The DOR journal
Straight answers for people planning a building project.
What things really cost, what the council is likely to say, and the small decisions that make a big difference. Written in plain English, the way we'd explain it over a cup of tea.
Featured
Cost guide9 min read
House extension costs in North London (2026)
What builders charge per m², the costs on top of the build, and a quick budget builder.
Read the guideCost guides
Cost guide8 min read
Loft conversion costs in North London (2026)
Dormer, hip-to-gable and mansard prices, the hidden costs and a quick budget builder.
Cost guide6 min read
Single vs double storey extension cost in London (2026)
How the cost per m² compares, what a second storey adds and how to decide.
Cost guide7 min read
How much does an architect cost for an extension in London?
Percentage, hourly and fixed fees explained, with our own fees out in the open.
Council planning
Council planning8 min read
Barnet planning permission: a homeowner's guide (2026)
What Barnet looks for, the areas that need extra care, timescales and why applications get refused.
Council planning8 min read
Camden planning permission: a homeowner's guide (2026)
Conservation areas, Article 4, basements, neighbour amenity and common reasons for refusal.
Council planning7 min read
Haringey planning permission: a homeowner's guide (2026)
Extensions and lofts on Victorian and Edwardian homes, and why applications get refused.
Design & rules
Design & rules8 min read
Permitted development in North London (2026)
What you can build without planning, the 6m Prior Approval and the four traps.
Design & rules7 min read
Extending a 1930s semi in North London
Rear and wraparound extensions, garage conversions and hip-to-gable lofts.
Design & rules7 min read
Extending a Victorian terrace in North London
Side-return, wraparound and loft options, costs, planning and old-house quirks.
Design & rules6 min read
Chalet bungalow conversions in North London
Dormers, raising the roof, rear extensions and planning versus permitted development.
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