Single Storey Extension in London

Single storey extension are the most popular way London homeowners add space. You’re extending back or to the side. You’re adding one level of living area. Understanding what single storey extensions cost in London, or learning when you need Planning Permission, helps you plan realistically. Single storey extensions solve real space problems for London families. They’re more affordable than double storey. They’re often simpler to get approved. Understanding your options helps you make the right choice for your London property.

Popular Types of Single Storey Extensions in London Homes

Kitchen extensions are most common. London kitchens are often cramped. Extensions add proper cooking and dining space. They open up the back of properties. They transform how families live.

Living room extensions add comfortable lounge space. They create flow from existing living areas. They provide room for entertaining. They enhance daily life significantly.

Bedroom extensions add sleeping space. Ground floor bedrooms work for aging homeowners or additional guest rooms. They’re practical additions to many properties.

Home office extensions create dedicated workspace separate from main house. Growing in popularity post-pandemic. Quiet, professional space for working.

Garden rooms blur the line between indoors and outdoors. Glass extensions maximize light and views. They’re popular in London where outdoor space is valued.

Wrap-around extensions use side garden space. They create L-shaped additions adding significant space. More complex but transformative for properties.

Dining room extensions provide dedicated eating space. Separated from kitchens. Proper entertaining areas.

Playroom extensions create dedicated children’s spaces. Keeping toys and mess separated from main house.

Good design respects existing building character. Materials should match. Proportions should work. Extensions should look intentional, not added as afterthoughts.

Planning Permission vs Permitted Development in London

Many single storey extensions in London qualify for Permitted Development. This avoids Planning Permission entirely.

For Permitted Development to apply, specific conditions must be met. Rear extensions must be maximum four meters deep. Terraced properties have three meter limits. Extensions can’t exceed 50 percent of original garden area. Height must not exceed existing house eaves height.

If your extension meets these conditions, you don’t need Planning Permission. Building Regulations approval is still required. But Planning Permission isn’t necessary.

If your extension exceeds any limits, Planning Permission is needed. This takes 8 to 12 weeks typically. You submit plans to the council. They review and approve or refuse.

In London, Conservation Areas affect these rules significantly. Many London neighborhoods have Conservation Area designation. Design must respect area character. Materials must match existing. Proportions must work. These restrictions sometimes prevent Permitted Development qualification even when size limits are met.

Listed buildings almost always need Planning Permission. Listed building consent is required for most changes.

Getting professional assessment determines whether your extension qualifies for Permitted Development. This clarity prevents mistakes.

How Much Does a Single Storey Extension Cost in London?

Costs vary by specific circumstances but generally follow patterns.

In central London, single storey extensions typically cost 2000 to 2800 per square meter. For a 30 square meter extension, construction might run 60000 to 84000. Add professional fees at 10 to 15 percent. Add contingency at 10 percent. Total project cost probably runs 78000 to 107000.

In outer London, costs are moderately lower. Typically 1800 to 2400 per square meter. For a 30 square meter extension, total project cost might run 68000 to 92000.

What affects cost? Ground conditions matter significantly. Good stable ground costs less. Poor ground requiring deep foundations costs more. Clay soil or contamination adds cost.

Existing building condition affects cost. Properties in good condition cost less. Buildings with complications cost more. Asbestos or hazardous materials add substantial cost.

Design complexity affects pricing. Simple rectangular extensions cost less. Complex shapes with multiple angles cost more. Unusual proportions cost more.

Material choices matter. Budget materials cost less. Premium materials cost more. Matching existing London brick costs more than standard brick.

Finish quality affects cost. Budget finishes cost less. Mid-range finishes are typical. Premium finishes add 20 to 30 percent.

Planning permission complexity affects cost and timeline. Simple approvals happen faster. Complex approvals with revisions take longer and cost more.

Design Ideas That Work Best for London Properties

Kitchen-dining extensions work beautifully. They combine cooking and eating areas. They open the back of properties. They create flow to gardens.

Living room extensions create comfortable entertaining spaces. They extend existing living areas. They provide room for families to spread out.

Glass extensions maximize light and views. They create connection to gardens. They’re popular in London where outdoor space is precious.

Modern materials with traditional proportions suit London properties. Contemporary materials respecting period style work well. Extensions look intentional.

Bifold doors create seamless flow to gardens. Large glass areas bring light inside. Proper roof design prevents overheating.

Matching existing materials preserves character. Brick matching existing. Roof materials matching existing. Extensions integrate naturally.

Roof design matters. Hip roofs match existing roofs and look integrated. Gable roofs create visual interest. Flat roofs suit modern properties.

Natural light is maximized. Windows positioned for light. Rooflights bring daylight to interior spaces.

Why Homeowners Choose Extension Architecture for Single Storey Extensions

Extension Architecture specializes in London single storey extensions. They understand London neighborhoods thoroughly. They know different areas. They understand Planning Committees.

They assess whether Permitted Development applies. They navigate Planning Permission when needed. They get approvals efficiently.

They design with cost in mind. They maximize space within budget. They explain cost drivers. They deliver quality within realistic budgets.

They manage projects professionally. Site visits happen regularly. Quality is monitored. Problems are addressed. You know what’s happening.

They deliver what they promise. On budget. On time. Quality completed.

For your London single storey extension, Extension Architecture provides the expertise you need. They understand your neighborhood. They design solutions that work. They manage the entire process professionally from concept through completion.