Side return extensions seem to be all the rage at the moment – at least in Brighton, those wily Londoners have been at it for years – and there are numerous reasons why. But as always it is the simplicity of it that makes it so desirable, in city made up of period homes many of us are sitting on wasted bit of space, down the side of the house, that could be utilised to give us more living space. Add to the mix that often the work can be done without the need of a full planning application (always take advice before starting work) it really is a great way of making the home bigger.
It’s not a cheap way of extending a home – after all it requires removing an outside supporting wall – but for many the addition of that living space is worth every penny. The trend for kitchen/dining rooms is as strong as ever as once more we really do view the kitchen as the hub of the home, so these extensions increase not only the user-friendly nature of a home but also the desirability if selling in the future. The main piece of advice we will give is think about light. Normally an existing internal room will lose its natural light so the extension has to compensate for this. Roof lights and full width bi-folding doors can flood a room with natural light and immediately offer the ‘wow factor’. Glass extensions can look amazing but be prepared for the cleaning – and build cost.
Most of all, don’t be afraid to be bold with your ideas.*
(*subject to necessary planning and consents)
For loads of hints, tips and ideas on side return extension check out our Pinterest page here