The proposed relaxation of planning rules in the UK may cause concern among some that a similiar relaxation in the law might happen here - but we already have quite a generous allowance in extension sizes, as introduced in 2000. The widening of the domestic extensions' bands in the 2000 Planning Act encouraged more and more people to build extensions to their homes. And that's generally a good thing. Staying put, and improving on an existing house is to be commended, rather than the rush to trade - up to something perceived to be better . . . the grass is not always greener on the other side.

A well-designed extension is all very achievable now, especially with better quality of materials. For example, there is less of a trend for mock-Victorian conservatories in white uPVC . . . a material which doesn't age well, eventually turning brown and unattractive.

Whatever the type of extension planned, it's always important to recognise building regulations, and, particularly relevant now, taking note of the EU energy ratings' guidelines which will shortly become a legal requirement when selling a home.

Solar gain is something homeowners should be looking at.

Originally, houses in Ireland were built with consideration for road front orientation, regardless of whether that was advantageous of solar gain. Things have moved away from the stuffy old front room concept of old, to a desire to build-on a glass extension to the rear, creating more interface between house and garden, and taking full advantage of sunlight.

If you look at the existing housing stock, most of the architecturally-sensitive buildings are pre-World War 1. Their architectural quality is a huge part of their appeal and value. With any extension or renovation project in a period house, it's important to respect the front characteristic features such as railings, windows, door, entrance hall and any decorative ceiling cornices.

To the rear, by contrast, there is more flexibility. If the house is listed as a protected structure, then the householder will have to go through the planning process for permission to make any changes, but in terms of creating a garden room or extension, there is usually no dif"culty, so long as any changes don't compromise the front of the house, or neighbouring homes on the same terrace or street.

There has been a huge turnaround in attitudes to authentic period features and it's encouraging that these are seen as huge selling points in a house. Also encouraging has been the creation of good quality, tax relief student accommodation which has had the knock-on effect of transforming parts of Dublin 6. Rather than "ne old red bricks being sub-divided into grotty bedsits, many of these have been restored as family homes. As we are now moving more to the European average of smaller households, there is a case to be made for well- designed sub-division of the larger period homes to accommodate two families as opposed to just one.

As for modern apartments designed for families . . . there is a lack of tradition here for that way of living. We do have some very well established local authority apartment complexes in the city centre, particularly of the Dutch design prevalent in the l930s period.

Although Dublin City Council are promoting apartments as being family-friendly, it is crucial that play areas be safe, overlooked, and in an internal courtyard with interaction with other families to create that sense of community. But we haven't been good at achieving that here. Helsinki is a good model to consider, where developments are "ve to six storeys high at most with good green areas that are well-landscaped.