Home » Misc » Side return extension floor plans

Side return extension floor plans


Side return extensions: 18 ideas to help you plan for yours

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

(Image credit: Roof Maker)

Join our newsletter

Thank you for signing up to Realhomes. You will receive a verification email shortly.

There was a problem. Please refresh the page and try again.

By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.

Side return extensions offer a great solution to dark and uninviting back rooms. And by working with the poorly used space at the rear, or with the small alley to the side of your house – a feature in many a terraced or semi-detached house – you can build an extension that is beyond all proportion to its size. 

Unlike a rear extension, side returns help conserve garden space. While if you choose a wrap around extension, this will inevitably eat into your garden space. However, combine this with a single storey extension and it will not only create a spacious and light-filled area for a generous kitchen, dining room and living room, but it could also add value to your property. Then, there's more cash to treat yourself to your dream sofa, or a brand new mattress...

As one of the more cost effective extension types, although some garden space may be sacrificed, a good side return extension can improve the indoor-outdoor connection and enhance your living space no end. 

18 ideas for side return extensions

Use this guide to planning and designing a side return extension to get yours right – then hop over to our ultimate guide for how to extend a house for all the practical advice and inspiration you'll need.

1. What type of side return extension can you build?

Rather than a simple kitchen update, Sarah Bradley opted for a side-return extension to add space to her terraced home. She hired Architect Your Home for the work, ‘The ground floor, including the garden, feels like a series of separate but connected spaces,’ Sarah says

(Image credit: Tim Mitchell)

Building a single storey extension is the cheapest and often most viable option. Frequently built as a kitchen extension to turn a small kitchen into a generous, open-plan kitchen-diner, such an addition can help provide garden-facing dining and seating, or the extra width could even contribute to a reconsidered, more open-plan layout throughout the ground floor.

Two storey extensions can be possible, too, and although one of these will cost you more to build than a single storey one, it will be more cost-effective to build – in other words, you get more square footage for your money. 

2. How much does a side return extension cost?

You can expect to pay around £1,500 to £1,900 per square metre for a single storey side extension of basic quality; around £1,900 to £2,200 per square metre for a finish of good quality; and, between £2,200 to £2,400 per square metre for a finish of excellent quality. 

If you're planning a side return extension, the best place to start with costing is our free extension cost calculator, which will give you a good idea for budgeting.  

3. Do you need planning permission for a side return extension?

You probably won’t need planning permission for a side return extension. The permitted development rules allows single-storey side extensions up to a maximum of 4m high and a width no more than half that of the original house. If the extension is within 2m of the boundary, eaves height should not exceed 3m. 

However, if you live in a Conservation Area, national park, AONB or there’s an Article 4 direction on your property, you may need to get planning permission, so check with your local authority. Find out more with our guide to planning permission and to permitted development for extensions in our guides.

4. How can I reflect light into the depths of the extension?

Clever colour scheming can help compensate for the loss of the side window and increased depth to the room when you create side return extensions. Painting kitchen cabinets in pale colours, reflective materials, glass or high gloss tiled kitchen splashback ideas and pale stone flooring, will all help bounce light around. Introduce warmth with wood finishes, or taps and pendant lights in copper or brass.

If you'd like white kitchen ideas, be sure to look at our gallery.

5. Letting in light (and views) with glazing is a must

Incorporating the side return into the interior of their maisonette gave Alex Depledge and Dave Cockle, the room their home needed. Resi carried out the work. ‘The extension gives us the extra room Dave was looking for, and allows us to extend our time in the city for a few more years,' says Alex

(Image credit: Leanne Dixon)

House extensions are often added to maximise light. Rooflights link a side return extension to the outside, especially when tall trees are visible in the surroundings – and a view of open sky can also help the interior feel bigger. A window with minimal framing and no glazing bars across it will maximise sightlines, particularly if it’s floor to ceiling, as will sliding doors or large bi-folds with the same barely-there style of frame.

Your side return extension design goes hand-in-hand with kitchen design and planning – if you will in fact be adding space to your kitchen. The extra width of the new room is often used to add a dining table, creating an eat-in kitchen. The former side return can be a good location for the table, with a long run of units on the opposite wall. With sufficient width, kitchen island ideas can separate kitchen and dining space, introducing an extra preparation surface and perhaps a breakfast bar. 

Alternatively, an L-shaped kitchen at the back of the new space could allow the dining table to be placed centrally in the room and further towards doors to the garden.

7. Choose roof windows that don't need to open – which will save £££s

(Image credit: Roof Maker)

Should rooflights in side return extensions be openable? If your bi-fold, sliding or other patio doors are likely to be opened frequently, you may not need to be able to open the roof windows to ventilate the room – fixed designs are usually a more budget-friendly extension idea. But on cold days when you don’t want a draught whistling through, openable rooflights are an advantage, and they’ll help regulate the temperature in summer too. To make life easy, opt for electronic operation by means of a remote control and a rain sensor to close them automatically when the sky clouds over and droplets start to fall.

The extension above, to Ruth Heslop’s Edwardian townhouse in Cheltenham, has replaced the former cramped galley kitchen with a more open and adaptable design. To bring in more light, it has a new box window and three custom-size Luxlite™ pitched triple-glazed anti-glare rooflights from Roof Maker, which open electronically and include a handy rain sensor.

8. Put the dark end of the room to good use

Kelly Nutt-Edson and her husband, Tom, freed up space for a playroom for their twins by extending into the side return of their home with help from Build Team . ‘Widening the room completely changed the use of all the ground-floor rooms,’ says Kelly. ‘When we bought the house, extending into the side return was something we knew we wanted to do. We visited a couple of neighbours’ homes and could see it worked really well. We primarily wanted an open space to spend time together'

(Image credit: Build Team)

Extending to the side can make the middle of the house dark. Use rooflights to bring daylight in. Bi-fold or sliding doors to the garden could be fitted across the back of the room you are extending, or combine slimmer versions with large windows. Consider placing a room that doesn’t need daylight, like a utility, cloakroom or storage, at the centre of the house.

9. Keeping neighbours on-side can save you £££s

If you’re working on the existing party wall, building a new one at or on the boundary line with next door, or excavating near an adjoining building, you’ll need a written party wall agreement from next door before work begins. Start by serving a party wall notice on the neighbours, or pay a party wall surveyor to do this on your behalf.  

Better still, keep them informed of your plans from early on and see if they'll agree to sign a party wall agreement waiver – doing so will save you at least £1,000. 

10. Dealing with the openings into the new room

You may be left with two openings to the new room: the original from the hallway, and a second where a reception room window used to be when it overlooked the side return. If so, a bank of kitchen cabinetry – possibly including a great fridge-freezer – can be an effective use of the wall space in between. Alternatively, why not include open shelving or a mixture of shelves and closable units? This is where great kitchen storage ideas will come in handy.

11. Replace all the downstairs flooring

(Image credit: Jody Stewart)

A continuous floor finish throughout will help the new side return extension feel as large as possible. You could even opt for the same flooring in the front reception rooms and hall to create a fuss-free look and expansive feel across the ground floor. If you take the latter option, bear in mind that what you choose needs to stand up to foot traffic throughout, be easy to maintain and suitable for all of the individual zones.

12. Add character without breaking the budget

Architectural details can drive up the cost of an extension, so if you're looking to extend on a budget, you may want to keep wall finishes the same in the newly extended space, while a different look for the wall of the side return can make the room look less boxy. 

Exposed brickwork or brick slips can add an industrial touch. A patterned or textured wallpaper can create contrast. Easier still is to paint the side return wall a different colour from the rest of the room.

13. Plan thoroughfares to make the kitchen work

It’s important that your side return extension doesn’t result in the working part of the kitchen becoming a passageway. A central kitchen island can be a sensible way to divide the preparation and cooking area from the route into the new room from the front of the house. A peninsular kitchen design is also a handy way to direct foot traffic.

(Image credit: Alison Hammond)

Sliding or bi-fold doors with minimal framing opening to the garden are definite winners, but using a more traditional door style can make a new side-return extension feel at one with a period property. 

Or consider industrial-style steel-framed windows and doors, as above, that will provide snapshot views to the garden. A design like this can harmonise beautifully with an exposed brick wall, or industrial details in a kitchen.

A single pitch roof can make a side return feel loftier inside, and look attractive viewed from the garden. But, flat glazed roofs or one with a series of rooflights, can be equally as effective. Pitched roofs have a more traditional appearance, while a flat roof can appear sleeker. The latter is also worth considering as a good way to focus light on a dining area. 

16. Consider the exterior finishes early

David Money Architects added a side return extension to a three storey Victorian terraced house, expanding the kitchen into an informal family room and maximising the natural light. The cedar used to clad the exterior continues into the garden, creating a link between the indoor and outdoor spaces.

(Image credit: David Modell)

Should a side-return extension match or contrast with the original house? Both are possible – and both can be successful. Matching materials will create a harmonious feel, whereas contrasting contemporary finishes make the new addition stand out. Call on an architect to help with your plans – and check out our feature on how to improve your house exterior design for inspiration.

17. Being space efficient will make it feel roomier

Access to a house with side return extensions is typically tricky, since these homes tend to be terraced. If the new room is still of relatively modest proportions once the side return is incorporated into the interior, a single line galley kitchen can provide functional cooking and preparation areas. In this scenario, too many wall units can be oppressive, so plan in shelving or glass-fronted units to keep the feel open. Make sure there’s worktop space either side of the hob as well.

18. Sort access issues early on

If you live in a terraced home with restricted access, then that may affect the options you have for your side return extensions. For example, you may not be able to use certain construction methods, or you may need to make arrangements with your neighbours to temporarily remove fence panels or use their land for short-term storage.

More on extending and renovating:

Sarah is a freelance journalist and editor writing for websites, national newspapers, and magazines. She’s spent most of her journalistic career specialising in homes – long enough to see fridges become smart, decorating fashions embrace both minimalism and maximalism, and interiors that blur the indoor/outdoor link become a must-have. She loves testing the latest home appliances, revealing the trends in furnishings and fittings for every room, and investigating the benefits, costs and practicalities of home improvement. It's no big surprise that she likes to put what she writes about into practice, and is a serial house revamper. For Realhomes.com, Sarah reviews coffee machines and vacuum cleaners, taking them through their paces at home to give us an honest, real life review and comparison of every model.

For terraced houses and more |

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

(Image credit: Extreme Design)

Saddled with a dark, narrow kitchen at the back of the house? Our side return extension ideas could be the key to transforming your cooking domain, without eating into precious garden space.

One of the less extreme kitchen extension ideas, side returns can offer a great return on your investment, too.

The amount of space you’ll gain may not look that impressive on paper. But an extra metre or two widthways can turn pokey galley kitchens into more sociable, user-friendly spaces.

'With extra space, width and light, you can gain more living space for entertaining, living, playing and working from home,' says Leigh Bowen of 50 Degrees North Architects .

Side Return Extension Ideas

1. PLAN AHEAD

(Image credit: Darren Chung)

When planning a kitchen extension, thinking about the layout and architecture in tandem can help the new structure feel purposeful, with architectural elements working with the overall kitchen design, not against.

'One of the most common mistakes when planning or designing a side return extension is leaving the layout and choice of kitchen until late into the building project,' says Melissa Klink, head of design, Harvey Jones.

'By choosing your design and working on it alongside your architect, you can alter the room to suit the kitchen idea, and vice versa. Often just one small detail or minor adjustment can make all the difference to how much you enjoy the space.'

The Linear kitchen, Harvey Jones

2. CLEAR SKY THINKING

(Image credit: Elina Posak)

One downside of a side return extension is you can end up reducing daylight into existing rooms. The most popular solution is to glaze the side return roof to bring more light into the heart of your home.

Here, modern glass beams let in maximum daylight and provide a virtually frameless look.

'Glass beams are made from at least four layers of 10mm toughened glass laminated together,' explains Rebecca Clayton, director, IQ Glass . 'We always recommend glass roofs are load-bearing, so that someone can walk on the roof for access, cleaning and maintenance.'

3. FIND YOUR MATCH

(Image credit: deVOL)

Colour coordinating kitchen cabinetry with new window and door frames is an effective way to achieve design cohesion in a side return extension. Here, deVOL’s own paint colour, Pantry Blue, is matched to the glazing bars in the roof lights, resulting in a beautifully balanced interior.

While most glazing companies supply frames in standard colours, for a small surcharge it’s often possible to get a paint colour matched or choose from RAL or NCS colour systems – try Express Bi-folding Doors .

The Real Shaker Kitchen painted in Pantry Blue by deVOL

4. SMOOTH CONNECTIONS

(Image credit: Extreme Design)

When planning the interior layout of a new side return, do consider how the new space connects with the old.

If you will be coming in directly from the front door or hallway, consider creating a short corridor of storage made from floor-to-ceiling cabinets. Perfect for stashing coats, bags and shoes before entering the new open-plan kitchen.

It will help to keep clutter at bay, and the transition from cosy hallway to light, bright kitchen is both uplifting and welcoming.

5. LOOK UP

(Image credit: British Standard by Plain English)

Interior designers often refer to the ceiling as the ‘fifth wall’. This is in reference to its equal importance when decorating. Instead of attempting to hide the chaos of removing internal walls and switching ceiling levels, it can be wiser to turn it into a feature.

Here, exposing the beams on the original ceiling boosts the sense of height, while echoing the industrial design vibes in the kitchen below.

It also helps to draw attention away from the much lower sloped ceiling of the side return. This is often necessary when building next to a ‘Party Wall’, where the height can be restricted to 2m.

6. LET THERE BE LIGHT

(Image credit: Richard Powers)

The brief for this side return extension was to maximise the sense of light through the full length of the room. 'We created an airy scheme. New roof lights and French doors flood in natural light and give an open feel through to the garden beyond,' explains interior designer Philippa Thorp, director of Thorp.

'The combination of fluted and veneered timber door panels in the kitchen lend the room a subtle texture. Whilst the over scaled plaster hanging kitchen lighting from Porta Romana provide a focal point and add a hint of drama to the room. The muted colour palette in soft grey tones keeps the space feeling bright and modern.'

7. SKYLIGHT SOLUTIONS

(Image credit: Sola Swedish Kitchens)

While it can be tempting to put in the biggest skylights you can fit, it shouldn’t be at the expense of privacy.

Terraced homes are particularly prone to being overlooked from above, in which case a narrow skylight might prove preferable. Here, this side return skylight is long but thin, so that only a narrow strip of the kitchen is overlooked.

Going for a long, frameless skylight, compensates for lack of width. Also consider the impact of solar gain, especially when cooking up a storm.

'This is particularly important if your extension is south facing. Any roof glazing should be controlled by solar control glass if possible, or shaded from the inside,' adds Neil Tomlinson of Neil Tomlinson Architects .

8. BLEND OLD AND NEW

(Image credit: Smallbone of Devizes)

If you are seeking more space without unbalancing the authentic heritage of a period home, a traditionally designed side return extension could be the answer.

Here, the owners used reclaimed bricks instead of new, leaving the beautiful aged brickwork exposed to add character to their new kitchen. Classic French doors can also feel more harmonious than modern bi-fold or sliding doors in an older home.

'We wanted the extension to mirror existing architectural features and stay in keeping with the other windows around the house. The salvaged bricks mimic those on the original garden wall outside,' explains the owner Victoria Short.

9. GET IN THE ZONE

(Image credit: John Lewis of Hungerford)

In an open-plan extension, zoning the kitchen layout to create distinct areas for cooking, dining and relaxing is the key to enjoying every inch. It's also important to carefully blend the original house and new side return addition.

In this sociably arranged L-shaped kitchen by John Lewis of Hungerford, a peninsula unit gives the kitchen a clear boundary line, without cutting it off from the rest of the living space.

Installing the main sink on the peninsula allows glorious garden views while prepping dinner. Using the same paint colours in the living area achieves continuity through the room.

10. SUPPORTING ROLE

(Image credit: Gary Summers)

Knocking out external walls often results in cumbersome but unavoidable supporting joists. To make matters worse, you can’t usually choose where a vertical support will go. It is positioned to carry the weight of the rooms above.

Here, painting the vertical support column in the same muted shade as the island minimises its impact. This helps it blend with the kitchen.

Day True has also cleverly designed the kitchen layout so that the column is tucked neatly into the corner and never feels in the way. Not having to physically navigate around a supporting column in a side return will go a long way towards reducing its presence.

WHAT IS A SIDE RETURN EXTENSION?

Popular on terraced and semi-detached properties, a side return extension utilises dead space to the side of a property. They are considered a good way to boost the width of the often-dark, narrow room at the rear of a house. At the same time, you won't be losing valuable garden space.

Typically, the space a side return is built onto is only used to store the bins. It can be put to much better use inside, perhaps making room for dining in the kitchen or more space to entertain. If a side return extension is also extended to the rear, it is classified as a wraparound extension.

Outside return extension ideas offer good examples of both standard and wraparound additions.

DO I NEED PLANNING PERMISSION FOR A SIDE RETURN EXTENSION?

In the UK, a straightforward side return usually falls under your Permitted Development rights. This means a planning application isn’t necessary.

Your rights may be restricted if your house is listed or in a conservation area. And there are also strict guidelines in terms of the maximum dimensions allowed. Particularly regarding height, and proximity to neighbouring properties.

You will still need to notify your local authority of your intension to build, comply with building regulations, formally consult neighbours and, most likely, arrange a Party Wall agreement.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO BUILD A SIDE RETURN EXTENSION?

'Timings largely depend on the type and size of the project you are working on,' says Matt Baker, kitchen designer at Harvey Jones. But on average, building a side return kitchen extension could take between three and five months.

For a thorough and precise kitchen installation, you should allow at least four weeks. Especially if it includes hand-painted cabinetry.'

Linda graduated from university with a First in Journalism, Film and Broadcasting. Her career began on a trade title for the kitchen and bathroom industry, and she has worked for Homes & Gardens, and sister-brands Livingetc, Country Homes & Interiors and Ideal Home, since 2006, covering interiors topics, though kitchens and bathrooms are her specialism.  

Plan your dream kitchen expansion with our expert guide

Thank you for registering with Realhomes. You will soon receive a confirmation email.

There was a problem. Refresh the page and try again.

By submitting information, you agree to the Terms of Use (opens in a new tab) and Privacy Policy (opens in a new tab) and you are at least 16 years old.

A kitchen extension is a project that is at the top of many homeowners' wish lists. Getting more space, creating space for dining and cooking, achieving a more sociable location, and taking advantage of garden views can all be reasons to plan a new room. nine0003

Surprisingly, kitchen extensions don't require a lot of outside space to create a room that meets all your expectations. By simply snuggle up a bit at the back of your home, stepping into a side entrance, or perhaps choosing a combination of both, you'll have the space you've been dreaming of.

For many people this is a kitchen/dining room extension that will change the life of the home as you expand the home, or your addition could be part of a plan to create an open floor plan downstairs. But whatever your goal, our kitchen expansion guide has everything you need to plan your stunning new room, and we also have plenty of inspirational diagrams for you to browse as well. Read the information by scrolling down the page, or use the links to navigate to the desired section. Happy planning! nine0003

Once you've learned how to plan a kitchen expansion with our expert advice, you'll need to research kitchen expansion costs so you can budget better. And you can use our free renewal cost calculator to find out how much your project is likely to cost you as well.

Jump straight to the section you're interested in

The practicalities of building a kitchen extension are appointing a builder or architect and getting planning permission, but before you start you really need to get a feel for how big the extension will be and you can do it, having developed what do you need from him .

When it comes to planning your kitchen extension, you will be able to come up with your ideal design considering your existing environment and what you have to work with. Determining how you want to use and enjoy your extension once completed will help you decide what the room layout should be.

Whether you have an empty garden space to work in, an old conservatory or a room in a side return, these are all great starting points for your kitchen extension design. think about how you will use your new space during the season, how to make your garden easier to access, and the best ways to bring in more natural light. Whether you're thinking of an L-shaped, small or side extension, below we've got plenty of kitchen expansion ideas to get you inspired.

From there it's all about the budget and we have a lot of cost management tips when it comes to building the kitchen extension below.

So keep scrolling to check out our kitchen expansion tips and make sure your kitchen is designed and planned right from the start. Be sure to check out our comprehensive home extension guide for further practical planning advice and cost information. nine0003

How to Plan a Kitchen Extension

Modern Kitchen Expansion Ideas

The amount of space you need to expand your kitchen will depend on how you plan to use it, so start here. There is no point in wasting money on an extension that is too small. Being too big isn't always an advantage either - a room that's out of proportion with the rest of your home or mostly empty (and therefore devoid of soul) isn't an advantage either. nine0003

As a rule, the kitchen is the heart of family life and the room where we spend most of our time: cooking, eating, socializing, working and relaxing, so an open (or semi-open) space is often the best way to use a new extension.

The key to creating the perfect open plan kitchen is the right space and layout, and only then the choice of kitchen units, design details and finishes. Learn more about how to design open plan kitchen to make the interior layout right.

Read more about designing an extension kitchen below, but before you do, write down a list of all the features you already have in your kitchen and then add the features and appliances you want to add to the space.

What you need to expand the kitchen:

Decide where to place your kitchen annex

Kitchen annexes need to be fully accessible: this thoughtful kitchen annex design provides easy access to the garden

your home will benefit the most from an extension. nine0003

There are many options with kitchen extensions. You can expand the back or side of the house to get extra space; in a townhouse, a side return extension may be all you need to create the kitchen of your dreams. In a townhouse, it may make sense to make a basement conversion , with a light well leading to the garden.

Small additions to a home may not need a building permit if they fall within the definition of permitted development. Large extensions or additions to an apartment always require planning permission. Modifications to a listed building always require building consent, whether or not the building is permitted. nine0003

Extension to the back of your property? No extensions should unduly compromise the garden, so try to strike a balance between creating workspace indoors and keeping as much space outside as possible.

A good architect will help and advise on this, but if you're not sure, try to visit as many outbuildings as you can to see what works and what doesn't. Also check out our article on creating indoor and outdoor living spaces. nine0003

Surfaces and finishes review

Unique Silver Touch hot rolled steel cabinet and island from £40,000, Eggersmann

If you intend to do something dramatic instead of standard surface finishes, decide early kitchen expansion plans, as design mistakes are expensive and remodeling is a real headache. Improving the indoor and outdoor ambience can be achieved with brick tiles that match the bricks of the exterior walls, while some porcelain stoneware floor tiles can be used both inside the kitchen and on the patio. Consider an alternative to a plastered ceiling. In terms of design, planks of wood seem to elongate the space, and wood brings warmth to furniture in cooler hues. nine0003

(Opens in a new tab)

Can't shop but don't want to miss the latest issue of your favorite home magazine? Don't worry, when you subscribe today you'll get all issues of Real Home magazine delivered straight to your door and your device.

From stunning completed projects to the latest decorating ideas to try in your own space, you'll find plenty to keep you entertained and inspired in every release. Don't miss out on our special offer - sign up for our annual print and digital content package today for only $39.£.99 - a huge savings of 52%.

Find a good architect to expand your kitchen

Once you have decided where you want to place the extension, consult a RIBA registered architect to see what can be achieved.

You will need plans and construction drawings for the builder and to demonstrate building code compliance.

Work with an architect or architectural technologist to provide them. “They can also inspire you with design ideas you might not have known about,” says Hugo Tugman, founder of Architect Your Home . "Hire someone who specializes in homeowner projects and have them do a small paid job, like a blueprint, to make sure they're the right fit for the job." nine0003

Decide how much participation you want them to have. “Some only offer full service and construction supervision,” says Alan Cronshaw of Acronym Architecture & Design. "Others offer partial service, ending communications after obtaining planning and construction management permission."

Find an architect through the Architect Registration Board (opens in a new tab) or an architectural technologist at CIAT (opens in a new tab). nine0003

Bid Kitchen Annex

With plans in mind, you can go ahead and find a builder and reliable contractor to bid on your extension work. Consider personal and professional references, and seek through trade organizations such as the FMB (Federation of Master Builders).

Make an appointment with at least three contractors and send them the plans, construction drawings and specification documents, as well as the contract you want to use, so they can calculate the price as accurately as possible to get a quote. nine0003

Do you need planning permission for a kitchen extension?

If the work is classified as a permitted development, you do not need to apply for a building permit, but you can apply for a legal building certificate, which proves that the project is legal. If you need a building permit, you will have to contact your local council and may need additional reports. Whichever route you choose, you will need a building permit. If you are building on or close to a border with a neighbor, you may need to issue a party wall notice. nine0003

How long will the kitchen extension take?

It depends on the scope of the project, including whether there are difficulties accessing the site, how custom the kitchen extension is, and how well you manage your schedule. You can expect a a small kitchen extension to take 10 to 12 weeks , while a large kitchen extension can take up to six months . Some will be faster, others slower. Remember that these timelines do not include the planning and design phases of your project. nine0003

Designing a kitchen extension

Designing a kitchen extension is all about the details and you may need help from an architect, a builder and no doubt a kitchen designer for this. But don't just think about looks - design your kitchen extension equally in terms of functionality. There are many places where you can find kitchen expansion inspiration and ideas, and we have included them below, and here's how to decide on a kitchen expansion design for the best results. nine0003

Prepare detailed terms of reference for kitchen extension

Tell your designer what you want. “A common mistake is to inform your architect about a set of constraints without talking about the possibilities,” explains architect Hugo Tugman. “When I work with homeowners, I discuss a short assignment and sketch designs around their kitchen table to get them involved and make sure what I create fits their needs and lifestyle.” nine0003

Photo: Darren Chang

A good architect will come up with creative ideas and solutions that you might not have thought of. For example, conventional bi-folding doors can be replaced with a single door, and drama can be created with a huge window extending to the top of the roof and a slit window overlooking the garden, as in the linear kitchen above. from £20,000 Harvey Jones (Opens in a new tab).

How do you get access to the kitchen annex?

“As one of the main spaces in your home, the kitchen should ideally be accessible from the main hallway rather than through another room,” says real estate expert Michael Holmes. "Typically, extensions are added to the side or back of the home to maximize connections to the garden as well as create extra space inside. " nine0003

Ideally, this transition should be as smooth as possible, which can be achieved through good layout planning and selection of interior details and materials, including, for example, flooring and skirting boards.

You can achieve the best possible space by remodeling an existing interior layout, perhaps by removing interior walls to connect two rooms together, or by remodeling and connecting an attached garage.

For advice on garage remodeling, our guide can help. nine0003

How do you get to the garden from the kitchen annex?

The transition from the inside of your new kitchen extension to the outside should be as smooth as the transition from the original part of the house to the new room. This means that exterior garden doors should be positioned so that they look natural and are practical both inside and out.

Bi-fold or sliding doors that lead directly to the terrace or terrace will help you make the most of the interconnection of indoor and outdoor spaces in a space, creating a more successful finish. nine0003

Think also about the visual transition between two spaces. Whether you have fixed glazing or folding sliding doors, make sure you position them to make the most of your garden view.

Use our bi-folding and sliding door selection guide to learn more, and browse through these folding and sliding door design ideas for inspiration.

Pay attention to the glazing elements of the kitchen extension. nine0045

With its location and accessibility from inside and outside, consider how much glazing you want to include in your kitchen extension. This will help you make the most of the light, but it should be done in conjunction with planning different food preparation areas, dining and living areas, and any utility spaces—because the more glazing you have, the less wall space will be available for cabinets.

Also note the orientation of the extension. If it is south facing, you might want to consider limiting the glazing to avoid overheating. You can find more bright extension ideas in our article. nine0003

Consider extending your conservatory kitchen

This is a popular way to bring lots of light into your kitchen extension. What do you need to keep in mind besides enforcing planning laws and building codes? Make sure that the glazing is able to maintain the right temperature in the kitchen both in winter and in summer; if you are going to install remote control blinds, be aware that over time they will collect dirt and grease from cooking, so they need to be easy to clean; leave enough solid wall to accommodate fittings and fixtures; make sure that any entrances and exits to the premises will not interfere with food preparation areas; and provide the best view of the garden from any dining or living room. nine0003

Want more winter garden ideas? We can help.

Think about the exterior of your kitchen extension

Consider how your planned extension will look from the outside. In the same way that you can match the details and materials inside with those of the original home to create a seamless transition from an existing space to a new one, choosing materials that match your home's exterior materials will make your new addition a success. Or perhaps you want to house your new kitchen in a traditional style. nine0019 conservatory , or choose a contrast, for example with glass box extension , for a contemporary finish?

Where to locate the kitchen in the annex

As a general rule, the kitchen/kitchen area will be in the darkest part of the new room. It may seem counterintuitive, but for most of us, it is preferable that the living and dining area be located closest to the garden, which means that the cooking area will be away from the light. These are important areas for taking advantage of natural daylight, plus it's more practical to locate cooking/preparation areas away from kitchen doors (especially if children will be in and out of them). nine0003

Placing the kitchen at the end of the room closest to the original part of the house gives you the opportunity to place a utility room behind it. You can subdivide an old room to create a narrow utility room tucked away behind the kitchen, saving space in the new living and dining area. Bonus? Not only have you gained usable space that adds value in every way, but you've removed some of the noisier appliances from the kitchen extension.

Check out our utility room ideas for more inspiration. nine0003

Plan your kitchen layout

Once you have the space you want to design, you can start thinking about your kitchen layout - our ultimate kitchen design guide is a useful starting point. It is worth consulting with two or three experienced kitchen designers to get their ideas. Make sure you give them a clear idea of ​​what you're trying to achieve, but take their advice on how to plan according to the space, for example, design a galley, choose an L-shaped kitchen design, or a U-shaped design. kitchen layout. Or imagine a kitchen island or wall for household appliances. nine0003

As a general rule, however, as we discussed above, it is best to position the kitchen towards the back of the extension, closest to the original part of the house, with the living and dining area towards the brighter, garden end of the space.

Other things to consider include:

In terms of practicality, a good designer will understand the importance of functionality (ergonomics) and include all the appliances you specify. After agreeing on the basic layout, details such as the style of kitchen cabinets (see our gallery for ideas) and drawer fronts can be finalized, worktops and kitchen aprons . You can also move on to final parts like sink and faucets , or even boiling water faucets .

Don't miss our feature on Kitchen Interior Design to get those latest details just right.

Once you have completed the layout and selected a supplier, the designer can develop detailed electrical and plumbing plans to enable builders to implement services during the construction phase. You can then do the plastering and finishing work and lay the floors, ready for the arrival of the kitchen installers. nine0003

Kitchen Extension Estimate

With plans in place, you can determine how much you can afford to spend on each element of your kitchen extension, and adjust plans if your budget does not allow for certain design elements. Prices will vary depending on the work you are doing, but are indicative:

Is an extension to a small kitchen worth it?

Carefully planned, small A kitchen extension can make a big difference, allowing you to re-layout an existing space to create a whole new room that has room for dining and living areas, as well as food preparation.

Our guide to side return extensions is a good place to explore how you could expand and extend smaller spaces to the sides, like in the kitchen below; a small one-story extension (check out our detailed guide on this) at the back of the house can also give you flexibility. The main thing is to properly arrange the kitchen. nine0003

20 Kitchen Expansion Ideas & Photos

Even on a tight budget, you can add value to your home and change the look of your space, allowing for open-plan living and beautiful design, all with a kitchen extension.

Whether you're looking for ideas to expand a small kitchen to create a contemporary kitchen-dining room or furnish a semi-finished 1970s or Victorian terrace, get inspired by our selection of beautiful spaces below, many of which cost under £100,000. nine0003

1. Bright and spacious kitchen for £84,000.

Emma and Julien Barber spent over a year looking for a new home, having lived for 1920 years in a dilapidated 10s house in Swindon. They looked at a few homes that didn't suit them before realizing they could create the space they wanted and a home where they already are.

Their new kitchen is minimalist, clean and uncluttered, with double doors that open onto their beautiful garden.

Total cost of renovation £84,000, the main part was spent on adding a kitchen - this was much cheaper than the cost of moving. Complement your natural light with a little help from our kitchen lighting ideas.

2. Modern open floor plan and bright space.

Modern kitchen extension by Plus Rooms (opens in a new tab), including kitchen table.

Extending the rear not only creates a beautiful open plan space, but also makes the most of a small garden by creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. nine0003

Marble countertops, sleek lines and brass accents add a luxurious feel to this kitchen, while the exposed brick wall and wood dining table make it an inviting place to entertain family and friends.

For the best decorating ideas for copper kitchenware, check out our article.

£60,000 modern kitchen addition.

This kitchen was originally impractically small for the detached four-bedroom home it served and for the growing Lewis-Pierrepoint family. They made good use of the third acre their home sits on, carving out part of the vast garden to expand their tiny kitchen. nine0003

Glossy blue cabinets and contemporary white surfaces reflect light across the room from the double doors opposite the kitchen island, making it the perfect setting for family dinners. All in all, £90,000 £60,000 was spent creating the perfect family kitchen.

Want an even cheaper extension? Learn how to build a extension to £50,000 .

4. £66,000 kitchen outbuilding filled with antiques. nine0045

When Angela Hart and Richard Rush first saw this Regency cottage, they knew the small galley kitchen would not suit them. As part of the two-story extension project, the couple broke through the downstairs bathroom and out into the garden.

They didn't want to spend a fortune on a kitchen that would inevitably be old and outdated in 15 years, so they chose antique furniture that was cost-effective and lasted a lifetime. Around £ £66,000 they have created a whimsical kitchen that will stand the test of time. nine0003

Find out more about planning a two-story extension in our guide.

5. L-shaped kitchen with character

The light flow of movement is crucial in all rooms and especially in the kitchen, which is why an L-shaped design can work so well. This kitchen extension is perfectly zoned - an L-shaped space with a kitchen island for cooking and a dining area sits side by side - creating a flowing and sophisticated finish.

We also love the unique touches of this design in the wall hangings and photographs as they add personality to what is still a very modern and clean space. nine0003

6. £78,000 galley extension.

Like many houses in the 1940s, this one had a tiny kitchen that was too small for a house of that size. The solution was to expand and open up the back of the house with huge double doors. The minimalist white blocks, along with the white walls and ceiling, make the room look even bigger than it is. The use of a dark wood floor and charcoal wall creates contrast and enhances the space. Despite its size, this one-story extension was built in just £78,000 .

Find out more about planning a one-story extension in our guide.

£7.98,000 for an industrial kitchen in London.

This five-bedroom Victorian terraced house in south London had huge potential for kitchen expansion. There was a lot of dead space in the side entrance, and at the back of the house was an old greenhouse that could have been put to better use. The L-shaped extension was proposed to the local planning department, and within a month the owners were ready to move in. nine0003

A row of skylights fills the room with natural light, while large French doors at the rear open up new space to the garden. With no original features left in the house, the industrial style fits right into the blank canvas. Spending £98,000 turned the original ugly kitchen into a beautiful industrial space.

Take a look at these inspiring industrial kitchen design ideas.

8. £85,000 Side Return Extension. nine0045

Owner Pippa Mundy's approach to renovating her Cardiff home included stripping it down to reveal interesting features, as well as being flexible in her plans when she ran into a speed bump. The result is a really interesting cuisine based on a reclaimed wooden island.

The side return extension allowed glazing through the roof, which was greatly helped by the triple glass doors at the rear of the kitchen. A quirky extension was created for £85,000 .

Tips for building a side return extension can be found in our practical guide.

9. Max Lighting for £78,880.

Buying the home with the kitchen of your dreams does not necessarily mean finding real estate agents. For Fraser and Frieda Furlong, it meant patiently saving up for a decade to create the light-filled expansion they had always dreamed of.

The creative use of contrasting color and pattern with modern units and warm wood in their kitchen expansion plans, while the entire room was lit by skylights and solid wood sliding doors, resulted in a dynamic and inviting finish. The exterior contrasts with the rest of the building as it is finished in a contemporary blue color and the silver decking leads out to the garden. Expenses £78,880 gave the Furlong family exactly what they wanted.

Find more information and ideas on how to create a light filled extension in our guide.

10. £72,000 kitchen-dining room extension.

Ian and Gillian Roberts bought this house with the intention of doing a complete refurbishment in 2008. The family was then sent to Hong Kong to work for Yang before the project could go live. Upon their return, the family faced either extensive renovations or a new move. nine0003

Instead of choosing the easy option, they jumped into repairs. Their kitchen, now located in an annex that used to be a dead garden, is a modern, light kitchen-dining annex. It is filled with light thanks to a glass wall at the end and large skylights at the top. The cost of the kitchen extension is about £ £72,000 .

Find out more about home renovation in our detailed guide.

11. £58,000 addition to family kitchen. nine0045

When Paul Reed took his partner Elaine to tour this 1960s mansion, the galley was far from what she had imagined. The blocks were falling apart, they were mustard brown and only served by electricity. It was the nightmare of the 1970s, unchanged and outdated.

The couple opted for a streamlined look with their final design, opting for contemporary eye-level ovens and curved units. They may have spent a little more on essentials like countertops and cabinets, but overall saved money by adapting their design and removing appliances they didn't need. From an unattractive galley, they created this luxurious space in just £58,000 .

For more family ideas and kitchen design tips, visit our dedicated page.

12. Small kitchen addition costing £74,424.

After Nicola Wilks and Stuart Davis' ambitious two-story 1960s home extension left them penniless, the couple had to get creative when it came to designing a new kitchen at the end of their renovation project.

Instead of going all out, the couple put some smart small kitchen expansion ideas into action and spent money where it mattered and made the most of their space. The basics were simple and straightforward with reasonable kitchen units and work surfaces. The money went to the finishing touches to add a sense of luxury with lighting fixtures, tiles and furniture making the biggest impact on the space. Total project cost £74,424 The result is a simple yet effective Scandinavian style kitchen extension.

If you need help choosing the best kitchen tile, check out our guide.

13. £68,000 kitchen extension in London.

Emily and Angus Grierson looked at the many beautiful houses in the Finsbury Park area and decided this was the place for them. The problem was that they didn't want to move into a perfect home that had been previously renovated by someone else. They wanted to do it themselves. nine0003

When this house, ripe for expansion, was put up for sale, they snapped it up and assembled their tools, ready to turn it into their home. The building has grown into a garden, and the annex features a new open-plan kitchen, a bright and colorful space perfect for a couple's needs. The project cost them 90,027 £68,000.

14. £95,000 side return kitchen extension.

Mel and Alex Walker bought this three-bedroom house in south east London after realizing it had great potential. Lateral return was not used and provided an excellent opportunity for expansion. Luckily, there was an architect working in the same office building as Alex, so they hired him to work on their project. nine0003

The plan included a dining area next to the kitchen and a pitched roof; in this way they could incorporate Velux windows which, together with the double doors, would let in an abundant amount of light. To create their ideal addition, the couple spent £95,720 - an unreasonable amount for such an incredible home.

15. Gorgeous gray kitchen extension

Scandinavian style kitchen extension by Plus Rooms (opens in a new tab).

In this Lambeth extension, large skylights maximize the amount of light coming in to illuminate the covered kitchen space. A minimalist sliding door and window better accentuate the dining table and central kitchen island, which exude a contemporary Scandinavian kitchen vibe, while the gray color scheme helps maintain a cozy and slightly industrial look. For more gray kitchen ideas, take a look at our editorial. nine0003

16. Kitchen annex to Victorian floor

The construction of a side annex enabled Mike Martin and his wife Sasha to create a kitchen annex that gave the couple and their three children a 21st century kitchen/dining area. The north-facing extension features both double doors and a large window in the side wall to maximize the amount of light in the new open-plan room.

Kitchen design includes a central kitchen island as the main cooking area; it also has an oven, hob, sink and dishwasher. Meanwhile, the opposite side of the island is a bar counter and includes storage. nine0003

The room's dining area is directly connected to the garden and there is even space for armchairs to create a relaxed living room in the new room.

17. Colorful side return kitchen extension

Hilary Satchwell and her husband Richard Robinson lived in their home for over a decade before they extended it to a side entry to create a multipurpose kitchen-dining extension. The extension is small, but the modest extra square footage allowed the family to create a flexible kitchen, dining and living area in one space. Hilary loves bright colors and the cuisine reflects her taste. nine0003

To avoid feeling overlooked, the couple didn't opt ​​for skylights, but instead opted for large windows and doors on either side of the new room for the bright addition.

18. Kitchen-dining room with excellent access to the garden

As part of their project to add space and light to their 1930s junior suite, South African couple Veerusha Dia and her husband Yogesh Bhula added a kitchen-dining-living room extension. Virusha's goal was to open the doors of the extension and go straight into the garden. nine0003

The house had a basement, so the couple added a basement conversion to their plans, creating a new floor on the same level as the terrace. They also extended to the side to add a utility room.

The large kitchen island opens onto the garden and the furniture in the room is plywood for a finish of pure simplicity.

19. £85,000 kitchen extension.

Stuart Fife and Matt Davey decided to expand the kitchen of their Victorian terraced house to create a light and airy room - and incredibly sociable. nine0003

The design includes an island with a breakfast bar where friends can sit and chat, and the new dining area has room for 12 people. They opted for double doors for the new room that open onto a secluded garden, and now the room is perfect for entertaining, accommodating up to 100 people at a time!

20. Ultra-Modern Kitchen Add-on

The couple who own this Edwardian terrace removed a dilapidated old kitchen add-on and replaced it with a modern version to create the open plan kitchen, dining and living space they were after. nine0003

The sloping roof of the kitchen annex creates the maximum internal height of the space, and the room has a panoramic window in the dining area that offers a fantastic view of the garden, as well as sliding doors that open the annex to the garden.

The black kitchen is sleek and modern and designed to look like a carpenter's work for a striking and personal effect.

projects, materials, tips for choosing a foundation

The need for an extension often arises. From the point of view of technology, this type of construction can be considered as a reconstruction of a house with changes in the original project. And in this case, it is necessary to solve standard tasks: the choice of materials, the choice of a project, the calculation of the structure from the foundation to the roof, obtaining a building permit and execution of by-laws upon completion of construction in accordance with the current regulations. nine0003

Contents

What is better to make an extension

Materials for an extension can be any. They are usually chosen based on the materials of the house itself. It is clear that no one will build a brick veranda next to the frame house - not only the architectural appearance of the building, but also the foundation will be different. Therefore, they choose either similar materials, or something “easier”.

Frame extension

One of the most common extension options. This is due to at least the following advantages:

  • low material costs;
  • fits any type of foundation;
  • the ability to do the work with your own hands;
  • short construction time.

It is also important that the frame extension can be placed next to the house from any material, and then sheathed from the outside with wood or facade panels (siding), which will imitate any texture: brick, natural stone, log, timber, painted board, decorative plaster . nine0003 Finishing the outbuilding with siding

Attaching a frame veranda to a country wooden house:

An extension made of timber

A timber can be considered a universal material for an extension. It is used not only in frame construction as a load-bearing element, it often acts as an “independent” material. From it, you can build not only a closed extension next to a house made of timber, but also open verandas or covered terraces next to brick houses. nine0003

The same woodshed made of timber is a traditional extension of a country house or cottage that is heated with firewood.

Of course, the type of building timber depends on the purpose of the outbuilding and the materials of the house. It can be:

  • natural moisture timber, naturally dried;
  • kiln-dried timber;
  • glued timber.

The latter option, due to its high cost, is usually chosen for a closed extension if the house is built from a similar material. nine0003

Extension from foam or gas blocks

Along with the frame technology, construction from foam or gas silicate blocks is considered one of the most common. Usually, structural and heat-insulating aerated concrete blocks of the D500 or D600 brand are used.

The advantages of this material:

  • the possibility of using in the construction of self-supporting walls, provided that each 3-4 rows of reinforcement; nine0064
  • with a block thickness of 300-400 mm no additional insulation is needed;
  • low weight of the structure does not require a strong foundation;
  • large format (compared to ordinary brick) provides ease of laying and high construction speed.

The only drawback is the obligatory cladding. But in this case, you can use any traditional or modern materials - from plaster to facade panels.

Brick outbuilding

A brick outbuilding next to a brick house is solid and prestigious. If the foundation is made correctly, and it is correctly “tied” to the neighboring base, then, like the main building, the extension will stand for several decades.

In addition to longevity and respectability, brick has other advantages:

  • fire safety;
  • breathability, and the ability to maintain a good microclimate - takes away excess moisture even at high humidity and gives it back when there is a lack; nine0064
  • good thermal insulation and good heat capacity - the wall does not heat up for a long time in the heat and does not cool down quickly in the cold season.

Disadvantages include:

  • high weight of the walls, which implies the construction of a heavy foundation;
  • the need to use two types of bricks: ordinary and facing;
  • high labor intensity of masonry;
  • long construction time;
  • is a serious budget.
    • nine0077

    Glass extension

    Panoramic windows, glass doors and sliding systems make it possible to move away from the use of traditional materials in the arrangement of the extension. Tempered glass and triplex are an excellent material with high resistance to impacts and mechanical stress, and metal profiles of entrance doors and panoramic windows can be both “cold” and “warm”.

    Extension with double glazing in the doors and in the enclosing walls (panoramic windows) keep the temperature inside well, keeping warm in winter and cool in summer. If the thermal insulation of the enclosing structures is important, and the device should provide for the transformation of the extension into a semi-open summer veranda, then you can choose an accordion-type glass door based on a warm metal profile. nine0003

    With the use of not only sliding glass doors, but also windows, it is possible to transform a closed extension into a fully open one.

    In cases where a cold extension is being built, and it is important not to keep the heat, but to protect it from rain and wind, frameless sliding systems are used. Such systems also allow you to transform the glass railing to the width of one module, practically turning the extension into a terrace.

    Transparent ceilings allow you to look at the extension in a new way. Together with the same walls, they make the structure visually as open as possible, but at the same time protected.

    And a completely new solution can be called sliding systems, in which the main modules simultaneously act as both the front wall and the extension ceiling. Such designs allow you to transform a closed extension into an open terrace.

    Extension options

    The functional purpose of the outbuildings can be anything: a living room, a veranda, a heated or unheated garage, a workshop, a utility block, a bathroom, a summer kitchen, a pantry, a winter garden.

    Obviously, these rooms can be either heated or unheated. And in some cases, in addition to heating, there may be a complete set of engineering equipment: plumbing, sewerage, ventilation and air conditioning. Therefore, even at the design stage, it is necessary to provide for the supply of communications through the facade or basement of the main building. nine0003

    According to the location relative to the house, the outbuildings are of two types: side and frontal (including those overlooking the courtyard).

    Frontal frame extension

    Such an arrangement is not of fundamental importance - in most cases, when choosing materials for finishing the facade and for the roof, the principle of the unity of the architectural appearance dominates.

    Side extension

    Sometimes, a floor or attic superstructure is considered as an extension. But here a completely different approach to construction is already required. nine0003

    But no matter which version of the extension is chosen, the main task that must first be solved is the reliability of the foundation. It is from the foundation that not only the durability of the new structure depends, but also the fact that it will not “depart” from the house.

    Foundation for an extension

    Even a light extension needs a foundation. It will certainly be correct to make the new base identical to the old one. Although, if a cellar or basement is not equipped under the extension, then a strip foundation of a full profile is clearly redundant. nine0003

    There may be other exceptions - for example, for a frame extension next to a brick house, you can lay a pile foundation instead of a strip or slab foundation.

    There are three types of foundation for the extension:

    • tape shallow;
    • pile;
    • slab shallow-depth.

    A columnar foundation for an extension is appropriate only when it comes to building a very light structure: a porch or a terrace. nine0003

    Any other extension to an already standing house can behave unpredictably, and in this case it is incorrect to talk about a reliable connection between the two structures.

    How to connect two foundations

    The foundations of the extension and the house are connected in two ways: rigidly or through an expansion joint.

    A rigid connection is allowed if the house is on rocky or non-rocky ground, when the settlement of the new building is negligible. And this type of connection is made only for a monolithic tape. nine0003 Tape-tape connection

    Grills of pile and screw foundations are more difficult to rigidly tie, although possible. But most often they don’t do this, since all the same, the walls of light buildings (wooden, frame or gas-block) are connected using the expansion joint technology.

    Prefabricated strip foundations should not be rigidly connected at all, each foundation does not have structural rigidity, and rigidly interconnected blocks can become a focus of tension, working to worsen the bearing properties. nine0003

    Slab foundations, which, although they are monolithic, cannot be rigidly connected.

    "Floating" base, weak soils, prefabricated loads of houses and outbuildings of different sizes - these are the main factors that lead to stress and deformation of the junction, and this contributes to the appearance of cracks on the facades of buildings. In these cases, the slab foundation of the extension is made independent, with an expansion joint.

    On weak soils and subsidence soils, the foundations are connected only through an expansion joint. nine0028 The settlement of an already standing house is usually already minimal (one might say, almost over), and the new extension begins to settle, and any rigid connection will not withstand - cracks will appear in the junctions. To avoid this, they equip a deformation sedimentary seam that runs along all adjacent surfaces - from foundations to the roofs of two buildings.

    Options for connecting two strip foundations

    The geometry of the strip foundation of the extension in relation to the house can be of two types: with an open or closed loop. And you can link two ribbons in four ways:

    • Open loop, hard coupled. Along the junction line in the old foundation, holes are drilled in two rows in a checkerboard pattern for driving connections (bars of reinforcement). The depth of the holes should be equal to 35 bar diameters. The reinforcement is cut into pieces equal to two values ​​of the drilling depth, clogged and wedged in the holes, an armored belt is tied to them for the foundation of the extension.
    • Closed-loop, hard-coupled. Everything is the same as in the previous method, but the foundation of the extension has a completely independent closed contour, and holes for connections are drilled along the entire length of the old foundation in the junction spot. nine0064
    • Open loop with expansion joint. The foundation for the extension is closed with the ends to the foundation of the house. At the junctions of the new tape to the wall of the old foundation, foam sheets or roofing material (rubemast) folded several times are laid. After stripping, the gap is sealed with a sealant, and a rolled waterproofing is welded on top.
    • With closed loop and expansion joint. Everything is the same as in the previous method, but extruded polystyrene foam is laid along the entire abutment spot, and it serves as a formwork for the extension foundation. nine0064

    A simple solution from our subscriber:

    Connecting an extension on stilts to a house

    There are different options for connecting an extension on stilts and a house, regardless of the foundation on which it stands:

    • Piles - tape. The hanging grillage and the monolithic foundation are not rigidly connected (technically difficult and not necessary), but the wall of the extension and the facade of the house are connected using a “warm” expansion joint.
    • Piles - plate. The connection technology is similar to the previous version. nine0064
    • Piles - piles. It is possible to rigidly tie grillages under the facades of buildings. Wooden and metal grillages are tied with steel tapes, staples, trimmings of reinforcement. Reinforced concrete grillages can only be tied if the width of the beam allows drilling holes for reinforcement to a depth equal to 35 bar diameters.

    How to legalize an extension

    Any structure that has a common wall and a monolithic foundation with the house (that is, “connected” to the ground) refers to capital structures and is required to be registered with the relevant service (Rosreestr). nine0027 Without this, a fine will be imposed on the owner of the unauthorized extension, not to mention the fact that he will not be able to dispose of his property (bequeath, sell, officially lease).

    If the house stands on the land of the owner, has the appropriate design, all co-owners of the house have agreed to the reconstruction, and the rights of neighbors, as well as the norms of SNiP, SES and fire safety (distances to the boundaries of the plots, water intake points, etc.

    Learn more