Create More Living Space with EA’s Expert Double Storey Extension Services
Did you know that a rear double-storey extension, in particular, can be a straightforward extension choice than a single-storey extension? In addition, a double-storey extension in fact will cost less than a single storey extension per square metre. In this article, discover Extension Architecture’s expertise with double-storey extensions and how as specialists, we can add maximum value to your existing space.
In Brief
- Double-storey extensions lower your cost per square metre when compared to single-storey extensions as they add space upwards.
- Property value can increase up to 25% with double-storey extensions.
- Homeowners can enjoy both significant space expansion along with maximised kerb appeal.
- Planning permission can be intricate and involve several considerations.
- Specialist firms such as Extension Architecture can deliver true justice by maximising space whilst delivering cost-efficient solutions.
- Planning to double-up your existing space? Reach out to our experts and avail a free quotation.
As house prices continue to escalate, moving out to build new, or purchase a new house has become a rare occurrence in the UK, and especially in London. But on the other hand, everyone does like to maximise their existing living space without spending a fortune.
Cost is arguably the most evident of all concerns for homeowners when considering expanding a significant footprint of their existing space. Interestingly, if there is one certainty with double-storey extensions, it is the fact that they will cost you less than a single storey extension when considered per square metre.
Not only that, while they can substantially increase your property value, they also offer more opportunities for personalised and bespoke outcomes.
Unlock Extra Space with EA’s Double Storey Extension Solutions
Extension Architecture since more than a decade have been one of the most desirable extension specialists especially across London and beyond. We bring together architectural design, planning expertise, and construction excellence to deliver the most fascinating double-storey extensions that exude beauty and function at the same time.
Why Double Storey Extensions?
Double-storey extensions primarily extend upwards instead of outwards, which is where the cost factor subsides. This is because you are not considering spending on an extra parcel of your land to maximise the space and yet are creating valuable space within the original portion. By this, you are saving substantial cost whilst making efficient use
Extension Architecture’s Expertise with Double Storey Extensions
At Extension Architecture, we offer a comprehensive range of double-storey extension solutions to unlock additional space within the built area of your property. For example, you can build a fully functional living space on the ground floor like that of an open plan family area or an enlarged kitchen, and in addition, enjoy substantial space on the first floor in the form of a bedroom or a home office.
Below is the range of solutions we offer with double-storey extensions –
1. Double Storey Rear Extension
Our double-storey rear extensions are often characterised by maximising space for a comfortable living experience on the ground floor and creating value-boosting spaces on the first floor.
For example, on the ground floor, our approach would be to create an open plan family area, potentially a kitchen with an island, and looking upon them are skylights from the roof for a light-filled social hub. In addition to this, we also consider the possibility of utilising any underused space by building a boot room, a wet room, or a utility room, and thereby building distinct areas within an open plan layout.
On the first floor, to make it a more practical space, we consider the option of designing a home office, a bedroom with an ensuite, or a guest room. If the space allows, we also consider creating a Juliet balcony or a picture window to add more aesthetics to the floor.
More suitable for semi-detached and detached properties.
2. Double Storey Side Extension
With side extensions, there is more usable space to the side of the ground floor, which offers the flexibility to expand the kitchen space or fit in a utility room or a play area. We often think of open plan layouts that include separation zones through glass doors or divider walls, and then extending to the sides accordingly.
On the first floor, a functional space such as a home office, a master bedroom suite, or a guest room would be ideal to make the best practical use of the space.
In addition, because side extensions can potentially block incoming light, we consider options to install skylights, rooflights, or glazing options to enhance the aura inside the space.
More suitable for semi-detached and detached properties, and in some case for terraced houses.
3. Double Storey Wraparound Extension
A double-storey wrap around extension offers substantial space addition as it merges a side return and a rear extension across the two floors. This helps homeowners unlock potential underused spaces (likely side alleys on both floors).
4. Over-Structure Extensions
We provide solutions to those areas where the homeowner doesn’t intend to compromise on the garden space or their backyard. We cater by building an additional extension on top of an existing structure, like a single-storey extension, a garage, or any standalone structure. By this, we avoid the pain of eating up additional ground area or a foundation.
5. Front Extensions
Although these are not common when compared to rear or side return extensions, they are usually characterised by building two storeys from the front facade of a house.
Front extensions are best suited for detached homes or for properties that are at built more towards the corner. Options such as an expanded front porch or a boot room can be considered on the ground floor, while the upper floor can be characterised by aesthetic designs to enhance the decor of the space and impact the kerb appeal of the property.
In addition to the above, we also specialise in dormer extensions, basement extensions, timber frame extensions, and custom-built extension integrations.
Our approach to two storey extensions involves a detailed evaluation of your property’s structure, your needs, your goals, and the neighbouring impact of the construction.
The Benefits of a 2-Storey Extension for Your Home
Whether you’re looking to increase functionality, prepare your home for the future, or add value, a two-storey extension offers homeowners a smart and impactful way to expand their living space.
Here are the benefits of 2-storey extensions –
- Doubling Space without Sacrificing Extra Footage
- Boosts Property Value
A well-designed double-storey extension can boost property value by up to 25%.
- Cost-effective Extensions
Although the total cost is higher, because a double-storey extension involves spaces of foundations and roof that are shared across two floors, the cost of building them per square metre becomes relatively cheaper.
- Customised Design
Double-storey extensions offer more scope to create zoned areas, open up walls, reposition or add functional amenities such as staircases, en-suites etc.
- Build a Home for the Ages
- Enhanced and Light-filled Space
Especially when you are building side return or wraparound extensions, they offer great potential for increased natural light inflow. Strategically placed glazed windows and bifold doors will instantly bring in ample natural light into your space.
Double-storey extensions, when designed by specialists, can transform your property into a more liveable, beautiful, and future-ready space.
Key Considerations: Planning Permissions and Budgeting
Planning permissions for double-storey extensions tend to be more complex than single-storey extensions for a number of reasons, including impact on neighbours, street views, and the design and scale of the extension itself.
Below are the considerations you must take into account –
1. Size and Scale
- When considering a rear extension, your additional space extending to the rear must not exceed 3 metres of your original building/wall.
- Any double-storey extension must not be more than 4 metres high and should be within the height of the original house.
2. Appearance
Materials considered for the new extension should be similar in appearance or should match the materials to that of the original building.
3. Area
Extensions should not cover more than 50% of the total land area surrounding the original property.
4. Impact on Neighbours
Planning permission or prior approval will be necessary if the extension impacts the light or privacy of a neighbour. Overlooking balconies are a factor that is worth considering, which may intrude the privacy of a neighbour.
5. Location
Planning permission will be required if the house is in a conservation area, is a designated or a listed property.
Budgeting for a Double Storey Extension
Budgeting a double-storey extension involves a number of factors –
- Size & complexity of the extension
- Ground conditions (e.g., a sloping site, if poor soil conditions)
- Structural alterations to the existing building
- Finishes and materials (bespoke or standard)
- Location (London and the Southeast tend to be pricier)
- Contractor choice (design & build vs separate trades)
If you are considering a mid-range double-storey extension, then you can budget for the below –
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Design and Planning | £5,000 to £10,000 |
| Construction | £65,000 to £90,000 |
| Project Management | £8,000 to £15,000 |
| Project Management | £8,000 to £15,000 |
| Interiors and Finishing | £10,000 to £20,000 |
| Contingency Fund | £10,000 to £15,000 |
| Total | £98,000 to £1,50,000 |
The above estimation is a ballpark figure that applies to a mid-range house extension, constituting an area dimension of 40 square metres. Costs will vary according to the area.
Setting design priorities, along with extracting detailed and multiple quotations, will be key to avoiding cost overruns. Keeping a contingency fund regardless of the scale you plan for is always a safe option.
Conclusion
A double-storey extension isn’t just extra square footage, it’s a chance to reinvent your home’s purpose, style, and potential. With smart planning and expert design, you’ll gain not just extra rooms, but better spaces that enhance how you live.
At Extension Architecture, we are specialists who deliver tailored solutions with expert care, whether you’re creating a bigger kitchen-diner or adding bedrooms for a growing family. Get a free quote now!
