What are the benefits of a wrap-around extension?
If you’re planning to design and build an extension to your home, you may wish to consider a wrap-around extension.
This is an addition to your property that wraps around the rear and side. It is also sometimes referred to as an L-shaped extension.
It can be a good choice to maximise space, adding more versatility than a simple rear or side extension.
We’ll look at the benefits of a wrap-around extension in this article to help you decide whether this option would work for you.
More about wrap-around extensions
Wrap-around extensions combine a side and rear extension to create a bigger space with a variety of uses.
They are typically used to extend period properties with a side return, a narrow strip of land that can often be wasted space.
While smaller side or rear extensions can sometimes be carried out under permitted development rights, you are likely to need planning permission for a wrap-around extension.
Single-storey wrap-around extension cost is also likely to be greater than the cost of a side extension or rear extension only, so this is worth considering while you are in the planning stages.
However, the additional space, enhanced versatility and added value to your property can offset this extra investment.
The benefits of wrap-around extensions
There are lots of reasons why homeowners are opting for wrap-around extensions to enhance their living space.
They make the perfect choice for anyone who wants to open up their downstairs living area, allowing you to create an open-plan kitchen and reception room where all the family can congregate.
With the option of sky lights and bifold doors, a wrap-around extension also offers the opportunity to allow more light into your home, which creates a feeling of spaciousness and airiness.
Many homeowners also appreciate how a wrap-around extension can allow enhanced connection with your outdoor space, granting better flow between house and garden.
You don’t have to be restricted to using the space created by a wrap-around extension for kitchen, dining or family use. You may wish to use some of the space to create a ground-floor bedroom or bathroom, for example, while still extending some of your communal areas.
Finally, wrap-around extensions may add proportionally more value to a property than a simple rear or side extension. That’s because they’re popular with home buyers looking for an open-plan or spacious downstairs area that can fulfil a number of purposes.
I’m interested in a wrap-around extension — what next?
If it sounds like a wrap-around extension could provide the space you need and match your lifestyle, it’s time to get planning.
To make the most of your wrap-around extension, you can call in the help of an extension architect who can create a bespoke design that suits both your property and lifestyle.
They will also be able to guide you through processes such as gaining planning permission, complying with building regulations and understanding the Party Wall Act, which protects your neighbours from building work that affects shared walls or foundations.
If you’re looking for a reliable extension architect with a great track record in planning and designing projects in and around London and Essex, reach out to us here at Humphreys & Sons.
In addition to architecture, our services include chartered building surveying and planning permission consultancy, meaning we can help you with many aspects of your extension, from design to project management.
Get in touch so we can talk through your unique requirements and create a wrap-around extension to make the most of your space.