How do I design and build an extension for my terraced house?
Terraced houses are full of character. With many such properties built in Victorian and Edwardian times, they lend period charm to everyday living.
However, one of their downsides is that without modification, they are generally not suited to how we live today. Rooms tend to be small and layouts confusing.
An extension can breathe new life into your home — but you may be wondering how to design and build an extension for a terraced house.
You may also want to know more about the cost of rear or side extension costs. We’ll look at these questions and more in our latest post.
What are the different types of terrace extensions?
Let’s start by looking at the types of extensions that are suitable for terraced properties.
Side return extensions
A side return extension uses the redundant space that you find at the side of older properties. You might be surprised to know how much this small footprint can transform a terraced house.
You can use side return extensions to create a larger, open-plan kitchen and dining area. They can also provide the perfect space for a small utility or boot room.
To make your side return extension feel light and airy, you can incorporate glass into your design. Add a glass ceiling or patio doors, which will create a connection to the garden too.
Side extension costs are generally affordable, as this type of project only uses a limited amount of space and resources.
Single storey rear extensions
A single storey rear house extension will be costly but can offer more scope, particularly if you choose to use the whole width of your house.
An open-plan kitchen-diner or a kitchen with family room is a popular choice for this type of extension. Adding bifold doors can help connect the inside and outside and create a completely different feel to your terraced property.
You may also want to consider adding a downstairs shower room or cloakroom if you have space. Boot and utility rooms can also be welcome additions that can change how you use the downstairs of your house.
Double storey rear extension
Another possibility is a double storey rear extension. This can be a practical long-term solution, adding extra space on two floors that you can adapt as your family grows. It means you can avoid the expense and hassle of moving house if you outgrow your present space.
Opting for a double storey rear extension gives you plenty of scope to design an extra bedroom, a bathroom and reception room downstairs too.
Loft conversion extension
Loft conversion extensions are good choices for terraced properties. Because they use space within the existing footprint of the house, you don’t eat into your limited outdoor space.
You can choose from different types of loft extensions. A roof light extension is the simplest and most affordable option. Or you could opt for a flat-roofed dormer extension, which offers more headroom.
Mansard loft extensions work well on terraced properties too. They are usually built at the rear of properties and change a sloping roof to an almost vertical side. Dormer windows are often added. These changes can add a significant amount of extra internal space to your property.
Do I need planning permission?
You do not necessarily need planning permission to extend your terraced house. For example, you may be able to create a simple roof light loft conversion under permitted development rules.
Even side or rear extensions may be exempt from planning permission if they fall within these rules.
However, you must check the requirements with your local council. You can do this yourself or get a planning permission consultant to do this for you.
What about a Party Wall Agreement?
The Party Wall Act is a framework for managing issues related to walls or boundaries you share with your neighbour.
If issues are likely to arise, a Party Wall Agreement can be drawn up to set out your and your neighbour’s rights and responsibilities. It means that everyone knows where they stand and reduces the risk of disputes.
An experienced party wall surveyor can guide you through the Party Wall Act and create an agreement for you if necessary.
Can an architect help with the design and build?
A good architect can definitely help you with the design and build of your extension. They will assess your space and come up with ideas for making the most out of it, even if it is limited.
They can also provide advice and practical help with planning permission issues. This is useful if you live in a built-up area and need to create a design that doesn’t overlook neighbouring properties.
If your architect works in a practice with other professionals, they can link with them for advice on planning permission and the Party Wall Act.
In short, an architect is your go-to professional to help you get the most out of your terrace extension.
Cost of an extension for my terraced house
Extension costs will vary depending on a number of factors. For example, the cost of a side extension may be a lot less than that of a double storey rear extension.
As well as the type of extension you opt for, cost will also depend on:
Your location — building work in London and the south-east tends to be more expensive than in other areas of the country
The size and design of your extension
The specification of your extension
Any extra professional fees to help design and build your extension.
Bear in mind that appointing professionals can save you money in the long run. An architect, for example, can produce a design that makes the most of your space and is energy-efficient. They can also advise on aspects such as planning permission and party wall agreements, helping to avoid costly mistakes.
As a rough guide, Homebuilding & Renovating suggests a cost of £1,500 to £2,250 per square metre plus VAT at 20% for terraced house extensions.
Achieve extra space in your terraced home
A terraced property can provide plenty of options for expansion. With the help of an experienced architect, you can achieve extra beautiful and practical space in your terraced home.
If you’re looking for professional guidance, be sure to turn to Humphreys & Sons. We’re a firm of architects and chartered building surveyors with a great track record in terrace extensions in London and Essex.
Call us today for an informal chat about transforming your terraced space.
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