How to plan a home extension

Father with his two daughters standing in their bright kitchen with VELUX roof windows

Running out of space at home? Before you start scrolling property websites to find somewhere new, consider building an extension. It’s often the most cost and time-effective option, especially if you love living in your current neighbourhood. You can create more space, improve the quality of life for your family and boost your property’s value, without the hassle of a big move. There’s a lot to think about to make sure you end up with a space that ticks all the boxes for your growing family, so read on for our guide to planning a home extension.

Identify your vision

A successful home extension starts with a clear vision. You know you need more space, but what do you need that space to do? What works in existing rooms and what doesn’t? What problems does the extension need to solve? Perhaps you’re dreaming of an open-plan kitchen and living room for big family gatherings, desperate for a utility room or a playroom for the kids, or want a multi-functional space that can handle everything from home working to overnight guests. Get clear on your needs before you meet with an architect or builder so they can design a plan that meets your needs.

Key takeaways

Consider daylight at the design stage - roof windows will make sure the extended space is filled with natural light.
Thoroughly research and vet all contractors to make sure they will bring your vision to life. Personal recommendations are gold!
Investigate planning permission and building regulations to make sure your plans are compliant.

Get inspired

This is the time to dream big and make a wish list. Have fun diving into all things extensions in home magazines, renovation shows and on Instagram and Pinterest to get ideas and a feel for your style and taste. Visit friends who’ve done extensions to get a tour and their best tips for renovation success.

Create a budget

A carefully balanced budget will help make sure you end up with an extension that ticks all the boxes without costs spiralling. Take your wishlist and figure out what’s a must-have versus a nice-to-have feature. Now do costings for everything from a builder, architect, materials, planning fees and decoration - you may need to adjust your wishlist after this task! Don’t forget to allow for a contingency fund too. Get the lowdown on how to budget for a home extension in this article.

"A successful home extension starts with a clear vision. You know you need more space, but what do you need that space to do? What problems does the extension need to solve?"