A side return is the narrow strip of land that runs alongside the ground floor of a property. It’s often a dumping ground for bins, bikes, and outdoor equipment. Extending into this space is what is known as a side return extension.
When looking at a property from the outside, it could seem like you will just gain a few extra feet inside, but it can significantly alter the interior design and sense of space in a home. If the design is done well, you should be able to enjoy a larger, brighter, and more productive living environment. An architect can offer suggestions on how to maximize this small area.
Benefits
- House-side extensions are a terrific method to utilize the empty side space of your home rather than encroaching on your yard as is the case with a rear extension.
- Side extensions play a significant role in increasing natural light even though they are often tiny. You might get a room that is light and airy with the appropriate layout.
- Side additions can increase the value of your house if they are built appropriately.
- Your living space will have a better indoor-outdoor connection with a decent side return extension.
- Extensions for side returns are often shorter than those for other sorts of extensions. They can be built more quickly and for less money as a result.
Design choice and tips
One of the most fun things about getting any house extension is thinking about how you’re going to lay it out, use it, and enjoy it when the work is complete.
Kitchen side extension: Having a larger kitchen is always wonderful. You may add new features, use the extra space to prepare more food for larger, family meals, and convert it into a kitchen/dining area for quick or informal meals. In fact, a lot of people who have side extensions utilize them for kitchens because they like the extra space and alternatives they get.
Side extension for a living room: this is a fantastic way to make your home more pleasant. You can use it for socializing and spending more time with your family and friends, and you can put a glass roof in to give you extra sunlight in the summer months… and to create the right atmosphere on a stormy night to watch a scary film.
Side extension for a utility room: a valuable solution when you need extra space for your washing machine and/or maybe put in a second shower. Utility rooms are great value and useful for anyone who likes working in the garden. It is essential that you consult with your architect to assess if extra pipes or electricity are needed.
Some considerations are also required for other aspects like the materials to be used and the roof type.
As for the first element, you can both use something similar to the material that’s on your existing building, or you can find something new. The first option is more likely to qualify for permitted development, which means you won’t need to get planning permission.
There are two roof configurations available: flat and sloped. Flat roofs cover the addition evenly, with neither side being notably taller nor lower than the other. They are less expensive and simpler to erect, but they are occasionally less weatherproof and – if not well made – likely to endure less time. Rain and snow can slide off much more readily since the side extension’s pitched roof is sloped with the higher side attached to the original structure. Pitched roofs cost more, but they’re frequently more weatherproof and long-lasting, and they’ll allow you a bit more area to either make the expansion feel airy or use the space as a tiny attic. Side extension with skylights. Last but not least, skylights are compatible with both flat and pitched roofs, and make the side extension brighter and taking advantage of the natural light.
Rules for home-side extensions
Side extensions are considered authorized development, so as long as you follow the rules, you can build a house extension without requesting full planning approval.
A side extension is allowable as part of permitted development if it is no taller than 4m and no wider than the original structure. Additionally, you must make sure that your extension’s eaves do not extend higher than 3 meters from the boundary.
The best method to examine your alternatives is to talk with a planning specialist given the intricate details of both permitted development and complete planning applications.
What is the price of a house-side extension?
The cost per square meter for a side return extension varies according to the same criteria as above. Outside London, the cost is typically between £1,500 – £2,400 per square meter and in London, it can be as expensive as £4,500 per square meter.
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