02/07/2026
๐ '๐๐จ๐ฑ ๐จ๐ง ๐๐๐๐ค' ๐๐ฑ๐ญ๐๐ง๐ฌ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐๐จ๐๐ฌ๐ง'๐ญ ๐ก๐๐ฏ๐ ๐ญ๐จ ๐๐ ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ข๐ง๐ โจ
When we start designing an extension, there's rarely just one answer even when on first look it seems it. There are always multiple ways to approach the brief, each with its own trade-offs. Here are three options we explored for the same house, all aiming to maximise the space but each solving it differently.
โ
๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ผ๐ฝ๐ผ๐๐ฎ๐น ๐ญ:
The smallest of the three, aligned with the neighbour's existing extension to make construction detailing simpler. This option was all about creating a kitchen and dining space that feels properly integrated, with the dining table doubling as extra worktop space to make the room feel as large as possible. A little utility area off the back gives somewhere to stash shoes, keep garden dirt out of the house, and tuck the washing machine out of sight.
โ
๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ผ๐ฝ๐ผ๐๐ฎ๐น ๐ฎ:
This option maximises the full 4m permitted development allowance. To keep costs down, we suggested avoiding new openings on the existing rear wall, and instead using that naturally darker inner zone for tall storage and the fridge, freeing up the kitchen to be bright, open, and uncluttered.
โ
๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ผ๐ฝ๐ผ๐๐ฎ๐น ๐ฏ:
Stepping the extension away from the boundary reduces party wall complications and makes for a simpler (and cheaper) build. It also allowed for a door into a utility area, tucked away from the main elevation solving their ongoing battle with dirty shoes from the garden. The corner glazing is also a great architectural feature, without blowing the budget.
โ
Same house, same brief, three completely different directions.
โ
That's the bit we love about the concept stage, helping clients see what's actually possible before committing to one path ๐
โ
Thinking about extending? Get in touch to chat through what could work for your home.