Running out of space at home but don’t want to move? A single storey extension could be your perfect solution. From sunlit family rooms to open-plan kitchens or quiet home offices, it’s a simple way to breathe new life into your home. A ground floor extension has always been one of those things that really changes how your home feels and works. Maybe you dream of a bright family room, or a kitchen-diner that’s open and social, or even just a simple home office – whatever the case, it’s a solid way to give your house a fresh life.
We are going to discuss what a single storey front extension can add to your home, what influences the price of a new extension, and what innovative design ideas can be used to maximise the space of your new additional room, as well as what role our experts at Extension Architecture would play in bringing your idea to life in this blog.
Considering a Single Storey Extension? Here’s Your Essential Guide
Adding a single storey extension is one of the most popular home improvement projects in the UK and for good reason. It enables the house owners to enlarge their living space tremendously without changing the height of the property ideal for in bungalows, terraced houses, and semi-detached houses.
Single storey extensions usually extend from the back or side of your house. They’re perfect for:
- Expanding your kitchen or living space
- Adding a comfortable lounge or bedroom
- Increasing natural light and improving home flow
- Single Storey Extensions
- Boosting property value
Planning permission for single storey extensions in the UK is relatively straightforward, especially when your project falls under the Permitted Development Rules. Still, there are certain rules you need to follow, like height limits or how close to the boundary you can build, so honestly it’s smarter to ask experts before going too far.
Endless Possibilities: How a Single Storey Extension Can Transform Your Home
The real question isn’t why you should consider a single storey extension but what you can do with it. One of the greatest strengths of such extensions is its flexibility.
- Open-Plan Kitchen and Dining Area
One of the most common uses for a single storey extension is to create a spacious, open-plan kitchen and dining area. Most people go for a single storey extension when they want that big open kitchen plus dining area. It’s the heart of the home today, a spot to chill with family or welcome friends.
- Garden Rooms
Another trendy opportunity to connect your interior space with the garden would be to install floor-to-ceiling glazing or bi-fold doors. These rooms give your house a good amount of natural light and provide you a relaxing corner.
- Home office or Studio
As the remote workplace is gradually becoming the standard, a separate working environment also becomes more useful. An extension to the side or the rear of only one storey can be used to give a quiet workable office space which is always outside the busy life.
- Another Room: Living or Guest Room
Do you require a play room to keep the kids entertained, a new lounge or a guest bedroom, a ground floor extension provides you with this privilege to build around your way of living.
What Really Determines the Cost of Your Extension?
It is vital to realise the economics aspect of your project when designing it. The cost of a single storey extension in the UK typically ranges from £1,800 to £3,000 per square meter, but several factors can cause that number to vary:
Area of Extension: Obviously bigger space will consume more in materials and labour.
Design Complexity: A simple rectangular construction will be less costly compared to a custom architectural project that will involve rampant glazing or special roofing.
Presence in the UK: The labour and material costs are usually higher in London and the South East.
Material Choice: Top-end kitchens, high-quality fittings such as stainless steel and bi-fold doors, underfloor heating etc. will cost you a lot.
Site Situation: The site can be expensive due to poor access, a sloping garden or awkward ground.
Planning and Structural Requirements: Depending on your property you may require planning permission, structural calculations, or even a party wall agreement.
Knowing the budget and having a good team of prestigious people in the first place will help avoid unpleasant surprises and delays.
Brilliant Design Tips to Make Your Extension Bright, Spacious & Functional
Glazing Utilisation:
Make sure the space gets plenty of sunlight, maybe by skylight, tall windows or wide glass sliding. Even glass roof or roof lights can totally change the vibe, giving more air and lift to the room, north side or not.
Indoor-Outdoor Living without boundaries:
Use the identical flooring throughout the house and in the garden to make it look visually like an extension of the living area. Wide bi-fold or sliding doors allow eliminating the distinction between the outside and inside and are ideal during the summer entertainment.
Perimeter living space Zoned living space:
When you have open plan, you can break it into smaller parts using subtle things – partitions, furniture, or flooring change. This makes the space feel more organised between cooking, eating and chilling.
Smart Storing Solutions:
Don’t stress about storage! In-built cabinets or hidden wardrobes aids in ensuring your new place is tidy and less cluttered.
