Oriel House: Planning Approved for a Deep Retrofit in Queen’s Park
by Sean Hill on Feb 6, 2025
Some houses have history. Others have potential. Oriel House has both.
Engineering the Future: Low-Carbon Innovations in Structural Design – A Conversation with Jensen Hunt
by Sean Hill on Feb 3, 2025
Interview with James Mickelburgh and Arij Mroue of Jensen Hunt
Understanding the True Cost of Building a Home in 2025: Insights from Christopher Collett
by Sean Hill on Jan 24, 2025
As construction costs continue to rise across the UK, understanding the true cost of building a home has never been more critical - especially in high-demand regions like London and the South East. In this exclusive interview, Sean Ronnie Hill, Director of RISE Design Studio, sits dow …
Insulation: The Quiet Hero of Sustainable Living
by Sean Hill on Jan 24, 2025
In our pursuit of sustainable design, the spotlight often falls on cutting-edge technologies and bold aesthetics. But let’s pause and consider a quieter, often-overlooked element: insulation. At RISE Design Studio, we view insulation not just as a building material, but as an essentia …
How to Plan Your Eco-Retrofit: A Step-by-Step Guide
by Sean Hill on Jan 14, 2025
Transforming your home through an eco-retrofit isn’t just about saving energy - it’s about reshaping how you live. At RISE Design Studio, we believe the best homes are those that work in harmony with the environment while enhancing the day-to-day experience of their inhabitants.
Redefining the Modern Country House: The Art and Challenge of Paragraph 80
by Sean Hill on Dec 13, 2024
For those who dream of creating a one-of-a-kind home nestled in the quiet beauty of the countryside, Paragraph 80 offers a rare and exciting opportunity. This section of the UK’s National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) is not just a policy - it’s an invitation to think differently, …
Navigating the New National Planning Policy Framework: Thoughts from Sean Ronnie Hill, Director of RISE Design Studio
by Sean Hill on Dec 13, 2024
The recent reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) are causing waves in the worlds of architecture, urban planning, and development. For someone like me - someone who’s dedicated their career to creating spaces where sustainability is a cornerstone - these changes are …
Aligning a Vision with a Digital Twin Before the First Brick
by Sean Hill on Dec 12, 2024
The Lexi Cinema is more than a building. It’s the beating heart of the Kensal Rise community. When RISE Design Studio was asked to extend its legacy, we knew it wouldn’t be just another architectural project. It was about creating a space that worked for everyone - funders, consultant …
Reimagining Semi-Detached House Extensions: Rules & Guidance
by Sean Hill on Dec 6, 2024
Semi-detached houses are more than just a staple of the UK housing landscape - they’re a symbol of potential. With almost one-third of the nation’s homes falling into this category, these properties hold untapped opportunities for transformation. A shared wall on one side and an open …
A Comprehensive Guide To Wraparound Extensions
by Sean Hill on Dec 4, 2024
RISE Design Studio | Extensions Wraparound extensions are a fantastic way to add valuable living space, bring in natural light, and enhance the aesthetics of your home. In this guide, we’ll explore the key benefits, types of wraparound extensions, and essential considerations for plan …