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.

WINNER of the Women in Property & Construction Award 2025

What a way to end 2025! Last week, I was incredibly honoured (and a little overwhelmed) to receive the Women in Property & Construction Award 2025 at the International Women’s Business Awards . KLB Homes began with a simple love of helping people create homes that truly work for their lives. To see that ethos recognised on an international stage feels very special, and honestly quite humbling. I’m so grateful to my wonderful clients, supporters, collaborators and everyone wh

Kristina

Dec 22, 20251 min read

Winner of the Women in Property & Construction Award 2025

What quality or finish should I aim for in my home extension?

It’s a question I hear so often: “Do we go for the simple option, or do we spend more on higher-quality finishes? Will it really make a difference?” And the truth is, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on your budget, your priorities, and what you want your home to feel like at the end of it all. But I do know this. The choices you make around quality and finish aren’t just about looks, they shape how you use and enjoy your home every single day. When we talk

Kristina

Aug 5, 20252 min read

What quality or finish should I aim for in my home extension?

Should we extend or move? The big dilemma...

Weighing up the pros and cons of moving versus extending your current home.

Kristina

Jun 9, 20252 min read

10 Questions to ask before planning your extension in Surrey

A helpful checklist of ten key questions to consider before planning a home extension in Surrey - covering budget, layout, permissions and lifestyle.

Kristina

Apr 8, 20253 min read

10 Questions to ask before planning your extension in Surrey

Can I build an extension without planning permission?

In many cases, yes! But there are some important rules (and a few exceptions) to be aware of.

Kristina

Feb 12, 20252 min read

Can I build an extension without planning permission?

Family-friendly garden ideas that grow with your home and your children...

Gardens should feel like a natural extension of your home and family life, not an afterthought. The best gardens aren’t just beautiful; they’re lived-in, loved, and ever-evolving.

Kristina

Jul 10, 20232 min read

How long does planning permission actually take?

Planning permission typically takes 8–13 weeks, but you can help keep things on schedule with good drawings, timely neighbour chat, and clear communication.

Kristina

Jun 8, 20232 min read

How long does planning permission actually take?

Creating spaces that work for multi-generational living

Multi-generational living isn’t about squeezing more people in, it’s about designing spaces that support more ways of living. With some careful thinking and a bit of creative planning, your home really can work beautifully for everyone, whether they’re eight or eighty.

Kristina

May 8, 20232 min read

Creating homes that support real lives...

Building a home is about so much more than bricks, beams and square footage. It’s about creating a space that actually works for your life. The kind of home where your mornings run a little smoother, where there’s space to breathe, connect, recharge. Where the design doesn’t just look good on paper but quietly supports the 'rhythm' of your everyday routine. That’s the real magic, and honestly, it’s the bit I love most about what we do. When we sit down with clients, we’re no

Kristina

Apr 10, 20232 min read