So, you’re thinking about a home extension? Exciting times! Whether you’re looking to add more room for a growing family, a dream kitchen, or maybe a bit of both, a well-designed home extension can completely transform how you live in your space. The key is getting the design just right. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some home extension design ideas to get those creative juices flowing, covering everything from open-plan layouts to lighting, materials, and some practical tips.
First things first—what kind of extension are you after? You’ve got a few options depending on your needs and how much space you’ve got to play with.
Once you’ve decided on the type, the fun really begins—designing it!
Part Single, Part Double Storey Rear Extension & Loft Conversion – In & Out House
It’s no secret that open-plan living is hugely popular right now. People love the flexibility of having a big, open space that can serve multiple functions. Need a bigger kitchen that flows into the dining area and maybe even the living room? Open-plan is the way to go.
One thing to keep in mind, though, is zoning. It’s all well and good to knock down walls, but you’ll want to create distinct areas within your open-plan space. Think about different flooring, maybe a change in ceiling height, or even furniture placement to define areas like the kitchen, dining, and living room.
Also, don’t forget about storage! Open-plan designs can be clutter magnets if you’re not careful. Built-in units, shelving, or a well-placed island can help keep things tidy while still looking fab.
Open Plan Kitchen, Living & Dining – Dash House
One of the main goals of many home extensions is to bring in more natural light. There’s nothing better than a sun-drenched kitchen or a bright family room. Here are a few ideas to boost the light levels in your new space:
If you’re going for an extension on the darker side of the house (say, a north-facing rear extension), these little tricks will help ensure you’re not left with a gloomy space.
Side Return Extension with Lots of Natural Light – Walnut House
The materials you choose will play a massive role in how your extension feels. You want something that looks good, obviously, but also blends well with the rest of your house. A few ideas to consider:
Remember, the materials inside matter too. Do you want a polished concrete floor? Or perhaps a warm, wooden finish to bring in some natural texture? There’s a world of options out there—think about what works for your style and practical needs.
Fluted Composite Cladding Kitchen Extension & Loft Dormer Conversion – Flow House
This is where an architectural team or designer can really help. It’s not just about creating a bigger room but about how that room connects with the rest of your house. You’ll want to think about how people move through the space and how the new room affects the layout of the existing house.
If you’re going for an open-plan kitchen extension, think about the kitchen “work triangle”—the ideal layout between the sink, oven, and fridge. It can make a big difference in how easy and enjoyable it is to cook in the space.
For a home extension design that includes a living area or family room, it’s well worth considering where your existing (if you’re keeping it, or new) furniture will go and how the new space will work with existing doors, windows, and hallways. Getting the layout right is key to ensuring your extension feels like a natural part of the home, rather than an add-on.
Modern Home Extension Layout Plans – Monument House
Ah, the not-so-fun part: planning permission and building regulations. Whether or not you need planning permission will depend on the size and scale of your extension. Many home extensions fall under Permitted Development rights, which means you won’t need full permission—but it’s always worth checking with your local planning authority to be sure.
Building regulations, however, are a must. These cover everything from structural integrity to insulation and fire safety. If you’re working with a good architecture practice (ahem, DeVis Architecture!), they’ll guide you through all of this and make sure everything is above board.
It’s the million-dollar question (well, hopefully not literally)—how much is this going to cost? The price of a home extension design can vary massively depending on the size, materials, and complexity of the design. On average, you can expect to pay around:
Then there are all the extras—like flooring, lighting, and kitchen fittings—that can add to the final price. It’s a good idea to budget for around 10% to 15% extra for unexpected costs, as things do tend to pop up during the build.
Average 2024 Build Costs for Home Extensions – Try our ExtensionÂ
Still not sure where to begin? Here are a few home extension design ideas to help inspire you:
Contemporary Home Extension – Monument House
If you’ve got this far, you’re probably already dreaming about what your home extension could look like. The next step? Getting some professional advice to turn those dreams into a reality.
At DeVis Architecture, we specialise in creating home extensions that not only look amazing but also work perfectly for your lifestyle. Whether you’re going for a big open-plan kitchen or a cosy extra living space, we can help design a space that fits your home and your needs.
Why not give us a call or drop us a message to chat about your project? We’re always happy to offer a bit of advice and point you in the right direction!
One of our team will get back to you as soon as possible.