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Building your dream house, brick by brick since 2012.

Double Storey House Extension

Why Choose a Double Storey Extension?

 

Maximize Living Space

A double storey extension effectively doubles your available space, allowing you to:

  • Add Extra Bedrooms: Ideal for growing families.
  • Create a Home Office: Accommodate remote work with a dedicated space.
  • Expand Living Areas: Enlarge your kitchen, dining, or living rooms.
  • Include Additional Bathrooms: Increase convenience and comfort.

According to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), extending your home is a cost-effective way to gain more space without the expenses of moving.

Increase Property Value

  • Boost Market Appeal: A larger home attracts a broader range of buyers.
  • High Return on Investment: Extensions can add up to 23% to your property's value (Source: Homebuilding & Renovating).

Cost-Effective Expansion

  • Shared Costs: Utilize existing foundations and roofing for both floors.
  • Economies of Scale: Lower cost per square meter compared to single-storey extensions.

Customized Design

  • Tailored Spaces: Design each floor to meet your specific needs.
  • Modern Amenities: Incorporate smart home technology and energy-efficient systems.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: Enhance your home's exterior and interior design.

Planning Permission and Regulations

 

Understanding Planning Permission

  • Mandatory Approval: Double storey extensions typically require planning permission due to their size and impact.
  • Local Council Guidelines: Regulations vary by area; consult your local planning authority.

Permitted Development Rights

In some cases, your extension may fall under permitted development if it meets certain criteria:

  • Size Limitations: Extends no more than 3 meters from the original house (semi-detached) or 4 meters (detached).
  • Height Restrictions: Does not exceed the highest part of the existing roof.
  • Boundary Proximity: Not within 7 meters of the rear boundary.

Always verify with professionals to ensure compliance.

 

Building Regulations Compliance

  • Structural Integrity: Ensure the extension is safely constructed.
  • Fire Safety: Install proper fire doors, alarms, and escape routes.
  • Energy Efficiency: Meet standards for insulation, ventilation, and heating.
  • Accessibility: Adhere to regulations for accessible design features.

Party Wall Agreements

  • Legal Requirement: Necessary if the extension affects shared walls or boundaries.
  • Neighbor Relations: Formal agreement to prevent disputes.

Our team handles all aspects of planning and compliance to streamline your project.

Double Storey House Extension

Design Considerations

 

Architectural Harmony

  • Matching Materials: Use bricks, roofing tiles, and windows that complement the existing structure.
  • Consistent Styling: Maintain architectural features for a seamless look.
  • Roof Design: Align roof pitches and heights for uniformity.

Interior Layout Optimization

  • Functional Flow: Design rooms for convenient movement and accessibility.
  • Lighting Solutions: Incorporate natural and artificial lighting effectively.
  • Space Utilization: Maximize storage with built-in solutions.

Sustainability Features

  • Eco-Friendly Materials: Use recycled or sustainably sourced materials.
  • Renewable Energy Systems: Install solar panels or ground-source heat pumps.
  • Water Conservation: Implement rainwater harvesting and low-flow fixtures.

Integration with Outdoor Spaces

  • Garden Access: Add bi-fold doors or patios to connect indoor and outdoor areas.
  • Landscaping: Plan garden redesigns to complement the extension.

The Construction Process

 

Step 1: Consultation and Planning

  • Initial Meeting: Discuss your vision, requirements, and budget.
  • Feasibility Study: Assess site conditions and potential challenges.
  • Design Proposal: Present preliminary sketches and concepts.

Step 2: Detailed Design and Approval

  • Architectural Drawings: Develop detailed floor plans and elevations.
  • Structural Engineering: Calculate loads and specify materials.
  • Planning Submission: Prepare and submit applications to authorities.
  • Regulatory Approvals: Obtain necessary permits and consents.

Step 3: Pre-Construction Preparation

  • Project Scheduling: Create a timeline with milestones.
  • Contract Agreements: Finalize terms with builders and suppliers.
  • Site Preparation: Secure the area and arrange for utilities.

Step 4: Construction Phase

  • Foundation Work: Excavate and lay foundations according to specifications.
  • Framing and Structure: Build walls, floors, and roof structures.
  • Utility Installations: Install electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems.
  • Inspections: Conduct regular checks for compliance and quality.

Step 5: Interior and Exterior Finishing

  • Insulation and Drywall: Ensure energy efficiency and prepare walls.
  • Flooring and Tiling: Install chosen materials for floors and walls.
  • Painting and Decorating: Apply finishes to walls, ceilings, and trim.
  • Exterior Cladding: Complete brickwork or rendering.

Step 6: Finalization and Handover

  • Snagging List: Identify and rectify any minor issues.
  • Final Inspection: Certify compliance with building regulations.
  • Documentation: Provide warranties, manuals, and certificates.
  • Client Walkthrough: Ensure satisfaction with the completed work.

We provide project management throughout to keep you informed and involved.

Double Storey House Extension

Costs and Budgeting

 

Understanding the Costs

  • Design Fees: Architectural and engineering services.
  • Planning Fees: Application costs for permissions.
  • Construction Costs: Materials, labor, and project management.
  • Finishing Costs: Fixtures, fittings, and landscaping.

Average Cost Breakdown

  • Ground Floor Extension: Approximately £1,500 per square meter.
  • Second Floor Addition: Slightly less due to shared foundations.
  • Total Estimated Cost: Ranges from £60,000 to £200,000, depending on size and specifications.

Budget Management

  • Contingency Fund: Allocate 10-15% extra for unforeseen expenses.
  • Itemized Quotes: Ensure transparency with detailed cost breakdowns.
  • Regular Updates: Keep track of expenditures against the budget.

Financing Your Extension

  • Savings: Utilize personal funds for interest-free investment.
  • Home Equity Loans: Borrow against the value of your property.
  • Financing Plans: Some contractors offer payment plans.

We assist in creating a financial plan that suits your situation.

Case Studies

 

Case Study 1: The Family Home Upgrade

 

Location: Wimbledon

Challenge: A growing family needed more space but didn't want to leave their beloved neighborhood.

 

Solution:

  • Added two bedrooms and a bathroom upstairs.
  • Expanded the kitchen and dining area downstairs.
  • Used matching bricks and roof tiles for seamless integration.

Result:

  • Increased living space by 60 square meters.
  • Enhanced property value by 25%.
  • Family remained in their community with a home that meets their needs.

Case Study 2: Modernizing a Victorian Terrace

 

Location: Central London

Challenge: Update a historic home with modern amenities while preserving its character.

 

Solution:

  • Designed a double storey rear extension.
  • Incorporated large glass panels for natural light.
  • Used period-appropriate materials on the exterior.

Result:

  • Successfully blended old and new aesthetics.
  • Achieved an open-plan living area with a master suite above.
  • Received positive feedback from local conservation officers.

Case Study 3: Sustainable Living Expansion

 

Location: Epsom

Challenge: Create an eco-friendly extension adhering to strict environmental standards.

 

Solution:

  • Installed solar panels and a green roof.
  • Used timber frames and recycled materials.
  • Implemented underfloor heating and triple-glazed windows.

Result:

  • Reduced energy consumption by 50%.
  • Provided a healthier living environment for the family.

Read more about our successful projects here.

Double Storey House Extension

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q: How long does a double storey extension take to complete?

A: The entire process typically takes 6 to 9 months, including design, planning approvals, and construction. The timeline can vary based on the project's complexity and the local authority's processing times.

Q: Will the extension cause significant disruption to my daily life?

A: We strive to minimize disruption by:

  • Efficient Scheduling: Planning work to reduce impact on your routine.
  • Clean Worksites: Maintaining tidy areas and managing waste.
  • Clear Communication: Keeping you informed about upcoming activities.

Q: Can the extension be designed to future-proof my home?

A: Absolutely. We can incorporate features like:

  • Flexible Spaces: Rooms that can adapt to changing needs.
  • Smart Home Technology: Automated lighting, heating, and security.
  • Accessibility: Design elements that accommodate mobility changes.

Q: How do I ensure the extension won't negatively affect my neighbors?

A: We conduct:

  • Impact Assessments: Evaluate sightlines, overshadowing, and privacy.
  • Consultations: Engage with neighbors during the planning stage.
  • Compliance: Adhere to regulations regarding boundaries and party walls.

Q: What if my property is in a conservation area or is a listed building?

A: Special considerations are required, but extensions are still possible:

  • Heritage Approval: Obtain necessary consents from heritage bodies.
  • Sensitive Design: Use materials and styles that preserve historical value.
  • Expert Guidance: Our team has experience navigating these complexities
Double Storey House Extension

Get Started Today

 

Ready to enhance your home with a double storey extension?

  • Free, No-Obligation Consultation: Discuss your ideas with our experts.
  • Personalized Service: From concept to completion, we're with you every step.
  • Quality Assurance: Committed to excellence in every project
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© Home Shape Ltd, Company Number: 8118027, VAT: 142 7996 78, Address: 10 Kedeston Court, Sutton, SM1 3JG, Tel: 078 7749 7598,  Email: info@homeshape.co.uk
 

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