Types Of House Extensions: Design And Ideas

Dive into the world of house extensions to discover a variety of transformative options, including single-storey, double-storey, side infill, and over-structure extensions! These additions offer a practical solution if you're craving more space but wish to stay rooted in your current home. Opting for an extension not only sidesteps the upheaval of moving but also empowers you to tailor new areas to meet your family's specific needs, whether it's adding a home office, an extra bedroom, or expanding your living room.

House extensions provide a spectrum of possibilities, allowing you to make the most of underutilized spaces such as side yards or to extend upwards with over-structure designs, preserving your valuable garden area. This exploration into different house extension ideas will ignite your imagination and help you envision the potential of your existing space. Whether you have a clear idea of what you want or are looking for inspiration, understanding these options can guide you toward creating a more functional and enjoyable living environment.

Types Of Extensions

Single storey extensions

Expanding your living space with a single-storey extension offers a versatile solution, ideal for enhancing your home’s functionality and aesthetics. Whether it's at the rear or the side of your property, or even encompassing both in a wraparound design, these extensions are perfect for adding that much-needed extra room. Imagine transforming your kitchen into a spacious area that seamlessly integrates dining and living spaces, or adding practical rooms like a utility room, a home office, or a convenient ground-floor guest bedroom. Moreover, the design possibilities are endless, allowing you to revamp your home’s exterior completely. Opting for bi-folding doors can merge indoor comfort with outdoor freshness, ushering cool breezes into your home on warm days, and establishing a fluid connection with your garden.

Two storey extensions

Opting for a two-storey extension is a strategic way to maximize your existing space, allowing you to expand not just outward but upward. This choice effectively doubles your living area compared to a single-storey extension, offering new possibilities for layout and design without extending beyond the original footprint of your home. Whether at the rear or the side, these extensions transform your home's functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Additionally, two-storey extensions are surprisingly budget-friendly in terms of cost per square meter when compared to single-storey extensions. They provide considerable added value and space without proportionally increasing the investment. With the revised 2020 permitted development regulations, many homeowners find that they can proceed with their extension plans without a full planning application, provided their projects align with the specified criteria. This streamlines the process significantly, making it an attractive option for those looking to enhance their living space efficiently.

Rear extensions

Rear extensions, strategically located at the back of your home, expand into your existing garden or courtyard area. These additions are perfect for homeowners looking to enhance their living space, seamlessly merging indoor comforts with outdoor ambiance.

By opting for a rear extension, you not only maximize the utility of your property but also open up new possibilities for a more spacious, open-plan living area. This allows for a natural flow between the inside of your home and the outdoors, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate an airy, integrated living environment.

Wraparound extensions

Wraparound extensions, which integrate a side return and rear extension into a sleek 'L-shape', are transforming homes by maximizing the available space at the back of the property. Typically a perfect match for Victorian terraced houses with accessible alleyways, this type of extension is also a viable option for contemporary homes with sufficient space. Such extensions are not just about adding square footage; they're about revolutionizing your living space by enhancing open plan designs, expanding your kitchen, and forging a stronger link with your outdoor garden area.

Although pursuing a wraparound extension generally necessitates submitting a full planning application, there's no reason for concern. The application process might seem daunting, but with the right professional help, it can be straightforward and stress-free. Having an expert designer to guide you through the planning stages can simplify the process significantly, increasing the likelihood of getting your plans approved on the first attempt. This expert support can demystify the complexities of planning applications and provide peace of mind.

If you're considering this type of extension, it's wise to consult with specialists who are seasoned in handling such projects. At Resi, our in-house planning team excels in managing planning applications from inception to completion. We prepare all the necessary documentation and drawings to bolster your application, enhancing your prospects for first-time approval. Engaging with our experts ensures you have a strategic ally throughout your home expansion journey, making the entire process as seamless as possible.

Over-structure extensions

Opting for over-structure extensions, such as those built atop existing structures like garages, offers a smart solution for homeowners looking to expand their living space without encroaching on garden areas. This type of extension is perfect for adding extra rooms—think bathrooms, studies, utility rooms, or lounges—to your first floor, preserving outdoor aesthetics and functionality. However, keep in mind that these projects require extensive structural calculations to ensure the underlying structure can support the additional weight. Such technical considerations may influence the overall cost of your extension, so it's crucial to plan accordingly and consult with a qualified engineer to navigate these complexities.

Side return extensions

Unlock the potential of the pathways alongside your home by embracing the concept of a side return extension. Often overlooked, these side infills are a brilliant solution for converting those neglected alleyways into valuable living spaces. Not only do they expand your home's footprint, but they also allow you to make the most of previously unused areas without sacrificing your garden space. Imagine your kitchen not just enlarged but also infused with more light, creating a bright and inviting open living area. This transformation not only optimizes your living environment but also enhances the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your home.

Dormer extensions

Transforming your underutilized attic into a functional living space could be a game-changer for your home, and a dormer extension might be the ideal solution. By modifying the roof's slope to a flat top that aligns with the existing roofline, a dormer extension effectively creates a spacious "box" area. This newly formed space is ideal for a luxurious master suite with an ensuite bathroom or could provide the extra room needed for a children’s bedroom or play area.

Interestingly, dormer extensions typically fall within your permitted development rights, which might save you the hassle of navigating through a comprehensive planning application process. Not only does this streamline the renovation journey, but it also presents a cost-effective strategy to add an entire new level to your home, enhancing both its functionality and value.

Most Common Roof Extension Types

Roof extensions come in two primary styles: pitched and flat roofs. Pitched roofs are renowned for their durability, making them a popular choice for homeowners looking for a long-lasting solution. On the other hand, flat roofs offer a cost-effective alternative that aligns with modern architectural trends, appealing to those who prioritize contemporary aesthetics alongside budget considerations.

When deciding on a roof extension, consider the advantages of each type. Pitched roofs not only provide enhanced longevity but also offer classic appeal that can enhance the overall look of your home. Meanwhile, flat roofs can be the perfect fit for those who want a sleek, modern finish without breaking the bank. Choose the one that best fits your needs and preferences to make the most of your home improvement project.

Pitched roof

Pitched roofs, with their classic design, seamlessly complement traditional homes, enhancing the aesthetic with their heightened structure and charming elements like exposed beams and sloping ceilings. Renowned for their durability, these roofs are a wise choice for long-term resilience. Their structure also simplifies maintenance and improves drainage efficiency. Although they come with a higher price tag and require more time to install compared to flat roofs, the investment in a pitched roof promises both functional benefits and visual appeal.

Flat Roof

Flat roofs infuse a sleek, modern aesthetic into the design of home extensions, aligning seamlessly with contemporary architectural trends. These designs not only elevate the visual appeal of a property but also provide practical spaces for creative enhancements. Ideal for fitting roof lights, flat roofs can transform into vibrant verandahs or lush roof gardens with the right planning permissions, adding both functionality and value to your home.

However, while flat roofs are typically more affordable and simpler to construct than sloped alternatives, they do present challenges such as durability and water pooling. Addressing these concerns is straightforward: a minor adjustment to include a slight pitch and the use of high-quality construction materials can significantly enhance the roof's longevity. If you're contemplating an extension and seeking expert guidance to bring your vision to life, Resi offers a comprehensive service. From initial design to securing planning permissions and exploring financing options, our team is dedicated to simplifying your home expansion project.

Basement And Cellar Conversion

If you're looking to expand your living space and have a basement, consider converting it, especially if you're in a densely populated area like London. Transforming your basement can significantly increase your property's value, although it's worth noting that these renovations can be expensive. Before diving into such a project, evaluate the costs against the maximum market value of similar properties in your area. This strategic approach ensures that your investment enhances your home’s worth without exceeding the local price limits, safeguarding your finances should you choose to sell in the future.

Oranger extentions

Orangeries blend the architectural features of conservatories and traditional extensions to create airy, light-filled spaces. Typically constructed with sturdy brick pillars and elevated glass roofs, these structures pour natural light into the interior, offering an expansive open-plan feel unlike typical extensions. Whether you're envisioning a cozy dining area, a vibrant playroom, a relaxing living room, or a functional home office, an orangery can be tailored to suit various needs. To ensure comfort throughout the seasons, investing in premium glazing is crucial to prevent extreme temperatures, keeping the space comfortably cool in the summer and warm during the winter.

Conservatory extensions

Adding a conservatory extension to your home is a fantastic way to gain additional living space. Originally designed as sun-filled havens for indoor plants, today's conservatories are constructed from glass and designed to harmonize seamlessly with your home's existing architecture. Whether you're aiming for a design that complements your home's brickwork or have a unique vision in mind, these extensions offer limitless customization in both style and size, making them an ideal setting for hosting gatherings or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon.

Despite their cost-effectiveness, primarily due to their uPVC frames and the ability to be pre-fabricated off-site, it’s crucial to choose quality components. Opting for lower-quality materials might reduce costs upfront but can detract from your home's value over time. To preserve, and potentially enhance, your property’s value, consider investing in superior materials like timber or aluminium frames for your conservatory, ensuring both durability and aesthetic appeal.

Garden Room Extensions

Garden room extensions offer a versatile addition to your home, providing a separate, semi-glazed space with tiled roofing, unlike their fully glass counterparts. These structures serve as a functional solution for leveraging extra space, perfectly adaptable for various uses such as a music room, dance studio, or a home office. While these rooms generally fall under permitted development rights, it’s important to remember that their intended use can influence planning and building regulations. For example, converting a garden room into a bedroom introduces more stringent requirements, potentially necessitating a full planning application to meet local zoning laws.

Porch extensions

Looking to elevate the curb appeal of your home with a touch of elegance and functionality? Consider adding a porch extension, a fantastic option that not only transforms your home’s exterior but also enhances security and provides additional living space. These extensions offer a sophisticated solution to revamping a plain entryway and are perfect for families seeking extra room.

Typically, porch extensions are constructed with full glazing or glass roofs to maximize the influx of natural light into your home, creating a bright and welcoming entrance. The construction process for a front porch is efficient, usually taking about four weeks to complete, making it a practical upgrade with substantial benefits for your home’s aesthetic and functionality.