Suffolk &amp; Cambs


<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1200" height="662" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/10/MSAP_Cocoon_Jubilee-Ter_DSCF2704-Pano-Edit-Edit-copy.jpeg" alt="home office extension with walled garden in background " class="wp-image-42423" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/10/MSAP_Cocoon_Jubilee-Ter_DSCF2704-Pano-Edit-Edit-copy.jpeg 1200w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/10/MSAP_Cocoon_Jubilee-Ter_DSCF2704-Pano-Edit-Edit-copy-800x441.jpeg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/10/MSAP_Cocoon_Jubilee-Ter_DSCF2704-Pano-Edit-Edit-copy-1000x552.jpeg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/10/MSAP_Cocoon_Jubilee-Ter_DSCF2704-Pano-Edit-Edit-copy-400x221.jpeg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></figure>



<p>Need more space in your house but not willing to move and pay a huge amount of stamp duty, solicitors&#8217; fees and general moving costs? Then, along with the record number of other homeowners in the UK, you&#8217;re probably considering extending your home to create space for working or your growing family. Before the first wall comes down though, you&#8217;ll want to seriously think about involving an interior designer in the process. We spoke to talented <a href="https://katiemalik.co.uk">Cambridgeshire-based interior designer Katie Malik</a>, who has designed some seriously stylish extensions, about why it&#8217;ll be the best decision you&#8217;ll ever make when it comes to extending your home.  </p>



<p><em>Here are 6 reasons to work with an interior designer when extending your house&#8230;</em></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-they-ll-help-you-nail-the-design-and-aesthetics-from-the-off">1. They&#8217;ll help you nail the design and aesthetics from the off</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/10/Katie-Malik-Studio-Kitchen-1-1000x667.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-42429" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/10/Katie-Malik-Studio-Kitchen-1-1000x667.jpeg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/10/Katie-Malik-Studio-Kitchen-1-800x534.jpeg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/10/Katie-Malik-Studio-Kitchen-1-400x267.jpeg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/10/Katie-Malik-Studio-Kitchen-1.jpeg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Getting off to a strong start with your extension can make all the difference to your budget, stress and the finished look. The one way to guarantee your project gets going as smoothy as possible is to have an interior designer in your corner, who can make sure everything is perfectly co-ordinated and correct before any major work begins. </p>



<p>&#8220;Interior designers bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table,&#8221; says Katie. &#8220;Their trained eye for design and aesthetics ensures that every element in your home is cohesive and harmonious. From selecting the perfect colour palette to choosing the right textures and materials, an interior designer knows how to create a space that is both beautiful and functional. They understand the latest trends but most importantly can incorporate timeless design principles to ensure your home remains stylish for years to come.&#8221; </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-they-can-take-your-ideas-and-make-them-even-better">2. They can take your ideas and make them even better</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2023/08/Katie-interior-design-process.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-34861" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2023/08/Katie-interior-design-process.jpg 1080w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2023/08/Katie-interior-design-process-800x800.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2023/08/Katie-interior-design-process-1000x1000.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2023/08/Katie-interior-design-process-400x400.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2023/08/Katie-interior-design-process-525x525.jpg 525w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2023/08/Katie-interior-design-process-500x500.jpg 500w" sizes="(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" /></figure>



<p>Armed with a Pinterest page and some saved posts on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/katie_malik_design_studio">Instagram</a> we all like to think we&#8217;re the next Kelly Hoppen, and while many of our ideas might be great, they might not be the most practical for our particular space or extension. That&#8217;s when an interior designer is essential – taking your dreams and turning them into the reality that works and still looks just how you imagined. It&#8217;s a real skill and 100% worth paying for.</p>



<p>&#8220;Every home is unique, and so are the needs and preferences of its inhabitants,&#8221; says Katie. &#8220;An interior designer listens to your ideas and transforms them into reality. They bring creative solutions that you might not have considered, ensuring that your home is not only stunning but also tailored to your specific requirements. Whether you desire a modern minimalist look or a classic elegant feel, an interior designer can curate a space that mirrors your personality and taste.&#8221;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-they-have-a-little-black-book-of-the-best-suppliers-and-contractors">3. They have a Little Black Book of the best suppliers and contractors </h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="668" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2023/05/katie-malik-8.jpg" alt="modern kitchen design" class="wp-image-32998" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2023/05/katie-malik-8.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2023/05/katie-malik-8-800x534.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2023/05/katie-malik-8-400x267.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2023/05/katie-malik-8-786x525.jpg 786w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Unless you work in the construction industry already, chances are you won&#8217;t have a clue which suppliers and contractors to use for your extension and will just have to rely on online reviews or word of mouth. Employing an interior designer means you&#8217;ll have access to their extensive network of tried-and-tested suppliers – an extension dream team who you can fully trust to deliver your perfect project. </p>



<p>&#8220;An interior designer can also recommend and source high-quality materials and furnishings that might not be accessible to the general public,&#8221; says Katie. &#8220;This ensures that every component of your renovation meets the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship. Moreover, our connections with reputable subcontractors guarantee that your project is executed more efficiently.&#8221;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-4-they-ll-focus-on-the-small-details-to-create-a-look-and-functionality-you-ll-love">4. They&#8217;ll focus on the small details to create a look and functionality you&#8217;ll love</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1670" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/10/katie-malik-design-details.jpg" alt="small design details in a kitchen extension " class="wp-image-42430" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/10/katie-malik-design-details.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/10/katie-malik-design-details-719x800.jpg 719w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/10/katie-malik-design-details-898x1000.jpg 898w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/10/katie-malik-design-details-359x400.jpg 359w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/10/katie-malik-design-details-1380x1536.jpg 1380w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>Imagine this: you&#8217;ve spend tens of thousands of pounds and months of stress on your extension and now it&#8217;s finished. Instead of feeling elated every time you walk into your new room, you feel annoyed and irritated because you wish you&#8217;d done some details differently or some decisions you made don&#8217;t make life easier but are super awkward. Now imagine you&#8217;d employed an interior designer whose expert ideas mean your face cracks into a huge smile every time you set foot in your extension and you love the look of the room and its amazing time-saving details almost as much as your children/husband/dog&#8230; </p>



<p>&#8220;High attention to detail is crucial in achieving a flawless renovation,&#8221; says Katie Malik. &#8220;Interior designers meticulously plan and oversee every aspect of the project, from initial concept to final installation. They ensure that every detail, no matter how small, is perfect. This includes the placement of furniture, the selection of accessories, and the alignment of architectural features. Their commitment to perfection ensures that your renovated home exceeds your expectations.&#8221;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-5-they-could-save-you-money-in-the-long-run">5. They could save you money in the long run </h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="668" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/05/katie-malik-dining-area.jpg" alt="Katie Malik interior design modern dining area" class="wp-image-40013" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/05/katie-malik-dining-area.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/05/katie-malik-dining-area-800x534.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/05/katie-malik-dining-area-400x267.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Making a mistake when you&#8217;re doing an extension can be hugely costly &#8211; both in terms of materials and labour time needed to fix the problem or your change of heart. Having an interior designer on side from the initial concept means these mistakes won&#8217;t be made as they&#8217;ll pick up any problems well before the first brick is laid. Another way interior designers can save you money is when it comes to selling your house. A luxury, professionally designed extension can add a lot to the sale value of your house. </p>



<p>&#8220;A well-executed renovation not only enhances your living experience but also significantly increases the value of your property,&#8221; says Katie. &#8220;Interior designers understand what features and designs are in demand in the any market; whether it’s Cambridge or London or even outside of the UK for holiday homes. They can make strategic design choices that boost your home’s appeal and market value, ensuring a lucrative return on investment should you decide to sell.&#8221;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-6-they-ll-save-you-a-huge-amount-of-stress-and-time">6. They&#8217;ll save you a huge amount of stress and time </h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="801" height="1200" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/10/DSC_2641-copy.jpeg" alt="house extension office and library " class="wp-image-42432" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/10/DSC_2641-copy.jpeg 801w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/10/DSC_2641-copy-534x800.jpeg 534w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/10/DSC_2641-copy-668x1000.jpeg 668w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/10/DSC_2641-copy-267x400.jpeg 267w" sizes="(max-width: 801px) 100vw, 801px" /></figure>



<p>There are few things in life that are more stressful than trying to live in a house during a renovation project. So instead of trying to project manage things yourself while holding down a full time job/ having a social life/ raising a family you&#8217;ll want to hand over the reins to someone who knows what they&#8217;re doing in their sleep. </p>



<p>&#8220;Renovations can be complex and time-consuming,&#8221; says Katie. &#8220;An interior designer streamlines the process, ensuring that the project stays on schedule and within budget. They coordinate with various tradespeople, manage timelines, and troubleshoot any issues that arise.&#8221;</p>



<p><em>Find out more about how Katie Malik Design Studio can help with your next renovation project <a href="https://katiemalik.co.uk">here</a>. </em></p>


Planning an extension? 6 reasons involving an interior designer could be a game-changer

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