https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/w/index.php?feed=atom&target=BenRidley&title=Special%3AContributions%2FBenRidley 2026-04-20T23:03:32Z From Designing Buildings MediaWiki 1.17.4 https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/User:BenRidley 2026-03-13T11:36:23Z

<p>BenRidley: </p> <hr /> <div>Ben is an architect with significant technical expertise in the design of [https://architectureforlondon.com/news/eco-home/ eco homes] and low energy buildings. He was a member of the jury for the RIBA / Grand Designs House of the Year Award 2022, and was a member of the peer review panel for the 2024 'Don't Move, Improve!' awards.<br /> <br /> At Architecture for London, Ben leads on design, [https://architectureforlondon.com/news/sustainable-retrofit-our-guide/ sustainability], practice management and strategic direction. The practice designs residential projects with natural, breathable materials that achieve the highest sustainability and comfort standards, including Passivhaus and EnerPhit. He has significant technical expertise in the design of low energy buildings, and he is also a BIID Registered [https://architectureforlondon.com/projects/interior-design/ Interior Designer.]<br /> <br /> Ben has specialist experience working with [https://architectureforlondon.com/project/heritage-projects/ heritage buildings] in London, including sensitive refurbishments and extensions of listed buildings and historic homes.<br /> <br /> Ben's own house is a low-energy refurbishment of an Edwardian property in [https://architectureforlondon.com/project/low-energy-house/ Muswell Hill]. The project aimed to be an exemplar for the sustainable refurbishment of a typical terraced house in London, with a constrained budget. Both embodied energy and energy in-use were considered in depth.<br /> <br /> Architecture for London's [https://architectureforlondon.com/projects/residential-architect-london/ residential projects] include new build architectural homes, refurbishments of heritage properties and [https://architectureforlondon.com/news/house-extension-ideas-london/ house extensions] at all scales. They can offer a complete turn-key solution with AFL Build, their [https://architectureforlondon.com/build/ design and build contractor], sustainability, interior design, joinery and garden design.<br /> <br /> They create healthy buildings with natural, breathable materials that achieve the highest sustainability and comfort standards, including [https://architectureforlondon.com/news/passivhaus-architects-london/ Passivhaus] and [https://architectureforlondon.com/news/enerphit-refurbishment-how-to-make-house-energy-efficient/ EnerPhit]. This approach creates warm, low-energy homes and workplaces that are a joy to inhabit.<br /> <br /> Many of Architecture for London's projects are for either listed buildings or period homes in [https://architectureforlondon.com/news/conservation-area-consent-london/ conservation areas]. Recent projects include heritage properties in [https://architectureforlondon.com/news/camden-architects/ Camden], [https://architectureforlondon.com/news/islington-architects/ Islington], [https://architectureforlondon.com/news/residential-architects-in-westminster/ Westminster] and [https://architectureforlondon.com/news/kensington-architects/ Kensington &amp;amp; Chelsea].</div>

BenRidley https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/How_much_does_it_cost_to_build_a_house%3F 2026-03-05T09:47:01Z

<p>BenRidley: </p> <hr /> <div>Generally, for a new build, architect-designed home in London or the South East, a minimum construction cost might be in the region of £2,500 per square metre, plus land acquisition and [https://architectureforlondon.com/news/architects-fees-in-the-uk/ professional fees]. Therefore, a typical four-bedroom detached house of 160 square metres could cost a minimum of about £400,000 to build.<br /> <br /> If higher quality finishes are required, the cost to build a house can reach £4,000+ per square metre. The addition of basements will increase the rates still, from around £6,000 per square metre for basement works.<br /> <br /> == Factors that affect construction costs ==<br /> <br /> For new build homes, the following site and design issues will have a material impact on construction costs:<br /> <br /> === Site issues ===<br /> <br /> * Constrained sites<br /> * Difficult site access<br /> * Parking permits required during construction<br /> <br /> === Design issues ===<br /> <br /> * Non standard forms of construction<br /> * Specialist foundations<br /> * Large expanses of glazing<br /> * Branded kitchens<br /> <br /> == Additional cost considerations ==<br /> <br /> === Buying Costs ===<br /> <br /> These include solicitors’ fees, survey fees and Stamp Duty Land Tax.<br /> <br /> === Finance Costs ===<br /> <br /> Finance costs will vary depending on the amount of loan required and the loan as a percentage of the total build cost. If you have a large cash sum to contribute, you will be able to take advantage of lower borrowing rates. If you require 100% borrowing for both the land and the build costs, then the number of lenders is restricted, and interest rates will be higher. 100% loans are typically released in stages when required, with only the sum needed to buy the site released initially.<br /> <br /> === Consultants Fees ===<br /> <br /> Fees for all consultants will vary depending on the size and complexity of the project. Remember to allow for an [https://architectureforlondon.com/news/architects-fees-in-the-uk/ architect], structural engineer, services consultant, approved inspector and a party wall surveyor.<br /> <br /> === Site Purchase ===<br /> <br /> This varies considerably depending on the size and location of the plot. The other key variable is its planning status. A plot with consent for a house will be more expensive than the same plot without approval. There is, of course significant risk involved in buying without planning consent, but the uplift in value can be considerable.<br /> <br /> A ‘subject to planning’ offer may be beneficial for both parties, as it helps to reduce the buyer’s risk. This also ensures that the vendor achieves a good price for the land.<br /> <br /> == Tax Considerations ==<br /> <br /> There are a number of tax benefits for new build houses:<br /> <br /> === Stamp Duty ===<br /> <br /> Buying a plot of land usually results in a stamp duty saving when compared with buying an existing home. The stamp duty will be calculated on the value of the land only. This is typically much less than the value of land with a house already on it. If the new build house is going to be a second property, then the potential savings are larger. This is due to the higher SDLT rates applied to second properties.<br /> <br /> === CIL ===<br /> <br /> Whilst Community Infrastructure Levies can be considerable in London, self-builders are usually exempt. Individuals claiming the exemption must ‘own the property and occupy it as their principal residence for a minimum of 3 years after the work is completed’.<br /> <br /> === Planning Contributions ===<br /> <br /> These vary considerably, but in London, many Local Authorities require financial contributions to help them build affordable housing elsewhere in the borough. Generally, in outer areas, these do not apply, with central zones having the highest costs.<br /> <br /> === VAT ===<br /> <br /> VAT is not payable on the construction costs of a new build house (see gov.uk for full details). For work to be zero-rated, it must qualify as a “genuinely new, self-contained house or flat”. Please note that VAT will still apply to consultants’ fees.<br /> <br /> === CGT ===<br /> <br /> Assuming that the house will be your principal private residence, generally, there is no capital gains tax to pay if you make a profit when you sell a new build house.<br /> <br /> [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Design]]</div>

BenRidley https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/How_much_does_it_cost_to_build_a_house%3F 2026-03-05T09:45:16Z

<p>BenRidley: </p> <hr /> <div>Generally, for a new build, architect-designed home in London or the South East, a minimum construction cost might be in the region of £2,500 per square metre, plus land acquisition and [https://architectureforlondon.com/news/architects-fees-in-the-uk/ professional fees]. Therefore, a typical four-bedroom detached house of 160 square metres could cost a minimum of about £400,000 to build.<br /> <br /> If higher quality finishes are required, the cost to build a house can reach £4,000+ per square metre. The addition of basements will increase the rates still, from around £6,000 per square metre for basement works.<br /> <br /> == Construction costs ==<br /> <br /> For new build homes, the following site and design issues will have a material impact on construction costs:<br /> <br /> === Site issues ===<br /> <br /> * Constrained sites<br /> * Difficult site access<br /> * Parking permits required during construction<br /> <br /> === Design issues ===<br /> <br /> * Non standard forms of construction<br /> * Specialist foundations<br /> * Large expanses of glazing<br /> * Branded kitchens<br /> <br /> == Additional cost considerations ==<br /> <br /> === Buying Costs ===<br /> <br /> These include solicitors’ fees, survey fees and Stamp Duty Land Tax.<br /> <br /> === Finance Costs ===<br /> <br /> Finance costs will vary depending on the amount of loan required and the loan as a percentage of the total build cost. If you have a large cash sum to contribute, you will be able to take advantage of lower borrowing rates. If you require 100% borrowing for both the land and the build costs, then the number of lenders is restricted, and interest rates will be higher. 100% loans are typically released in stages when required, with only the sum needed to buy the site released initially.<br /> <br /> === Consultants Fees ===<br /> <br /> Fees for all consultants will vary depending on the size and complexity of the project. Remember to allow for an [https://architectureforlondon.com/news/architects-fees-in-the-uk/ architect], structural engineer, services consultant, approved inspector and a party wall surveyor.<br /> <br /> === Site Purchase ===<br /> <br /> This varies considerably depending on the size and location of the plot. The other key variable is its planning status. A plot with consent for a house will be more expensive than the same plot without approval. There is, of course significant risk involved in buying without planning consent, but the uplift in value can be considerable.<br /> <br /> A ‘subject to planning’ offer may be beneficial for both parties, as it helps to reduce the buyer’s risk. This also ensures that the vendor achieves a good price for the land.<br /> <br /> == Tax Considerations ==<br /> <br /> There are a number of tax benefits for new build houses:<br /> <br /> === Stamp Duty ===<br /> <br /> Buying a plot of land usually results in a stamp duty saving when compared with buying an existing home. The stamp duty will be calculated on the value of the land only. This is typically much less than the value of land with a house already on it. If the new build house is going to be a second property, then the potential savings are larger. This is due to the higher SDLT rates applied to second properties.<br /> <br /> === CIL ===<br /> <br /> Whilst Community Infrastructure Levies can be considerable in London, self-builders are usually exempt. Individuals claiming the exemption must ‘own the property and occupy it as their principal residence for a minimum of 3 years after the work is completed’.<br /> <br /> === Planning Contributions ===<br /> <br /> These vary considerably, but in London, many Local Authorities require financial contributions to help them build affordable housing elsewhere in the borough. Generally, in outer areas, these do not apply, with central zones having the highest costs.<br /> <br /> === VAT ===<br /> <br /> VAT is not payable on the construction costs of a new build house (see gov.uk for full details). For work to be zero-rated, it must qualify as a “genuinely new, self-contained house or flat”. Please note that VAT will still apply to consultants’ fees.<br /> <br /> === CGT ===<br /> <br /> Assuming that the house will be your principal private residence, generally, there is no capital gains tax to pay if you make a profit when you sell a new build house.<br /> <br /> [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Design]]</div>

BenRidley https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/How_much_does_it_cost_to_build_a_house%3F 2026-03-05T09:40:46Z

<p>BenRidley: </p> <hr /> <div>Generally, for a new build, architect-designed home in London or the South East, a minimum construction cost might be in the region of £2,500 per square metre, plus land acquisition and [https://architectureforlondon.com/news/architects-fees-in-the-uk/ professional fees]. Therefore, a typical four-bedroom detached house of 160 square metres could cost a minimum of about £400,000 to build.<br /> <br /> If higher quality finishes are required, the cost to build a house can reach £4,000+ per square metre. The addition of basements will increase the rates still, from around £6,000 per square metre for basement works.<br /> <br /> == Construction costs ==<br /> <br /> For new build homes, the following site and design issues will have a material impact on construction costs:<br /> <br /> === Site issues ===<br /> <br /> * Constrained sites<br /> * Difficult site access<br /> * Parking permits required during construction<br /> <br /> === Design issues ===<br /> <br /> * Non standard forms of construction<br /> * Specialist foundations<br /> * Large expanses of glazing<br /> * Branded kitchens<br /> <br /> == Additional cost considerations ==<br /> <br /> === Buying Costs ===<br /> <br /> These include solicitors’ fees, survey fees and Stamp Duty Land Tax.<br /> <br /> === Finance Costs ===<br /> <br /> Finance costs will vary depending on the amount of loan required and the loan as a percentage of the total build cost. If you have a large cash sum to contribute, you will be able to take advantage of lower borrowing rates. If you require 100% borrowing for both the land and the build costs, then the number of lenders is restricted, and interest rates will be higher. 100% loans are typically released in stages when required, with only the sum needed to buy the site released initially.<br /> <br /> === Consultants Fees ===<br /> <br /> Fees for all consultants will vary depending on the size and complexity of the project. Remember to allow for an [https://architectureforlondon.com/news/architects-fees-in-the-uk/ architect], structural engineer, services consultant, approved inspector and a party wall surveyor.<br /> <br /> === Site Purchase ===<br /> <br /> This varies considerably depending on the size and location of the plot. The other key variable is its planning status. A plot with consent for a house will be more expensive than the same plot without approval. There is, of course significant risk involved in buying without planning consent, but the uplift in value can be considerable.<br /> <br /> A ‘subject to planning’ offer may be beneficial for both parties, as it helps to reduce the buyer’s risk. This also ensures that the vendor achieves a good price for the land.<br /> <br /> [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Design]]</div>

BenRidley https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/How_much_does_it_cost_to_build_a_house%3F 2026-03-05T09:37:25Z

<p>BenRidley: </p> <hr /> <div>Generally, for a new build, architect-designed home in London or the South East, a minimum construction cost might be in the region of £2,500 per square metre, plus land acquisition and [https://architectureforlondon.com/news/architects-fees-in-the-uk/ professional fees]. Therefore, a typical four-bedroom detached house of 160 square metres could cost a minimum of about £400,000 to build.<br /> <br /> If higher quality finishes are required, the cost to build a house can reach £4,000+ per square metre. The addition of basements will increase the rates still, from around £6,000 per square metre for basement works.<br /> <br /> == Which factors increase costs? ==<br /> <br /> For new build homes, the following site and design issues will have a material impact on costs:<br /> <br /> == Site issues ==<br /> <br /> * Constrained sites<br /> * Difficult site access<br /> * Parking permits required during construction<br /> <br /> == Design issues ==<br /> <br /> * Non standard forms of construction<br /> * Specialist foundations<br /> * Large expanses of glazing<br /> * Branded kitchens<br /> <br /> [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Design]]</div>

BenRidley https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/How_much_does_it_cost_to_build_a_house%3F 2026-03-05T09:30:28Z

<p>BenRidley: Created page with &quot;Generally, for a new build, architect-designed home in London or the South East, a minimum construction cost might be in the region of £2,500 per square metre, plus land acquisi...&quot;</p> <hr /> <div>Generally, for a new build, architect-designed home in London or the South East, a minimum construction cost might be in the region of £2,500 per square metre, plus land acquisition and [https://architectureforlondon.com/news/architects-fees-in-the-uk/ professional fees]. Therefore, a typical four-bedroom detached house of 160 square metres could cost a minimum of about £400,000 to build.<br /> <br /> If higher quality finishes are required, the cost to build a house in London can reach £4,000+ per square metre. The addition of basements will increase the rates still, from around £6,000 per square metre for basement works.<br /> <br /> == Which factors increase costs? ==<br /> <br /> Typically, for new build homes in London, several of the following factors appy:<br /> <br /> === CONSTRAINED SITES ===<br /> <br /> Are there party wall or site organisation issues? These can make the project more difficult for a [https://architectureforlondon.com/news/finding-a-local-small-builder-in-london/ builder].<br /> <br /> === DIFFICULT SITE ACCESS ===<br /> <br /> Is the site to the rear of a terrace, or accessed by a narrow track or mews street?<br /> <br /> === PARKING ===<br /> <br /> Are expensive permits required to park vehicles or skips outside?<br /> <br /> === FOUNDATIONS ===<br /> <br /> Are specialist foundations, such as mini piles, required to reach stable ground? Is underpinning required for the neighbour’s foundations?<br /> <br /> === SUPERSTRUCTURE ===<br /> <br /> Simple block and brick cavity walls are cost-effective because [https://architectureforlondon.com/build/ London builders] tend to be familiar with them, although they are slow to build. Non-standard forms of construction will often attract a premium. Cross-laminated timber, for example, has many advantages in terms of environmental impact and construction speed, yet it can still increase total costs by around 10% for a new home.<br /> <br /> === POSTCODE PRICING ===<br /> <br /> A competitive tender situation seeks to provide the best value for the client, yet contractors may still price higher in certain boroughs.<br /> <br /> === GLAZING ===<br /> <br /> Large glazed areas will cost significantly more than a standard wall construction with more typical windows.<br /> <br /> === KITCHEN SPECIFICATION ===<br /> <br /> Is a brand-name kitchen required? £50k or more for a brand-name kitchen may not be a worthwhile cost. £15k might well be sufficient for a kitchen with standard carcasses and good external finishes.<br /> <br /> [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Design]]</div>

BenRidley https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/User:BenRidley 2026-03-05T09:05:50Z

<p>BenRidley: </p> <hr /> <div>Ben is an architect with significant technical expertise in the design of low energy buildings. He was a member of the jury for the RIBA / Grand Designs House of the Year Award 2022, and was a member of the peer review panel for the 2024 'Don't Move, Improve!' awards.<br /> <br /> At Architecture for London, Ben leads on design, [https://architectureforlondon.com/news/sustainable-retrofit-our-guide/ sustainability], practice management and strategic direction. The practice designs residential projects with natural, breathable materials that achieve the highest sustainability and comfort standards, including Passivhaus and EnerPhit.<br /> <br /> Ben has specialist experience working with [https://architectureforlondon.com/project/heritage-projects/ heritage buildings] in London, including sensitive refurbishments and extensions of listed buildings and historic homes.<br /> <br /> Ben's own house is a low-energy refurbishment of an Edwardian property in [https://architectureforlondon.com/project/low-energy-house/ Muswell Hill]. The project aimed to be an exemplar for the sustainable refurbishment of a typical terraced house in London, with a constrained budget. Both embodied energy and energy in-use were considered in depth.</div>

BenRidley https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/User:BenRidley 2026-03-05T08:55:49Z

<p>BenRidley: </p> <hr /> <div>Ben is an architect has significant technical expertise in the design of low energy buildings. He was a member of the jury for the RIBA / Grand Designs House of the Year Award 2022, and was a member of the peer review panel for the 2024 'Don't Move, Improve!' awards.<br /> <br /> At [https://architectureforlondon.com Architecture for London], Ben leads on design, sustainability, practice management and strategic direction. The practice designs residential projects with natural, breathable materials that achieve the highest sustainability and comfort standards, including Passivhaus and EnerPhit.<br /> <br /> Ben's own house is a low-energy refurbishment of an Edwardian property in [https://architectureforlondon.com/project/low-energy-house/ Muswell Hill]. The project aimed to be an exemplar for the sustainable refurbishment of a typical terraced house in London, with a constrained budget. Both embodied energy and energy in-use were considered in depth.</div>

BenRidley