About

High quality design without breaking the bank

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A call to fundamentally reshape the conventional design model by using modern technology to prioritize value and quality.

Operating throughout Ireland, Make a Home was launched to bridge the gap between high- quality architectural services and family budgets. Whether you are looking to completely renovate or extend your home, or you just want to build a dormer window, we deliver professionalism at a price that works.

In contrast to unregistered draughtsmen or builders, our team of experienced RIAI-registered architects offers you unparalleled expertise and personalised attention from start to finish. Using cutting-edge technologies such as lidar scanning and 3D building information modelling, we have streamlined our processes to eliminate the unnecessary overheads of the traditional architect’s process.

This, coupled with our extensive experience in high-end design, allows us to deliver services far beyond our client’s expectations. From an extension or attic conversion, we provide exceptional design services at a low price.

Why use an architect

The title “Architect” holds legal protection as its use is governed by the Royal Institute of Architects Ireland (RIAI), ensuring rigorous training and expertise in design and construction. Architects undergo a minimum of seven years training, culminating in a unique proficiency in design and construction. Beyond drawing up plans, they guide projects from inception to completion, maximising value, creativity, and professionalism. Fully regulated, they uphold strict standards of conduct, ensuring that each client’s interests are always the priority.

Unregulated alternatives lack accountability and may compromise the integrity of a project for their own gain; for instance, offering plan drawing services that prioritise their preferences as opposed to the needs of their clients. Similarly, independent plan drawing services may lack transparency, concealing hidden fees and affiliations. Choosing Make a Home means you are gaining the expertise, integrity, and dependability of professional architects— while our fixed fees and inclusive costs make us an affordable choice for projects of any size.

Our design philosophy

At Make a Home, we believe that successful design isn’t just about creating aesthetically pleasing homes, it’s about crafting a home that’s tailored to your personality and the needs of your family. We prioritize practicality and functionality alongside beauty, collaborating closely with you from the outset to ensure your family’s needs are met, then exceeded.

Our team of architects approaches each project with meticulous attention to detail, balancing creativity with practicality to deliver spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful. Whether you’re looking to extend your home as your family grows or you want a fresh environment to call your own, we have the expertise and experience needed to turn your dream home into a reality.

Our Process

Take a moment to learn about our straight forward and efficient process ensuring you understand how we work and how we’re able to give you the best service at a reasonable rate. 

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Types of Development

From exclusive architectural and interior design to house surveys and planning permissions, Make a Home has the answer you’re looking for. Choose your type of development below.

Extensions

Attic Conversions

House Renovation

New builds

Garden Projects

Testimonials

When it comes to the quality and affordability of our services, you don’t need to take our word
for it. Read what our customers have to say.

Frequently asked questions

From exclusive architectural and interior design to house surveys and planning permissions, Make a Home has the answer you’re looking for.

Are you able to manage the planning phase and help with the construction process as well?
Are you able to manage the planning phase and help with the construction process as well?

Absolutely! We’re here to support you every step of the way through the planning process. Our complete service packages cover everything from creating all required planning drawings to submitting them to the council for you.

Once planning is approved, we can connect you with trusted local contractors to bring your vision to life.

The detailed report we provide with your plans will clearly outline the skilled professionals necessary to carry your project through to successful completion.

Can an estate agent estimate the value of my property after an extension?
Can an estate agent estimate the value of my property after an extension?

Yes, many estate agents can provide a basic valuation of your property after an extension, using sales data from similar properties in your area.

However, they are not equipped to provide detailed cost estimates for your project, assess future development possibilities, or predict the success of obtaining planning permission.

Can I build an extension to my home without having to seek planning permission?
Can I build an extension to my home without having to seek planning permission?

Broadly speaking, the construction of an extension or conservatory does not require planning permission when it is to the rear of the house; however, any query from the public of this nature should be dealt with subject to the provisions of Planning Policy and Development Regulations.

The following should be seen only as general guidelines:

  • Terraced and Semi-Detached Houses: If the house has not been previously extended, the floor area of the proposed extension cannot exceed 40 sq metres.  This exemption also allows for extensions above ground-floor level (if the house is semi-detached or terraced, the area of the above ground extension cannot exceed 12 sq. m). This means, for a typical semi-detached house, one could have a ground floor extension of 28sq. m & 2nd floor extension of 12sq m without applying for planning permission.  Any above ground floor extension shall be a distance of not less than 2 metres from any party boundary.
  • Detached Houses: As with terraced and Semi-detached above, the overall area of extension must be less than 40 sq. metres. This exemption also allows for extensions above ground floor level, the are above ground floor are cannot exceed 20 sq. m. One could therefore have a ground floor extension of 20 sq. m., and a 2nd floor of 20 sq. m.  Any above ground floor extension shall be a distance of not less than 2 metres from any party boundary.
  • Both Cases: If the proposed extension is in addition to an existing extension (post 01-10-1964), overall areas of all extensions must not be more than 40 sq. m. – including extensions which needed permission, e.g. to side of house.
Can I request additional renders or videos of my project?
Can I request additional renders or videos of my project?

Yes. Each additional high quality render is €100 + VAT. We can also produce rendered walkthroughs of your home for a fee dependent on the length of video required.

Can I trust Make A Home and are you qualified?
Can I trust Make A Home and are you qualified?

At Make A Home, we combine the convenience of online services with the personal touch of direct communication. From your first inquiry, you’ll be interacting with our real, friendly team. If you prefer an in-person approach, we’re happy to provide onsite surveys and consultations.

Our team boasts qualified, experienced professionals, including ARB and RIAI registered architects, architectural technologists, and BIM specialists, ensuring your project is expertly handled. With a solid history of residential extensions and renovations throughout the UK and Ireland, we’re proud of our track record of satisfied homeowners.

Can you complete drawings for new builds?
Can you complete drawings for new builds?

Yes! We’re ready to help with designs and drawings for new builds—just book a free consultation with our team to begin.

Connect with our team

Think we can help? Whether you have questions, need support, or want to discuss your ideas, we’re here to listen and help

Black Architects & Developments Ltd
Black Architects & Developments Ltd

Connect with our team

Think we can help? Whether you have questions, need support, or want to discuss your ideas, we’re here to listen and help

Black Architects & Developments Ltd