Ideas for side return extensions
Side return extensions make the most of wasted space at the side of your property without taking up much of your garden.
They are a popular choice for terraced properties in urban localities and offer a variety of opportunities to make the most of what would otherwise be a redundant area.
With a bit of imagination, you can come up with some creative ideas for side return extensions. We’ll discover some of these in our latest post.
Open-plan kitchen
You can use the space a side return extension provides to create a much bigger, open-plan kitchen.
In this case, you are likely to need to remove an internal wall to open up your downstairs area.
The extra space your side extension can provide can offer a separate dining area or simply add to the feeling of spaciousness in your new kitchen.
Extra storage space
Even if your side return footprint is small, it can offer a wealth of extra storage space.
Clever storage ideas such as inbuilt cupboards or open shelves means you can efficiently store or display items in the narrow space a side return offers.
“Bootility” room
The latest buzz word in interior design is “bootility” — a combination of a boot room and utility room.
A side return with a door leading to the garden can provide the perfect space for keeping muddy wellies, pet accessories and outdoor gear.
It can double up as a utility room, where you can keep your washing machine and tumble dryer, freeing up space in your kitchen.
Wrap-around extension
If you have space, consider combining a side return with a rear extension to create a “wrap-around” extension.
This can really open up your home, providing a number of possibilities. You could create the ultimate open-plan kitchen, dining and family space, for example, with different zones for various functions.
You could also partition off some of this extra space to create a downstairs bedroom and en suite for guests or a family member who finds stairs an issue.
What are my next steps towards a side return extension?
We hope you’ve been inspired by some of these side return extension ideas. If so, it’s time to start planning your exciting building project.
Discussing your aims with an architect is always a good place to start. They will have the expertise and creative skills to make the most of your space, offering different ways to achieve your goals.
If you’re wondering about the architect fees for a small extension, know that it’s often a good investment to get a professional to help you with your project. They can save you money in the long run by offering the most efficient ideas for your budget and saving you from making costly mistakes.
Side extension costs
The cost of your side extension is another consideration at the outset of your project. While it’s hard to pinpoint the exact price of a side extension, the Homebuilding & Renovating website recently reported a rough guide of £1,500 to £2,250 per square metre.
To get a more accurate figure, you’ll need to break down the costs of separate components. These include:
Creating the structure (materials and labour)
Plumbing and heating work
Electrical work
Flooring
Kitchen units and worktops (if applicable)
White goods (if applicable)
Decorating
Talk to your builder or architect to drill down on the details of your unique project.
Looking for a side return extension architect?
If you’re looking for a side return extension architect in London or Essex, get in touch with the team here at Humphreys & Sons.
We’re a family firm of architects and chartered building surveyors who love the challenge of creating exciting ideas for side return extensions.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to know more about our architectural and related services.
Related Blogs
