your Project

Choosing the right residential designer is about more than drawings alone. Explore what homeowners should consider before starting a project.