Side house extension is the process of adding new rooms or enlarging existing ones to the side of the house. This extends its footprint horizontally. Unlike rear extensions, they offer a practical way to increase space with minimal disruption to existing living areas.
A side house extension can be a great option if you want to expand your living space for a growing family or lifestyle changes. Additionally, if you’re hoping to increase the value and functionality of your property, a side extension may be worth considering.
Here, we have listed down all the things that you need to know about side house extensions:
Side House Extension ideas
Utilising Available Gaps
Most houses have extra and unused spaces. Don’t let it go to waste! You can make the most of this space by using it for something useful. It could be a side yard you never use, an alleyway or even a narrow space between your house and the boundary wall.
Here are some ideas to help you get started on how to make the most of any available space or gaps on the side of your house:
- Side Yard Garden Oasis
- Alleyway Transformation
- Boundary Wall Storage
- Outdoor Kitchen or Dining Area
- Extension for Utility Room
- Workspace Extension
- Side Entry Mudroom
- Sunroom or Conservatory
- Guest Suite Addition
- Multi-Functional Space
Complementing Your Home’s Style
When planning a side house extension, be sure the design complements your home’s style. This way, the extension looks like a natural part of your home and adds to its overall look. Take into account things like:
- Materials
- Colours
- Roofline
- Architectural Style
- Proportions
- Window and Door Placement
- Textures
- Historical Context
- Landscaping Integration
- Accessibility
Blending Contrasting Styles
While it’s important to complement the existing style of your home, incorporating contrasting styles can add visual interest and character to your extension. This could involve blending traditional and contemporary design elements, such as pairing a classic brick facade with modern glass features or mixing different textures and finishes for a unique look.
Transforming Side Return Spaces
A side return extension is a way to expand your home by using the narrow strip of land along the side or rear of your property. This space is often not used to its full potential, but it can be renovated to provide more living space, such as a bigger kitchen, dining area, or utility room. Side return extensions are popular in urban areas where space is limited. Here are the top three best side extensions ideas:
a. Bring In Natural Light
- Maximising natural light is essential for a bright and airy living space.
- Choose light-coloured finishes and materials that reflect light, enhancing openness.
- Strategic window and door placement can visually connect with the outdoors by incorporating features such as:
- Large Windows
- Skylights
- Bi-fold Doors
- Light-coloured Finishes
- Glass Partitions
- Mirrors
- Window Treatments
- Light-Reflective Surfaces
- Open Layout
- Outdoor Reflection
b. Add a modern touch
- Embrace contemporary design elements to give your side extension a modern and stylish look. This could involve incorporating:
- Sleek Lines
- Minimalist Finishes
- Innovative Materials
- To enhance the functionality and eco-friendliness of your extension, consider incorporating cutting-edge technology, such as:
- Smart Home Automation Systems
- Energy-Efficient Appliances
- Sustainable Building Materials
- Experiment with bold architectural features and geometric shapes to create a visually striking addition to your home. You can also consider:
- Unexpected Angles
- Statement Ceilings
- Oversized Windows
- Mixed Materials
- Sculptural Elements
- Roof Terraces or Green Roofs
- Dynamic Lighting Design
- Transparent Transitions
c. Merge Indoors and Outdoors
- Install bi-fold or sliding doors that open onto a patio, deck, or garden area to create indoor-outdoor flow. This allows you to enjoy the benefits of both indoor comfort and outdoor ambience.
- Consider incorporating greenery and natural elements, such as indoor plants, living walls, or garden views, to bring a sense of nature into your home and enhance the overall well-being of occupants.
What to Know Before Starting a Side House Extension in London
Before jumping into a side house extension project in London, there are several essential factors you should consider and steps you should take:
1. Planning Permission
Check with your local planning authority (usually your borough council) to determine whether planning permission is required for your proposed extension. In some cases, permitted development rights may allow specific extensions without planning permission, but there are strict guidelines to follow.
2. Building Regulations
Ensure that your extension complies with building regulations. You are building regulations and setting design and construction standards to ensure people’s safety and health in and around buildings. This includes structural stability, fire safety, energy efficiency, and ventilation. You will likely need to obtain building control approval for your extension.
3. Architectural Design
Consider hiring an architect or architectural designer to help you design your extension, maximising small spaces. They can help optimise the layout and ensure the design meets your needs while complementing the existing structure.
4. Budgeting
Establish a realistic budget for your extension project. Consider all costs involved, including design fees, planning application fees, construction costs, materials, labour, and any other expenses. It’s important to factor in contingency funds for unexpected costs that may arise during the project.
5. Neighbourhood Considerations
Consider the character of your neighbourhood and the impact your extension may have on neighbouring properties. Consider how your extension will affect natural light, privacy, and the overall aesthetics of the area.
6. Party Wall Agreement
If your side extension in London involves work on or near a shared wall with a neighbouring property, you may need to obtain a party wall agreement. This agreement outlines both parties’ rights and responsibilities, preventing disputes.
7. Contractors and Builders
Research and hire reputable contractors, builders, or design and build companies in London, like Bohunone, with experience in house extensions. Get multiple quotes and references before deciding. Confirm they’re insured and licensed for the job.
8. Timeline
Make a proper schedule for the time it will take to complete your project. Depending on size and complexity, extensions may take months to complete. Be ready for potential delays due to weather or unforeseen challenges.
9. Utilities and Services
Consider how your extension will impact existing utilities such as water, gas, and electricity. You may need to make arrangements to relocate or extend these services to accommodate the new space.
10. Environmental Impact
Consider adding sustainable features like energy-efficient systems, insulation, and materials. This will reduce your environmental impact and lower your energy costs in the long run.
Final point
In wrapping up, going for a side house extension in London gives you many opportunities to spruce up your living space and boost your property’s value. Just think about nailing down the aspects of planning, design, budgeting, and eco-friendliness, and you’ll be on the right track. With the right crew and a solid plan, you can totally jazz up your home with a chic and practical side extension that seamlessly merges indoor and outdoor vibes. It’s all about crafting your dream home just how you like it! And remember, here are some tips for your side extension to ensure it’s a success.
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