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BEYOND THE BUILD
Thoughts on homes, design and the realities of renovating.
Creating a home goes far beyond bricks, beams and square footage. After two decades working in property and residential design, and plenty of experience of family life and renovation myself, I’ve learned that some of the most important decisions aren’t always the most obvious ones.
Beyond the Build is where I share some of that experience: practical advice, design insight and personal reflections on creating homes that work not just on paper, but for everyday life. From planning and extensions to budgets, layouts and the realities of living through a renovation, it’s here to help you ask better questions, make more informed decisions and think a little differently about what your home could become.
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A rather special win for KLB Homes
A rather special moment for KLB Homes. Our Westhumble project has received a Five-Star UK Property Award for Best Architecture Single Residence — Surrey, 2026–2027. A lovely recognition of the thought, care and collaboration behind the project.
Kristina
Oct 262 min read
Everyone asks for more glass, but is more glazing always better?
“Lots of glass!” is probably one of the most common things I hear when clients describe their dream extension. Big doors onto the garden, roof lights overhead, huge windows and as much natural light as we can possibly squeeze in, and I completely understand why. Light can absolutely transform a home. But does that mean more glass is always better? Not necessarily. A beautifully light-filled room isn't really about how much glazing you have. It’s about putting the light in the
Kristina
Aug 22 min read
Thinking about extending next year? You might want to start now...
Thinking about extending your home next year? The design and planning stages often take longer than expected. Here's why giving yourself time to explore ideas, understand the process and make considered decisions can make all the difference.
Kristina
Jul 82 min read
When open-plan stops working: designing a home that grows with your family.
Open-plan living can be wonderful, but what works for a young family doesn't always work forever. A look at how thoughtful layouts, quieter spaces and better connections between rooms can help a home adapt as family life changes.
Kristina
May 42 min read
Planning an extension? Don't forget the costs before the building even starts
The cost of an extension starts long before the builders arrive. From surveys and planning applications to structural calculations and Building Regulations, here are some of the expenses worth allowing for from the outset.
Kristina
Mar 232 min read
Do you actually need an extension?
Sometimes the answer to needing more space isn't an extension at all. A better layout, more useful storage or a rethink of the rooms you already have could make all the difference.
Kristina
Feb 122 min read
Reflections: What I’ve learned from helping families extend
After years of helping families rethink and extend their homes, a few lessons come up time and again. A reflection on what really matters when creating a home for family life - now and for the years ahead.
Kristina
Jan 124 min read
WINNER of the Women in Property & Construction Award 2025
A very special end to 2025. KLB Homes received the Women in Property & Construction Award, and I wanted to share a little of what that recognition means to me.
Kristina
Dec 22, 20251 min read
Honoured for Excellence in Authentic Family Living Design
A lovely moment for KLB Homes, recognised for residential architectural design and our approach to creating practical, thoughtful homes around everyday family life.
Kristina
Nov 10, 20251 min read
Why I created The Renovation Academy
I've wanted to create something for homeowners planning their own renovations for years. Here's why I finally put together The Renovation Academy, and what I hope it will help people do.
Kristina
Oct 19, 20252 min read
Autumn: the season to reset
There's something about autumn that makes me look at home a little differently. From the spaces we naturally retreat to, to the small changes that make everyday life feel easier.
Kristina
Sep 7, 20253 min read
What quality or finish should I aim for in my home extension?
Where should you spend, and where can you save? Choosing finishes for an extension is about balancing your budget with quality, longevity and how you want your home to feel.
Kristina
Aug 4, 20252 min read
Can a small extension really make a big difference?
Bigger isn't always better. Sometimes an extra metre or two, combined with a thoughtful layout, can completely change the way a home works for family life.
Kristina
Jul 17, 20252 min read
Should we extend or move? The big dilemma
Love where you live but starting to outgrow your home? From the practicalities and costs to the emotional side of moving, here's what I'd consider before making the decision.
Kristina
Jun 9, 20252 min read
How to plan a home extension that adds real value
A successful extension should add more than square footage. Here’s how to balance everyday family life, good design and long-term property value when planning your project.
Kristina
May 2, 20252 min read
10 Questions to ask before planning your extension in Surrey
Thinking about extending your home? These ten questions will help you consider your budget, layout, planning requirements and family life before you start designing.
Kristina
Apr 8, 20253 min read
What kind of planning application do you actually need?
Permitted Development, householder planning or a Lawful Development Certificate? Here’s a simple guide to the main planning routes and how to work out which may apply to your project.
Kristina
Mar 3, 20252 min read
Can I build an extension without planning permission?
Not every extension needs full planning permission. Here’s a straightforward introduction to Permitted Development rights, Lawful Development Certificates and when a planning application may still be required.
Kristina
Feb 12, 20252 min read
How to design a home extension that feels like it’s always been there
The best extensions don’t feel like additions. From proportions and materials to rooflines and internal flow, thoughtful design can make new space feel like a natural part of the original home.
Kristina
Jan 17, 20252 min read
Garage conversions: Making the most of the space you already have
Before extending outwards, it’s worth looking at the space you already have. A well-designed garage conversion can create valuable extra living space without increasing your home’s footprint.
Kristina
Dec 9, 20242 min read
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