Tag: bungalow

Advice Center

A Comprehensive Guide to Bungalow House Planning

2nd February 20240

Bungalows are timeless architectural gems that blend functionality with charm, offering a single-story living experience that many homeowners find appealing. Planning your dream bungalow requires careful consideration and attention to detail. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the key aspects of bungalow house planning, helping you create a space that not only meets your needs but also reflects your unique style.

Define Your Requirements:

Begin the planning process by clearly outlining your requirements. Consider the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and any specific features you desire. Think about your lifestyle and how the layout of the bungalow can enhance your daily activities. Identifying your needs from the start will serve as a solid foundation for the entire planning process.

Set a Budget:

Establishing a budget is a crucial step in any construction project. Determine the amount you are willing to invest in your bungalow, factoring in construction costs, permits, and potential unforeseen expenses. A well-defined budget will guide your decision-making process and help you stay on track throughout the project.

Choose a Suitable Architect:

Selecting an experienced architect is key to bringing your bungalow vision to life. Look for professionals with a portfolio that aligns with your style and preferences. Collaborate closely with the architect to discuss your ideas, ensuring they understand your vision and can translate it into a feasible and aesthetically pleasing design.

Consider the Layout:

The layout of your bungalow is a critical aspect of the planning process. Consider the flow of spaces, the relationship between rooms, and how natural light will be maximized. Aim for an open and airy feel, with thoughtful placement of windows and doors to create a harmonious living environment.

Pay Attention to Details:

Small details can make a big difference in the overall design of your bungalow. Consider features such as built-in storage, energy-efficient appliances, and sustainable materials. Additionally, think about future needs, such as potential expansions or modifications, and incorporate flexibility into the design.

Think About Outdoor Spaces:

Bungalows often come with ample outdoor space. Plan for gardens, patios, or decks that seamlessly connect with the interior. Consider the orientation of the bungalow on the lot to take advantage of natural surroundings and views. Outdoor spaces should complement the overall design and enhance the overall living experience.

Ensure Accessibility:

If you plan to age in place or want to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges, prioritize accessibility in your bungalow design. Include features such as wider doorways, step-free entrances, and a user-friendly layout to ensure everyone can move around comfortably.

Obtain Necessary Approvals:

Before breaking ground, it’s essential to obtain all necessary permits and approvals from local authorities. Work closely with your architect and contractors to ensure compliance with building codes and regulations. This step is crucial for a smooth construction process and avoiding potential setbacks.

Conclusion:

Planning your dream bungalow requires thoughtful consideration of various factors. By following this step-by-step guide, you can navigate the planning process with confidence, ensuring that your bungalow not only meets your immediate needs but also stands as a testament to your unique style and preferences. Embrace the journey of creating a space that you’ll cherish for years to come.

Image: iStock

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Conversions

Things You Need To Know When Converting Your Bungalow

7th February 20230

Converting your bungalow by extending upwards or adding another storey is a great way to add lots of space at an affordable price. If you have a larger property you may be able to extend the back and the side of the property.

Converting the loft –

You can extend upward. There are four main types of loft conversions that can be suited for bungalows. They are a dormer loft conversion, a hip to gable conversion, a Velux conversion, or a mansard loft conversion. Before you decide on what conversion you like you should get advice on the best type of conversion for your bungalow, depending on its existing structure.

Most bungalow loft conversions don’t require planning permission and it comes under permitted development. As long as they meet some key conditions:

  • Firtsly, if your bungalow is in a conservation area or an area of outstanding natural beauty then you will need to apply for planning permission.
  • Secondly, you’re not allowed to raise the height of the roof
  • On the main elevation facing the highway, you’re not allowed to construct dormers or anything that projects out of the roof.
  • No balconies or raised platforms are permitted
  • Finally, materials must be similar in appearance to the existing bungalow

One of the big attractions of converting a bungalow loft is that it is usually a lot cheaper than a conversion in a regular home. A simple conversion would likely cost around £20,000 to £25,000 for a standard bedroom. Whereas, if you want to add dormer windows and an En suite the prices could be around £40,00. The most a loft conversion could cost with everything included could be around £65,000.

A typical bungalow loft conversion can take about 6 to 8 weeks. Although if you have to apply for planning permission you would need to add a couple of months to the timescale.

Bungalow Extension –

You do not need planning permission for an extension if you build within your permitted development rights. Without planning permission, you can build up to 6 meters or 8 depending on if your house is detached. The average single-storey bungalow extension cost is around £1875 per meter square.

Homeowners in the UK could add up to £100,000 to the value of their homes by converting their property.

Credits: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/333759022387246589/

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Loft Conversion

Different types of bungalow loft conversions 

29th November 20220

Bungalows offer great loft conversion potential. They maximise the roof space and create plenty of possibilities. There are four main types of loft conversion that can be appropriate for bungalows. For example: a dormer, hip to gable, Velux, and mansard conversion. Here is a guide to figure out which one if best for your home.  

Types of loft conversions –  

Hip to gable –  

Firstly, a hip to gable loft conversion is where the sloping side of the roof is converted to a vertical gable wall to create more headspace. Bungalows which are semi-detached will often have a hipped roof that slopes at the side. This can be turned into a gable and you are left with a spacious loft and a great amount of head height.  

Benefits of a hip to gable conversion –  

The biggest benefit is the space that you will gain. All this additional room should increase the value of your home, especially if you are adding a bedroom or a bathroom. Also, the staircase from the lower level should be a continuation into the loft. So, this makes the entrance easier to access and uses less living space from the floor below.  

Price – 

Furthermore, the average cost of a hip to gable loft conversion is £40,000 – £50,000.  

Dormer –  

Secondly, dormers create a box shaped structure which is added onto a pitched roof, creating walls that sit at a 90-degree angle to the floor. Also, you can have a dormer in various positions on your roof and you can add more if you want a bigger room inside.  

Price –

So, the average cost of a dormer loft conversion is around – £35,000 – £55,000.  

Velux –  

Velux loft conversions are where the existing roof space is converted into living space without extending the roof structure. There are best for bungalows that already have enough head height. In addition, a roof light or Velux window would be added into the roof to make the new room bright.  

Price –  

Velux is usually the cheapest option because, it requires the least amount of work. Prices can start from £24,000.  

Mansard –  

Finally, a mansard can add a huge amount of space to your loft. A Mansard conversion has a flat roof with a slight fall to allow water to run into the gutter and the face of the Mansard slopes back 72 degrees to create the distinctive design. 

Image credit: Jeremy Phillips

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Conversions

A list of Design ideas for a bungalow conversion

7th July 20220

The bungalows are no longer reserve for the homeowners. There is a huge potential to transform them into something exciting. There is not just the potential for renovation but also great design opportunities. 

 Here is a list of design ideas to modernise your bungalow –  

Renovate the exterior of the bungalow 

When it comes to any property first impressions mean a lot, so don’t forget about the exterior. You can achieve a more modern look by simply adding a fresh coat of paint to the bungalow. Another way of making the exterior of your property stand out is by having a nice garden. Landscaping and adding garden furniture can make the home feel welcoming and create a good environment to be around.  

Adding a loft conversion  

You can also consider the loft conversion for your bungalow. However, you need to make sure that the head height is at least 2.3m. Furthermore, you may not need planning permission application as it comes under permitted development rights. A loft conversion is a great way to create some useable space. One of our favourite types is a dormer which is the cheapest and easy option. 

Adding an extension  

You can also consider adding a bungalow extension. However, the process is trickier to achieve from design and structure point of view. Although, bi-fold doors are the perfect way to create that indoor/ outdoor living and bring extra light in to your home. Also, if you like the modern style they add an amazing aesthetic to the house.

Focus on the social areas of the house  

As Schlüsseldienst Bremen states from its own experience the kitchen is worth investing in because it is one of the most important rooms in a home. You should keep it open and bright making sure all the natural light comes floods in. It is also important to pick a style of kitchen and work with that so everything matches.  

Image: https://www.houzz.co.uk/photos/bungalow-remodel-and-extension-wilmslow-contemporary-entrance-cheshire-phvw-vp~129151669
Advice Center

A Guide To Houses In Ashford Kent

23rd February 20220

Are you wanting to move or buy a house in Ashford? If you are here are different types of houses explained so you know what’s most suitable for you.  

Semi-Detached Houses In Ashford 

A semi-detached house is a property that shares at least one wall with an existing property. The homes that are connected are usually mirror images of each other. Semi-detached homes save space and are cheaper than detached homes. These homes are very popular and provide an adequate level of privacy. However, the average cost of a 3-bedroom semi-detached house in Ashford is around £300,000. The only really downside to a semi-detached home is that it is a possibility that you could hear your neighbours if they are really loud. 

Detached Houses In Ashford 

Detached homes are structures built by themselves. No shared structural walls or hearing your neighbours what so ever. They have a great deal of space and privacy. And, most have front and back gardens for you to enjoy. The average value of a 3-bedroom detached homes in Ashford are around about £375,000. Detached houses are generally more. 

Terraced Houses  

Terraced homes are one of the most common and popular homes in the United Kingdom. They save a lot of space in the community. However, parking your car can be a nightmare at the front of your home. Terraced homes have a wall on each side connected to another home, essentially making a row of houses. The average value of a 3-bedroom terraced house in Ashford is £325,000. 

Flats  

Flats are one of the most known about homes in England. These homes are usually given to people that live alone or have a small family. Flats are often being offered as a series within a single building. But, flats are known for their space-saving qualities. The average value of flats in Ashford are around £200,000. There are many different types of flats as well such as, converted, split-level and studio flats.

Bungalows In Ashford  

Bungalows are single-storey detached homes. The difference between a bungalow and detached home is that a bungalow is a lot smaller with usually no stairs. These homes are usually very small having a small number of rooms However, you may have an attic. This home is quite popular to older people as it is small. however, it has no stairs to get up. The average value for a 3-bedroom bungalow in Ashford is around £300,000. 

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Advice Center

Building a bungalow: the pros and cons

21st January 20220

In the UK bungalows are one of the most sought-after types of home, but they seem to be the most unavailable. Many homeowners have said that this type of property is the ideal place to live. This is why many home buyers are thinking of building a bungalow themselves.  

Designing a bungalow – 

When building any home making sure that it gets a load of daylight is a major priority to many people. Bungalows are usually wide, so you need to make sure that sunlight reaches nearly everywhere on the property. 

 A way to make sure that you can get a lot of light and to make your space more modern is by making an open plan bungalow. An open-plan area is great for bungalows because it can make the space feel bigger and airier.  

A great feature to add to the design of your project is a lot of glazing. You could have tall vaulted ceilings and add a number of skylights to make the place look more luxurious. Installing bi-fold doors is also a great thing to think about when designing a home. They provide the sense of bringing the outside in and are a great choice if you like to entertain because they open up the area.  

Pros and cons of building a bungalow –  

Pros –  

  • Space and privacy  

Bungalows generally come with more space because they are wider than a traditional house. This means that their plot is bigger and there is more space between neighbours, so you end up getting more privacy. Having other bungalows next door to you often means that there will also be fewer people overlooking your property.  

  • Great for all types of people  

One of the biggest pros of a bungalow is that they are suitable for everyone. Because there are no stairs this property is great for the disabled, the elderly, and children. Without a second floor, it is easier for people to get around their homes and do things independently.  

  • Less maintenance  

A reason why older people go for bungalows is that they are a lot less maintenance than owning a larger home. It is smaller property meaning it would be easier to clean.   

Cons –  

  • High demand, low supply  

Bungalows are hugely popular but there are fewer and fewer being built.   

  • Lack of sleeping separation  

A thing that some buyers dislike is that there is a lack of separation between the living areas and the bedrooms. This can be an issue for those who are sleeping and those who are awake making noise.  

  • Security worries  

Most people sleep with their windows open, but this can cause security worries for those living in a bungalow. It may be best to install a security system if you’re thinking of building a bungalow.   

How much do bungalows cost to build?  

Bungalows then be more expensive to build and they cost more per square foot than two-storey dwellings with the same number of bedrooms. The total average cost of building a bungalow can range anywhere between £181,000 and £552,000. The cost of a bungalow is heavily influenced by land costs and the size of the plot.  

Architecture & Building

All there is to know before moving into a bungalow

14th January 20220

What is a bungalow?  

A bungalow is a one-storey house, cottage, or cabin. Bungalows are usually small in terms of square footage, but it’s not uncommon to see large bungalows. They were originally designed to provide affordable, modern housing. 

Characteristics of a bungalow –  

Bungalows are great homes for people with disabilities and the elderly because they are small and easy to maintain. Because there is only one storey, they tend to be more cost-effective compared to a typical home. The gas and the electric costs would end up being lower because it is a smaller property.  

Because bungalows are single storey homes and it is known that either elderly or the disabled usually live in them, the property can fall victim to break-ins. Therefore, it is a good idea to invest in some security cameras for your home.  

Advantages and disadvantages –  

Advantages – 

There are many benefits to living in a bungalow and they include:  

  • The potential for garden access from bedrooms  
  • Bright, airy, open plan layout 
  • A good connection with the outdoors  
  • No stairs to factor in the layout 
  • Can have vaulted ceilings and skylights in the main living areas.  
  • Can offer more privacy 

Disadvantages –  

  • Not enough room separation. Since all of the rooms are located on the same floor, creating separation between living spaces and bedrooms can be difficult.  
  • Lack of security  
  • Size can be an issue.  

How much do bungalows cost in the Uk?  

The cost of building a bungalow in the UK depends on the size and complexity of the structure. In total, the average cost of building a bungalow can range anywhere between £181,000 and £552,000. This is because the cost of a bungalow is influenced by land costs and the size of the plot.  

How long does it to build a bungalow?  

The time it takes to build all depends on the size of the house and the specifications of the design. But on average it should take between 4 and 5 ½ months to build a bungalow. However, this time could extend it any complications occur.  

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House Extension

The informative basics to a Chalet/ dormer Bungalow

30th November 20210

What is a Chalet bungalow?  

A chalet bungalow is a type of bungalow house that has a small living space on the second floor or loft. A bungalow is generally considered a one-storey structure that is detached from other structures. The chalet bungalow is still essentially a bungalow because it matches the criteria that comprise a bungalow-style home.   

However, people may say that they are really one and a half storeys and not bungalows. They are referred to in British a “chalet bungalows” or “dormer bungalows” 

History of the bungalow –  

The term ‘bungalow’ originated in the Bengali region of India, meaning ‘house in the Bengal style’. These houses were traditionally small, of one storey and detached, and had a wide veranda. The bungalows were built in India for English sailors of the East Indian company. The bungalow became known in Britain, and then America, where it had high status. 

Later in the 1960s, the form evolved into a chalet bungalow with bedrooms in the roof space, with dormers.  

Things you need to bear in mind before you convert –  

Before you start converting your bungalow there are a few things you should consider. Firstly, you need to make sure that you have enough room to install a staircase to access the floor above.   

Another thing to consider is that when converting a property into a chalet, it’s essential that there is plumbing on the new floor. This is so you will be able to have heating and water if you are creating a bathroom.  

How much does it cost to build a chalet/ dormer bungalow in the UK?  

As dormer conversions are relatively straightforward to add to a home, they are the cheaper type of conversion. They would typically cost around £31,000 – £58,000 depending on the size of the conversion and other factors. 

How long do they take to build?  

Most dormer/ chalet extensions can be completed within as little as 6 – 8 weeks. Although, you should keep in mind that the design and planning process can take longer than the build itself.  

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