Floating side return extension

3 years ago

Our 1970's 3 floor home has the kitchen/lounge on 1st floor. We are contemplating a floating side return extension just on first floor to give extra space plus light to lounge and kitchen. No private issues as next door is a park.

Is this just a stupid/crazy/expensive idea?? BTW we like the first floor kitchen as it gives nice view of the park, so we wouldn't want to move it downstairs.

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Comments (2)

Jonathan
3 years ago
I think you should phone your local planning office for advice. Personally I don’t think they will allow you to build up to your boundary.
PRO
i-architect
3 years ago
It really depends on your budget!!

It's quite a small additional space that you'll be able to create if you're planning to extend to the side. You'll need some structural support below it, because a cantilever to make it look like its floating will be very difficult technically to achieve and difficult stuff tends to cost a lot more in construction. Plus it will mean a big new structural opening between the extension and the existing first floor. It's also a bit tricky on the insulation side, though not impossible.

Ultimately it's up to you if its worth doing, but you'll probably spend more per square meter than you would if it was a single storey extension.

I doubt it would be too difficult to get planning permission for it, but it wouldn't be something that would be allowed under permitted development. So you'd need to factor in the additional time it takes for planning - typically add an extra 3-4 months plus a bit if it seems like it could be tricky!

So yes it could be done, but only you can decide if it will be ultimately worthwhile doing.

Hope this helps!

Best wishes with your home redesign!

Jane

chartered architect, eco-home and conservation area specialist

www.i-architect.co.uk

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Floating side return extension

Comments (2)

Jonathan

i-architect

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