House extensions are a popular way to increase living space and improve the functionality and aesthetics of an existing house. They can take many forms, from a single room to a multi-story addition. This mini blog will explore the advantages of single-story and double-storey house extensions, and provide recommendations on the best type of extension for different circumstances.
Single storey extensions are a great way to add extra space to your home without the expense and hassle of moving house. They offer a range of benefits, including cost-effective alternative, ease of construction, and a greater connection to the outdoors. In this article, we will explore the pros of single-storey house extensions, explain what they are and provide examples of popular single-storey house extensions.
Advantages of Single-Storey House Extensions
What is a Single-Storey House Extension?
A single-storey house extension is an additional room or rooms that are built on the ground floor of an existing area. They are typically built at the rear of the property but can also be built as side and rear extensions. Single storey extensions are a popular way to add extra space to a property, and they can be used for a variety of purposes, such as a kitchen extension, living room extension, or additional bedroom.
Pros of Single-Storey House Extensions
Cost-Effective
One of the main advantages of a single-storey house extension is that it is a cost-effective way to add extra space to your home. Moving house can be expensive, and a house extension can be a much cheaper alternative. The cost of a single-storey house extension will vary depending on a number of factors, such as the size of the extension, the materials used, and the complexity of the build. However, as a general rule, a single-storey house extension will cost less than moving to a larger property.
Ease of Construction
Another advantage of a single-storey house extension is that they are relatively easy to construct. As the extension is being built on the ground floor, there is no need for scaffolding or complex building work. This means that the construction can be completed much quicker than a multi-storey extension prior approval process . A single-storey extension can typically be completed within a few weeks, whereas a multi-storey extension can take several months.
Greater Connection to the Outdoors
A single-storey house extension can also offer a greater connection to the outdoors. By adding large sliding doors or bi-fold doors to the extension, you can create a seamless transition between your indoor and outdoor spaces. This can help bring more natural light into your home and make your open-plan living space feel more open and airy.
Single-Storey Extension Ideas
Conservatories
Conservatories are a popular type of single storey extensions. They are typically made from glass and offer a great way to bring natural light into your home. Conservatories can be used for a variety of purposes, such as a living room, dining room, or home office.
Sunrooms
Sunrooms are another popular type of single storey extensions. They are typically made from brick or timber and offer a great way to enjoy the outdoors all year round. Sunrooms can be used for a variety of purposes, such as a playroom, home gym, or additional living space.
Orangeries
Orangeries are a more substantial type of single-storey house extension. They are typically made from brick or stone and feature a glass roof. Orangeries are a great way to add most space to your home and create a connection to your garden. They can be used for a variety of purposes, such as a dining room, home office, or additional living space.
Advantages of Double-Storey House Extensions
A double-storey house extension is a project where you add a second floor to your existing property. It is one of the most popular home improvement projects in the UK, as it can provide homeowners with more space and increased property value. In this article, we will discuss the pros of double-storey house extensions and provide examples of popular double-storey house extensions.
What is a Double-Storey House Extension?
A double-storey house extension is a project where you add an extra floor to your existing property. The project can be completed by either adding an extension onto the existing house or converting the loft space. The aim of the project is to provide more space in your home, without having to move to a new property.
Pros of Double-Storey House Extensions
Increased Space
The primary advantage of a double-storey house extension is that it provides you with more space. You can create additional bedrooms, bathrooms, and conservation area, providing you with additional space for your family to live, work, and play.
Greater Property Value
A double-storey house extension can add significant value to your property. This is because it provides you with more living space, making your property more desirable to potential buyers. As a result, you can enjoy a significant return on investment if you decide to sell your property in the future.
Improved Functionality
A double-storey house extension can also improve the functionality of your property. You can create a more practical layout, with more additional space for storage, hobbies, and relaxation. This can improve your quality of life and make your home more enjoyable to live in.
Popular Double-Storey House Extensions Ideas
Loft Conversions
Loft conversions are a popular double-storey house extension project, as they can create a new space out of an existing attic. Loft conversions are a cost-effective way to add more space to your property, and they can provide you with stunning views of your local area.
Two-Storey Side Returns
Two-storey side returns are an extension project where you extend your property to the side, adding a second floor on top of the extension. This is a great option if you have limited garden space, as it does not take up any additional outdoor area.
Rear and Side Extension
Side and rear extensions are a popular choice for homeowners who want to create an open plan space. This type of extension can help to create a natural flow between the different living areas in your home, making it more enjoyable to live in.
Wraparound Extensions
Wraparound extensions are a double-storey house extension project where you extend your property around the entire ground floor. This type of extension can completely transform your home, creating a more spacious and more light-filled space.
Side Return Extension
Side extensions are a double-storey house extension project where you extend your property to the rear, creating a square metre or L-shaped footprint. This type of extension is ideal if you want to create a more open plan space, with natural light and a better flow between the different living areas.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Single-Storey and Double-Storey House Extensions
When you need additional space in your home, one of the most important decisions to make is whether to choose a single-storey or double-storey house extension. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and the decision ultimately depends on your budget, space requirements, and personal preferences. Here are some factors to consider when choosing between a single-storey and double-storey house extension.
Cost
Single-storey extensions are generally less expensive than double-storey extensions. This is because they require less building materials, labour and design work. On the other hand, double-storey extensions require more building materials and may need additional work, such as party wall agreements, which can increase the extension cost. However, the overall cost will depend on the size of the extension, building control and materials used, and the complexity of the project.
Space requirements
Double-storey extensions offer more space than single-storey extensions. If you need more than one extra room, a double-storey extension may be the best option. However, if you only need one extra room, a single-storey extension may be sufficient.
Planning permission
Single-storey extensions are often covered by permitted lawful development rights, which means you don’t need to apply for planning permission. Double-storey extensions, on the other hand, usually require planning permission. It’s important to check with your local planning authority before starting any building project.
Natural light:
Single-storey extensions are usually designed with more emphasis on natural light. A flat roof with skylights or sliding doors can provide plenty of natural light, while a double-storey extension may require more artificial lighting.
Living space
A single-storey extension can be built to create a more open plan space, while a double-storey extension can offer separate living areas for different activities.
Building regulations: Both single-storey and double-storey extensions must comply with building regulations, which govern matters such as safety, insulation, and energy efficiency.
Existing house
The design of the extension should complement the existing property, rather than look like a separate entity. A single-storey extension may be easier to integrate into the overall look of the house, while a double-storey extension could completely transform the look of the house.
Comparison of the Advantages and Disadvantages of Single-Storey and Double-Storey House Extensions
When looking to increase the living space of a home, homeowners may consider either a single-story or double-story house extension. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and the final decision depends on various factors such as budget, local zoning laws, and personal preferences. Here’s a comparison of the benefits and drawbacks of both single- and double-story house extensions.
Single-Storey House Extension
Affordability
A single-story house extension is usually more affordable than a double-story house extension. This is because it requires less construction work, fewer materials, and a smaller foundation.
More Space
A single-story house extension provides additional living spaces on the ground floor, which can be used for various purposes such as a family room, dining room, or home office.
Easier Planning Permission
In many cases, obtaining planning permission for a single-story house extension is easier than a double-story house extension. This is because single-story extensions usually do not impact the privacy of neighbors or the surrounding area.
Despite the benefits of a single-story house extension, there are some drawbacks to consider:
- Limited Space: A single-story basic extension may not provide enough living spaces for growing families or those who require extra bedrooms or bathrooms.
- Lack of Privacy: A single-story extension may not provide as much privacy as a double-story extension, especially if the surrounding homes have higher elevations.
Double-Storey House Extension
A double-storey house extension involves adding a second floor to a home above the existing floor. Here are some advantages of a double-story house extension:
More Space
A double-story house extension provides additional living space on both the ground floor and the first floor. This extra space can be used for extra bedrooms, bathrooms, or a home gym.
Increased Property Value
A double-story house extension can increase the value of a home significantly. This is because it provides more living spaces, making it more attractive to potential buyers.
Better Views
A double-story house extension can provide better views of the surrounding area, especially if the property is situated in an elevated position.
Despite the benefits of a double-story house extension, there are some drawbacks to consider:
- Higher Cost: A double-storey house extension is usually more expensive than a single-story house extension due to the increased amount of construction work, materials, and labor required.
- Planning Permission: Obtaining planning permission for a double-storey house extension can be more difficult than a single-storey extension. This is because it can impact the privacy of neighbors as well as the overall appearance of the surrounding area.
Over all, if you’re considering adding new extension to your existing home, it’s important to work with a project manager and a structural engineer to ensure that the planned extension is safe and structurally sound. This will also ensure that the extension meets building control and planning application requirements.
Here are some resources to provide a range of perspectives and advice on the pros and cons of both single- and double-story house extensions, as well as tips for planning and executing a successful extension project.
- Homebuilding & Renovating “Single-storey vs double-storey extensions: Which is best for you?
- Real Homes “Single-storey vs double-storey extensions: what’s the huge difference?”
- House Beautiful“Single-storey vs double-storey extensions: which is right for you?
- The Spruce“Single-Story vs. Two-Story Home Additions”
- Build It “Single-storey vs double-storey extensions: which is right for you?”