Home Extensions Made Simple:
Your Essential Guide

Planning a Home Extension? Here's What You Need to Know

Expanding your living space through a home extension is a significant decision that can enhance both the functionality and value of your property. At E Partridge Building Services, we have over 20 years of experience delivering high-quality extensions and various construction projects to homeowners across Gloucestershire and the South West. We understand that the process can be overwhelming and is often a big decision for homeowners. That’s why we’ve created this information guide—to help answer your questions and make the journey as straightforward as possible.

To assist you in navigating the process, we’ve compiled this essential guide to address common questions. If you have further inquiries or wish to discuss your specific project, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 01453 762448. Our team is here to help answer any questions you may have!

Types of Home Extensions: Finding the Right Fit

Choosing the right type of home extension is an essential part of the process. It determines how well the new space integrates with your property. It also ensures the extension meets your specific needs. At E Partridge Building Services, we have extensive experience in designing and constructing a wide variety of extensions to suit different requirements and budgets. Here’s an overview of some of the most popular options to help you find the perfect fit for your home:

Single Storey Extensions

A single-storey extension is a fantastic choice if you’re looking to add extra living space without major structural changes. Single-storey extensions are versatile and offer many possibilities. Whether it’s a larger kitchen, an open-plan dining area, or a cosy family room, they can suit various needs. In many cases, they can be completed without requiring planning permission. However, this depends on the specifics of your property.

Double Storey Extensions

If you need significantly more space, a double-storey extension could be the ideal solution. Adding rooms on both levels of your home maximises the use of your property’s footprint. It is also a great way to increase the number of bedrooms or bathrooms to your home. While double-storey extensions often require planning approval, they provide excellent value for money when compared to the cost per square metre.

Wrap Around Extensions

Wrap-around extensions combine a rear and side extension to create an L-shaped addition to your home. This type of extension is perfect for homeowners wanting to completely transform their living space. It offers ample room for a large kitchen-diner, utility room, or even a home office. Wrap-around extensions are ideal for creating a modern, open-plan feel while utilising outdoor space effectively.

Side Return Extensions

A side return extension is designed to make the most of the often-underutilised area to the side of your property. This type of extension is particularly popular for terraced and semi-detached homes, where extending sideways can significantly enhance a kitchen or dining area. Side return extensions are a cost-effective way to add space without encroaching too much on your garden.

Rear Extensions

Rear extensions extend the back of your home into the garden. They offer an excellent opportunity to create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living spaces. These extensions are particularly popular for creating larger kitchens or open-plan living areas and can be tailored to suit both traditional and contemporary homes.

Over-Structure Extensions

An over-structure extension involves building above an existing structure, such as a garage or a flat roof. This approach is a smart way to add space without increasing your home’s overall footprint. This makes it ideal for homes with limited ground space.

Choosing the Right Extension for You

Choosing the right type of home extension is an essential part of the process. It determines how well the new space integrates with your property. It also ensures the extension meets your specific needs. At E Partridge Building Services, we have extensive experience in designing and constructing a wide variety of extensions to suit different requirements and budgets. Here’s an overview of some of the most popular options to help you find the perfect fit for your home:

How to Plan Your Home Extension Project

Planning a house extension is an exciting opportunity to enhance your living space. However, it’s important to approach the project with careful preparation. This will help ensure a smooth and successful outcome. At E Partridge Building Services, we have years of experience helping homeowners navigate the planning process. Here’s our step-by-step guide to planning your house extension, including essential tips on budgeting, timelines, design considerations, and getting started.

Define Your Goals and Requirements

Start by considering what you want to achieve with your house extension. Are you looking to add more space for a growing family, create an open-plan living area, or increase the number of bedrooms? Understanding your priorities will help guide the design process and ensure the final result meets your needs.

Looking for inspiration? Browse online platforms like Pinterest, home improvement websites, and architectural magazines for ideas. Visiting showrooms or recently completed projects in your area can also spark house extension ideas.

Set a Realistic Budget

Budgeting is a crucial aspect of planning any home improvement project. Begin by determining how much you’re willing to invest, and factor in all potential costs, including:

  • Construction costs: Materials, labour, and structural work.

  • Professional fees: Architects, surveyors, and planning consultants.

  • Permissions: Planning applications and building regulations compliance.

  • Finishes: Flooring, lighting, and fixtures.

  • Contingency: Allocate 10–15% extra for unexpected expenses.

Being clear about your budget will help prevent surprises and ensure the project stays on track.