Tag: Extension

Extensions

The Ultimate Guide To The Kitchen Extension Of Your Dreams

11th October 20210

A kitchen extension is a project that’s at the top of many homeowners’ Wishlists. Gaining more space, creating room for dining as well as preparing food, achieving a more sociable arrangement are all great reasons to plan a brand-new kitchen.  

For many people adding an extension will transform life at home. Creating an open-plan space can bring families together. The kitchen is usually the heart of the home, the room you spend the most time in – cooking, eating, socialising, working, and relaxing. 

How to plan an extension – 

The key to creating the perfect kitchen is getting the space and the layout right first. There is no point in spending money on an extension that is too small or one that is too big and looks out of place.  

The first thing you should do is write a list of all the features you wish to add to the space, for example 

 kitchen extension desires  

  • Island unit 
  • Bi-fold doors 
  • Breakfast bar 
  • Outdoor dining area 
  • Separate utility room 

Once you have made the list you should then give all of these ideas to the architect and they can incorporate them into the design.  

Where to put the extension – 

You need to find the area that is most beneficial for an extension. Luckily, there are a lot of options when it comes to extending your kitchen. For this type of project rear and side, extensions are the most common because people like to incorporate indoor-outdoor living with the garden.  

Small extensions to a house may not need planning permission if they fall within the definition of permitted development. However, if it’s a larger extension they will always need planning permission. And if your house is a listed building, to make alterations you always require listed building consent. 

Anyway, if you are unsure of where to have your extension or don’t know what permission you need, talk to your architects and they will advise you.  

The next step is to find a good architect. You will need plans and construction drawings for the builders, and to show compliance with building regulations. Architects can inspire you with designs you may not have considered.  

How long will a kitchen extension take? 

Depending on the project and how bespoke you want it, you can expect a small kitchen extension to take between 10-12 weeks. And a large kitchen extension could take up to 6 months. However, each project is different and these timings do not include the planning and design stages.  

Kitchen extension cost-  

Prices will vary depending on the work you want to do. Although here’s a guide: 

  • Building work: between £1,200-£3,00 per m2 and upwards 
  • New kitchen: £20-£200 per m2  
  • Painting and tiling the walls: will cost between £50-£100 per m2 if you use a contractor 
  • Flooring: £25-£100 per m2  
  • Building regulation costs, depends on what work is involved and the area of the proposed project. Expect it pay upwards of £200.  

Maximise light  

Adding an extension could possibly displace some of the daylight that would normally reach your original room, so you should consider supplementing it. Skylights and bifold doors are a good modern way to light up the room. If a skylight or new doors are not in your plans, you could add mood lighting to your kitchen, which will ensure adequate illumination in the evenings.  

As your kitchen-diner will be on display and the heart of the home getting the details right is essential. You should choose materials and accessories that help the room work as one.  

An Industrial Style Kitchen Extension By Burlanes - Industrial - Kitchen - London - by burlanes interiors | Houzz UK

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Architecture & Building

The Need To Know Differences Between A Conservatory And An Orangery

23rd September 20210

One of the most common questions asked when it comes to a conservatory is, what is the difference between a conservatory and an orangery.  

What Is An Orangery?  

An orangery is a brick structure with large windows and a flat roof with a glass lantern.  

They often have the distinctive look of: 

  • Firstly, large tall windows on one side 
  • Stone or brick buildt 
  • A flat roof with a central glass lantern 
  • A heating source such as a stove 
  • Wooden shutters on the windows to retain heat at night 

History Of  The Orangery  

The orangery originated from the renaissance gardens of Italy when glass-making technology was upgrading and clear glass was being produced. Typically orangeries were constructed with base and pillars made of brick or stone, with large panes of glass to let in light and warmth. Because of this, their main function was providing delicate, exotic plants with shelter and protection during the winter. 

 However, they were not affordable to everyone. Being made of large amounts of expensive glass, and as homes to exotic plants. The orangery was found in the gardens of wealthy fashionable residences. And they soon became a symbol of wealth.  

Today, orangeries are used less for wintering tropical plants and more for additional living space. However, they retain the classic features such as a solid base and expanses of glass.   

Orangeries Southampton | Orangery Prices Southampton
Orangery

What Is A Conservatory?  

A conservatory is a glass structure with a brick base and a pitched glazed roof. 

What is classed as a conservatory: 

  • Firstly, a fully glazed structure with low brick base 
  • The roof is more than 75% glass 
  • The wall must be at least 50% glass  
  • The structure is built against the wall of a house with a closing door or window. 
  • Must have standalone heating source separate from the main house.  

History Of The Conservatory  

Conservatories became popular in the 19th century. In 1832, the introduction of sheet glass enabled the development of a fully glazed structure. And as the English fell in love with glass buildings they began to appear in most cities. Just like orangeries, conservatory were standalone structures of great size that housed a collection of exotic, rear plants and sometimes birds and animals.  

 Once the world wars ended the building of glass structures began again. Sunrooms were the first glazed rooms to be built on an ordinary house. A basic structure is attached to the house to take advantage of sun warmth and views from the house. However, they would be very cold when the sun wasn’t shining.  

The Different Types of Conservatories | MyGlazing.com
Conservatory

Planning Permission –  

For planning permission purposes, orangeries are considered single-storey extensions. Permitted development rights offer people a lot of possibilities to extend their property without a full planning application. And the rights for a single-storey extension are really generous and allow a reasonable-sized extension. In fact, conservatories also have to follow the same guidelines.  

Does A Conservatory Or An Orangery Add Value To Your Property? 

The majority of homes improvements should add value to your home if it’s done at a high standard. A conservatory can add between 5-12% to the value of the property. Whilst an orangery can add ass much as an extension to the property depending on the finish.  

However, when deciding if you want to add a conservatory or an orangery you need to think about what would be the best fit for your current house.  

Although, the two are very similar there are a lot of questions you need to ask yourself to decide the perfect addition to your home. With this in mind, orangeries do tend to be a bit more expensive than a conservatory, but it is important to consider long-term how you will use the space.   

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Extensions, House Extension

An Informative Step By Step Guide To An Extension

16th September 20210

An extension to your home can be an extremely beneficial investment, especially for those that require more space but don’t want to move to another property. And creating additional living space can add a lot of value to your home.    

Step 1 – getting planning permission –  

The first step to creating an extension is confirming and creating an idea for your project. And then once you have decided on the type and style of the extension you require, you must consider whether or not you are permitted to build.  When it comes to extensions either planning permission will be required, or your plan will be accepted following the rules for permitted development.  What is planning permission? Planning permission is the acceptance by the local authority to go ahead with the requested construction plans of a building.    

Step 2 – permitted development rights –  

Permitted development rights are the entitlement to modify a property without the requirement of applying for planning permission. And generally, extensions to a house are covered by permitted development rights.  This is because you need to make sure the extension is within two meters of a boundary maximum eaves height should be no higher than three meters to be permitted development.  

Step 3 – check your budget –  

When it comes to an extension you need to determine a realistic brief that considers the finances of the project and the length of the construction.  You also need to include fees for the architects and designers. This is because their advice can be invaluable, especially when it comes to getting permission.   

Step 4 – think of the design of your extension –  

It is important that you think thoroughly about the design of the extension. You need to think of how the extension will connect to the house. And for example, if you would like to add on the kitchen would you like it to be exposed to the morning sun, or do you prefer a sunset. So, to help with putting your design on paper, it is a good idea to hire an architect.  

Step 5 – what to be aware of when building an extension –  

Listed buildings and conservation areas may have more specific permitted development rights, compared to normal ones. And you should search for expert guidance when it comes to planning. 

Step 6 – applying to a building regulations officer –  

Once that it is confirmed your extension doesn’t need planning permission or if the plans have been accepted it will need to be approved by a building regs officer.  Drawings will then need to be created by an architect and be submitted.  

Step 7 – party wall act –  

The party wall act ensures that the extension doesn’t exceed the boundary of the neighbor’s property. And the neighbors need to be informed of any proposed work in advance.  A party wall surveyor is responsible for producing a party wall award. This will protect you if any unfortunate circumstances where disputes may arise.  

Step 8 – let the Council know –  

Your local Council has to be informed about the extension plans.  

Step 9 – contact professionals –  

The sooner you get in touch the better it will be for you. You should contact planners, contractors, and builders as soon as possible, to have a clear idea of the scale of the project.  

Step 10 – check insurance –  

You should check whether your house insurance is still valid during construction and if it can be extended to site insurance during the works. You should also check the workers’ insurance to see if it is necessary for your site.  

Step 11 – start building  

An extension in the works

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Advice Center, House Renovation

The best guide to building in a conservation area

14th September 20210

What is a conservation area?  

A conservation area is an area of special architectural or historic interest, the character of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance. And in other words, the features that make it unique. So conservation areas protect all the natural resources that are critical to people on earth. The protected areas provide for life’s essentials.  

To build a property and/or make adjustments to your property on a conservation area you would need a wildlife assessment check. This assessment is a free online tool that identifies protected or priority wildlife species in the location where proposed works take place.  

The trees are automatically protected from being cut down. This is because the trees may contribute to the special character of the conservation area.  

You can check with your local planning authority to see if your proposed work is in the area. And planning authorities designate the conservation areas.  

Generally, you need planning permission for relevant demolition and alterations to the house in a conservation area to do the following:  

Demolition –  

  • Demolish a building with a volume of 115 cubic meters or more. 
  • To demolish any gate, fence, wall or other means of enclosure with: A height of one meter or more if next to a motorway, footpath, waterway or open space. And a height of two meters or more elsewhere.  

Alterations to the house –  

  • Any type of extension. 
  • Additions, alterations or extension to roofs. 
  • Cladding any part of the house with stone, render, timber, and another material. 
  • The construction of buildings (sheds) containers (tanks) and enclosures (swimming pools)  
  • The installation of chimneys, flues and vents on the main elevation of a house. 
  • Installation of satellite dishes or antennae on a chimney, wall or roof slope.  

Alterations to windows and doors, and painting the outside of the house do not require planning permission.  

It might be more expensive to have work done in a conservation area. This is because there are a lot of restrictions, especially on materials. And paperwork has to be completed 

A conservation area is likely to boost the value of your home, due to the fact that that the neighborhood is attractive and will remain so.  

Buying in a Conservation Area
Houses in a conservation area

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Design and insperation, Extensions

The complete guide to annexes and a granny annexe

10th September 20210

What is an annexe?   

A self-contained unit is more commonly called an annexe or a granny flat. It is generally a building or a part of a building that is used as separate living accommodation. And they may share common services and an entrance with the main house.  

A garden annexe can transform a family’s life. Because by giving the person living in the building closeness to their loved ones. Whilst still maintaining the privacy of having their own space. With a granny annexe, you can avoid costly care homes or the guilt and worry experienced when an unwell or elderly relative lives alone. 

A garden annexe isn’t a permanent residence and doesn’t usually require planning permission. A granny flat is intended to be someone’s home. If the building is being used for habitation with all of the main services. Such as a kitchen or kitchenette, bathroom and bedroom, this would need either householder applications or the caravan act. Therefore, requires permission from the local authority, though this can be via a normal planning application.  

How much does it cost to build an annexe?  

Typically, the average cost to build an annexe is around £20,000. However, the price can vary depending on the size and the quality of the project. Most annexes have between 48 – 75 square meters of living space. Many people like the idea of an annexe because some estimates reckon that they can add as much as 20-30% to the value of the property.  

How long do they take to build?  

Annexes you build on-site typically take 7-14 weeks depending on the size and the specification, but you also need to allow extra time for manufacturing. And build off-site annexes usually take 10 weeks to manufacture, then 4 days or less to deliver on-site.   

Many people also like to have annexes because they are allowed to rent them out. When you rent your property, it would fall under the category of a lodger rather than an assured shorthold tenancy. And also, because annexes will be exempt from paying council tax. Only if it is separately banded for council tax but forms part of another property and a dependant relative is living in it as their main or only home.  

large Granny Annexe is a luxurious self contained home | Architecture, House, House design
An annexe/ granny annexe.

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