When it comes to making space at home, you can’t beat an extension. The space they create is regularly used for additional bedrooms, ensuite bathrooms, larger kitchens, open-plan living spaces, home cinemas and gyms - whatever you are looking to achieve.
But what you do with the added space will depend on your first decision: what kind of extension you build. There are different types, built around different parts of the house, varying in price and feasibility, so how do you pick one?
So which projects are there to choose from?
Ground floor rear extensions are one of the most common extension types. They extend out of the back of the property into garden space. They are often finished with glass doors to increase natural light and accessibility to the garden.
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Common uses:
London estimate: £45,000 - £98,000
Outside London estimate: £37,000 - £80,000
Ground floor side extensions are built to the side of a property, which requires there to be enough free space. This usually restricts them to detached or end of terrace properties.
Pros:
Cons:
Common uses:
London estimate: £45,000 - £98,000
Outside London estimate: £37,000 - £80,000
Check out this example of a traditional side extension!
A ground floor side return extension (sometimes known as a side infill) is a specific type of side extension which fills into an alleyway, squaring off an L-shaped property. Side returns are often applied to Victorian terraced properties as they typically feature this side alley.
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Common uses:
London estimate: £52,000 - £98,000
Outside London estimate: £44,000 - £80,000
Check out this example of a side return extension!
Ground floor wraparound extensions combine a side or side return extension with a rear extension to create a huge L-shaped addition to the side and rear of a property. They allow for the introduction of premium features, such as doors, glazing and skylights.
Pros:
Cons:
Common uses:
London estimate: £52,000 - £98,000
Outside London estimate: £44,000 - £80,000
Check out this example of a wraparound extension!
If a single-storey side or rear extension isn’t enough for you, you can always make them two storeys high! These are great for a dramatic home transformation, if you have the space and budget to spare.
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Common uses:
London estimate: £78,000 - £146,000
Outside London estimate: £65,000 - £120,000
Check out this example of a two-storey extension!
A basement extension can mean building a new basement below the house or extending an existing one. A main house basement extension adds space directly below the main section of the property.
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Common uses:
London estimate: £150,000 - £260,000 (50 sqm)
Outside London estimate: £124,000 - £215,000 (50 sqm)
A whole house basement extension adds an entire additional floor below the ground floor of the property. This is a dramatic change and creates lots of space, but the challenges of this project can affect price and feasibility.
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Common uses:
London estimate: £240,000 - £416,000 (80 sqm)
Outside London estimate: £198,000 - £343,000 (80 sqm)
If your ground floor extends to the back or side of your property, you may be able to extend your first floor over it. Among other things, the feasibility is affected by the ground floor structure. A structural engineer will decide if it is strong enough to build over, otherwise it may cost a lot of money to strengthen.
Pros:
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Common uses:
London estimate: £30,000 - £65,000
Outside London estimate: £25,000 - £54,000
Dormer loft extensions project vertically from the slope of the existing roof, creating a box shape. They are typically installed with conventional windows, although balconies can be installed as well.
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Common uses:
London estimate: £38,000 - £65,000 (25 sqm)
Outside London estimate: £31,000 - £54,000 (25 sqm)
Check out this example of a dormer loft extension!
A hip to gable loft conversion straightens an inwardly slanted end roof to create a vertical wall. This small change can make a huge difference to the feel of the living space inside, but is typically limited to detached and end of terrace properties.
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Common uses:
London estimate: £38,000 - £65,000
Outside London estimate: £31,000 - £54,000
A mansard loft extension is constructed by raising the party wall (the wall shared with your neighbours), and then building out the loft against this wall. The roof remains flat, while one outer wall slopes gently inwards. Mansards are typically found at the rear of the house, and although they are suitable for many property types, they are most popular in terraced houses.
Pros:
Cons:
Common uses:
London estimate: £42,000 - £70,000
Outside London estimate: £35,000 - £58,000
You should consider these factors when choosing an extension:
Use
How are you going to use your space? If you want a bigger kitchen it’s no good looking up to the loft. Typically, an extension type will suit a certain use.
Feasibility
Will you get permission to build it? Whether building within your permitted development rights or submitting a planning application, there are certain rules your project must follow to be built legally.
Cost
What are you willing to spend? Extension costs vary from project to project, but some are naturally more expensive than others. Basement extensions, for example, cost more due to the complexities involved with digging down.
*The costs we have provided throughout do not include VAT at 20%, nor do they include key fit-out items, such as kitchens, glazing, landscaping and bathrooms. The cost will also be affected if you plan to refurbish existing rooms alongside your extension.
To calculate the extra cost or to get a tailored estimate for your project, we suggest speaking with a member of our team.
Book in a call with our experts and take the first step towards making your dream home a reality!
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