I would slightly disagree with comments above. I'm coming to the end of a renovation project that has taken 3 years from concept to reality. We initially contacted a local building contractor who put us in contact with his recommended architect. We all sat down together and worked out a design/plan and budget for our renovations. If you don't consult a contractor at the beginning you could find the beautiful architects drawings you have - and have planning permission for, are completely unaffordable! I agree at the design stage a contractor will not be able to give you detailed costs - but they can at least advise what design elements would come within your budget. Also we found good reputable builders can be booked up anything up to a year in advance - so yes if you want to start next spring you need to get started with plans/budgets etc. As for moving out - that would depend on the existing and new layout of your house - and if the building work can be done in stages minimising disruption to your living accommodation. With our project we were left with no choice really but to move out. For us it's made for a much less stressful process and probably a considerably quicker build time. Most of all good luck with your project. I've enjoyed our ours so try to enjoy the process!

If only was that easy. I am waiting for Building regs man to get back to me for meeting. Every option in the past been discussed via my builder whom I no personally . Unless Somethings been missed we have already put to him about external fire escape stairs, the fact that new back bedroom and loft will all have new windows that a person can get out of (sure I asked about fire escape ladder which was met with a "No not sufficient" ). Its a cottage so ceilings low hence height to evacuate from a 2nd or 3rd floor in event fire would not take long. I no its down to me to put all options to buildings regs he isnt giving anywhere here and obviously its not his job to come up with solutions.Perhaps when he next comes round now so much has been done and he can see for himself windows are escape route. For now its looking like he wont sign loft off as an official 3rd bedroom. If I have to accept that , so long as I got firedoors on all floors so be it. In long run I would obviously like it signed off. Alternatively not now as monies tight but ny architect suggested months back that I possibly get a private building regs inspector who may be a bit more giving on alternatives, it would mean though paying a 2nd time gor building regs.

This article will help. https://www.houzz.ie/magazine/key-dimensions-to-know-for-the-perfect-bathroom-layout-stsetivw-vs~77167159

Hey Jo, Liam here from Refresh Renovations South West London. Firstly, congrats on securing a new property and wish you a smooth sailing move-in process (though we all know its rarely the case). I've seen your post and that immediately sent me back to our projects directory to reach for a project of striking similarity. I have shared snippets of the existing and proposed design for the aforementioned project for inspiration of what one of your options could entail, especially if this is your long-term or 'forever' home. As Isla and Jonathan have advised, it would all depend on the long-term plans, the must haves at this property and the specifications favoured. Your project brief will dictate these requirements in order of priority and guide the designs & specifications which would serve as the cost drivers for your build. This is why it is crucial to plan holistically through an overarching strategy that revolves around your plans for this property and your lifestyle to futureproof and enable informed decision making whether by ruling out certain elements of scope or phasing the works to achieve cost certainty, mitigate risk and avoid abortive costs that could result from a piece-meal basis approach. Hope this helps!