PROJECT FOCUS - SINGLE-STOREY EXTENSIONS

CONSIDERING ADDING AN EXTENSION TO YOUR HOME? OUR EXPERT GUIDE TAKES YOU THROUGH EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW, FROM PERMISSIONS TO THE REALITIES OF LIVING ON-SITE

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Q Single-storey extensions are among the most popular ways to add extra space and value to a house - and it really isn't hard to see why. Unlike two-storey extensions, single-storey designs often don't require planning permission, plus they can totally transform an existing layout, allowing you to use your home in ways you hadn't perhaps previously considered, as well as enhancing the external appearance of your property.

Here, we take you through everything that is involved with building a single-storey extension, from how much to budget to the ways in which professional designers can help develop your plans to create something completely unique to your needs and those of your family.

'If you are tired of the existing aesthetics, or want to introduce something more purposeful, this type of extension can be transformative,' explains architect Jason Laity, director at Unity Architects.

Q.1 WHAT ARE THE PROS (AND CONS)?

a Before commencing any kind of home improvement project, be that a kitchen extension or a loft conversion, you need to be sure that the effort, cost and disruption to day-to-day life will be worth it in the end. In order to be sure that a singlestorey extension is right for your needs and your home, it is important that you fully understand all the pros and cons associated with this type of addition.

On the plus side, single-storey extensions don't always require planning permission and can completely transform the appearance of your existing home. 'A single-storey extension may present an opportunity to establish a new architectural language for your building,' explains Jason. They're a great way to bring more natural light into your home as well as adding space. What's more, a single-storey design is usually quicker and cheaper to build than a two-storey extension.