Building an Extension: Create the Perfect Extra Room

Do you often have the feeling your house is too small? It’s a common problem, but moving to a larger place, taking out a new mortgage, and all the hassle involved is a big undertaking. Why not consider extending your current property?

It will cost less and can add value to your home above the cost of the construction. All the benefits of moving, but without the hassle.

Building an Extension

An extension project is like building a house but on a smaller scale.

Have a Plan

Nothing should be attempted without a proper plan. Even if you only have the basics of what you need, it’s important to write them down before approaching potential builders and architects.

The first consideration is where the extension is to be built. Is it to be an extension coming off the side or back of the house?

Or is it a new room on top of a single-story room? You could also consider converting a garage into another room. With this info in hand, it will make getting an accurate quote easier.

Get Planning Permission

Once you have the proper plans drawn up, then you can apply for planning permission. Obtaining this permission is critical to the success of the project.

In many areas of life, the old saying, ‘it’s easier to seek forgiveness than ask permission‘ is true, but not in this case.

If you retrospectively seek planning permission, it is not uncommon to be forced to abandon construction and start again.

Think about Utilities

When planning the layout, it is good to think about where you require the utilities to be. Power sockets might be required next to a desk if the room is to be a study.

Heating and air conditioning are other considerations, can you run an extra heater or air conditioner off the existing system?

It may be that the system is at capacity, and then a single-room air conditioner might be the answer.

Space & Light

How many windows can you have? No matter how many may answer, we always say more are better, nothing beats natural light, and blinds can block it out when undesirable.

If you are building a room that has open space above a skylight can improve the ambiance in any space. When considering artificial light for the evening, think beyond the traditional single overhead light.

Consider the layout of your lights and lamps to be an opportunity to paint the room with light and shadow.

Furniture

Once the building is complete, we need to furnish the room. Less is more is a strategy we would swear by, there is nothing worse than an overly cluttered room. Give reasonable thought to the placement of furniture.

Don’t automatically default to placing everything at the side pressed up against the walls. A bit of space behind the furniture can give a good flow to the room.

Choosing the right size and shape of furniture can also help in this regard.

Most manufacturers and retailers will be more than happy to assist. Just remember to get proper measurements before you buy!