House Extensions

A rear extension is one of the most popular ways to enlarge a home, particularly where homeowners want to create a larger kitchen, dining or family living area.

A well-considered rear extension can open up the back of a property, improve the connection between the house and garden and introduce more natural light into the existing home.

We consider the relationship between the proposed extension and the existing building, including proportions, ceiling heights, window positions, circulation and views towards the garden.

Where appropriate, we can explore different approaches to the rear elevation, roof form, glazing and internal layout to create a space that feels integrated with the existing property rather than simply added onto it.

For properties with unused space to the side, a side extension or side-return extension can provide an opportunity to increase the usable floor area without significantly extending into the rear garden.

Side-return extensions are particularly common on terraced and semi-detached properties where the existing side passage or narrow strip of garden can be incorporated into the house.

These projects can create wider kitchen and dining areas, improve circulation and make better use of previously underused space.

We carefully consider how a side extension connects to the existing building, neighbouring properties and the garden, while also considering natural light, privacy and the overall character of the home.

A wrap-around extension combines a rear extension with a side extension, creating a larger increase in floor area and allowing greater flexibility when reconfiguring the ground floor.

This type of extension can be particularly effective for homeowners looking to create a substantial open-plan kitchen, dining and living environment.

However, because wrap-around extensions can have a greater impact on the property and site, careful consideration needs to be given to planning, neighbouring properties, garden space, daylight and the relationship between the existing and proposed building.

SMY Architecture can explore the potential of a wrap-around extension as part of a wider architectural design, ensuring that the additional floor area contributes meaningfully to the way the home is used.

A single-storey house extension can provide additional living space while maintaining a relatively straightforward relationship with the existing property.

Depending on the requirements of the project, a single-storey extension can accommodate a new kitchen, dining area, family room, utility space, home office or other flexible living accommodation.

We consider the overall proportions of the extension, roof design, natural light, internal layout and relationship with the garden.

The design can be developed to complement the existing architecture or introduce a more contemporary architectural language where appropriate.

A double-storey extension can provide additional space across two floors, making it possible to create larger living areas downstairs while also providing additional bedrooms, bathrooms or other accommodation.

Double-storey extensions require careful consideration of the existing structure, neighbouring properties, overlooking, privacy, daylight, roof form and planning requirements.

We approach these projects by considering the entire house rather than treating the extension as an isolated addition.

The aim is to create an extension that improves the functionality of the property while maintaining an appropriate relationship with the existing building and surrounding context.

Every extension project is different, and the design will depend on the property, site, planning context and client’s requirements.

We can assist with developing the architectural design and preparing the drawings and information required for the relevant planning process.

Where structural engineering, Building Regulations or other technical information is required, SMY Architecture works directly with trusted specialist professionals to coordinate these elements with the architectural design.