Bungalows have long been popular for their ease of accessibility and charming, cosy designs. But what happens when you start to run out of space in your bungalow? With growing families, changing needs, and the desire to add value to your home, bungalow extensions can offer the perfect solution.
Whether you’re already the proud owner of a bungalow in London or Surrey, or you’re thinking about snapping one up, extending your home can unlock its full potential. Bungalows are often cherished for their spacious plots and single-storey layouts, giving you plenty of room to expand and create a larger, more functional living space. But what could you achieve? Let’s dive into the exciting world of bungalow extensions and explore your options!
When extending your bungalow, you’ve got a few options depending on your needs, space, and budget. Here are the two main types:
Single-storey extensions are the most common option for bungalow owners. These involve extending outwards from the existing footprint of the home, either at the front, side, or rear. A single-storey extension can give you more space for a larger kitchen, a home office, or even a new bedroom.
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Loft conversions are another excellent way to enhance the space in a bungalow. Although typically associated with two-storey homes, loft conversions can be adapted for bungalows, particularly those with a high roofline. A loft conversion can provide a versatile space that can be used as an extra bedroom, home office, or an addtional living space.
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If you’re craving more vertical space and your plot allows for it, adding an additional storey could be the answer. This type of extension essentially transforms your bungalow into a two-storey home, adding considerable living space without sacrificing garden area.
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However, with additional storey extensions, planning permission is almost always required, and there will be additional structural considerations, such as whether the existing foundations can support the extra load.
Bungalow Extension & Loft Conversion – Dash House
Understanding whether you need full planning permission or if your extension falls under Permitted Development (PD) rights is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of the two:
Many bungalow extensions can be carried out under PD rights, especially if they’re modest, single-storey additions. Generally, you won’t need planning permission if:
Always check with your local authority or check the planning portal to confirm that your project meets PD rules.
If your project exceeds PD limitations, you’ll need to apply for full planning permission. This is typically the case for:
In London and Surrey, local councils are particularly mindful of maintaining the character of areas with bungalows, so larger projects might require extra planning considerations.
When extending your bungalow, there are a few additional planning considerations to keep in mind:
It’s always worth thinking about how your extension might affect your neighbours. Will it block light, reduce privacy, or impact their view? If so, you might face objections during the planning process, so it’s best to consult with an architect early on to mitigate these risks.
Councils in areas like Surrey and London often require extensions to be in keeping with the original style of the property. If your bungalow has a traditional aesthetic, it’s important to maintain some level of consistency with your extension. Fortunately, there are plenty of bungalow extension designs that blend modern functionality with classic charm.
Bungalow Extension & Loft Conversion – Dash House
The cost of your bungalow extension Surrey or London will depend on a variety of factors, such as the type of extension, the size, and your location. Here’s a rough guide to help you budget:
If you’re still undecided about what type of extension would best suit your bungalow, here are a few bungalow extension ideas to inspire you:
Open-plan layouts are hugely popular in modern homes, and a single-storey extension offers the perfect opportunity to create a large, flowing kitchen-diner-living space. By knocking through internal walls and extending outwards, you can transform your bungalow into an open, airy home ideal for socialising and family life.
If you want to bring more natural light into your home, why not consider a sunroom or orangery? These light-filled spaces can act as a relaxing retreat or a stunning dining area. Plus, they add a touch of luxury to any property.
For those opting for an additional storey, a master suite complete with a bedroom, en-suite bathroom, and walk-in wardrobe is a fantastic way to make the most of the extra space. It offers a luxurious, private retreat within your home.
Many bungalows have large gardens, making them perfect candidates for rear-facing extensions. A garden-facing kitchen extension with bi-fold doors creates a seamless connection between your indoor and outdoor spaces, ideal for summer entertaining.
Bungalow Open Plan Living – Dash House
In recent years, bungalow extension designs have embraced a mix of traditional styles with contemporary elements. Here are some trends to consider when planning your extension:
Bungalow Open Plan Living – Dash House
Whether you’re looking to create more space for a growing family, increase your property’s value, or simply enjoy a fresh new layout, bungalow extensions offer a fantastic solution. From single-storey rear additions to loft conversions and multi-room renovations, the options are endless.
Here at DeVis Architecture, we specialise in guiding homeowners in Surrey and London through every step of the process, from initial designs to planning applications and the final build. If you’re ready to explore bungalow extension ideas for your home, get in touch with us today, and let’s bring your vision to life!
One of our team will get back to you as soon as possible.