As Bristol continues to grow in size, and house prices are still rising, many homeowners are looking for ways to extend their homes while retaining the original property's character. Whether it’s because of a growing family or a change in lifestyle like working from home, an extra room or two can make a big difference and a home extension can offer the perfect solution.

In addition to creating space, a home extension can also increase the property's value and make it more energy efficient. In many cases, an extension will create a more functional layout, opening up the kitchen to the living room or adding an en-suite bathroom. Extensions can be designed to improve the appearance of a property, to blend in with the existing architecture or to make a bold, modern statement.

Single Story Extensions

A single story house extension is a home addition of only one level. Single story extensions can take many different forms, from simple sunrooms to larger additions, including multiple rooms. A popular use of a single story extension would be to create a large kitchen diner at the back of a house or can be used to add an extra bedroom, bathroom, home office or playroom.

A single story home extension can be a more affordable option as it will typically cost less than multi-story extension. A single storey extension can be designed to blend seamlessly with the existing property, whilst also providing additional living space.

Single story house extensions often come under permitted development which means that you might not need planning permission for a single story home extension in Bristol.

Two-Storey Extensions / Multi Extensions

A two story or multi extension refers to any type of extension over two more or floors. If you have the space and the right planning permission, a multi level extension can be built onto any part of the house and could be used to dramatically change or alter the exterior of your building if that is something you are looking to do.

Two story home extensions in Bristol will always need planning permission, but in our experience, this shouldn't prove an issue. We can help advise you on what is likely to be approved before you submit your planning application.

A multi story home extension can dramatically alter the layout of your home, helping you make the very best use of space.

Kitchen Extensions

Kitchen extensions in Bristol are currently incredibly popular, with many homeowners in Victorian style terraced houses choosing to knock down their existing galley kitchens and extend out into the side return to create a large open plan kitchen diner.

An open plan kitchen extension creates a useable, family friendly space, perfect for entertaining and socialising. Bifold doors leading out onto the garden are ideal for family life and create a light, airy and welcoming space.

A modern kitchen extension will add value to your property, and many of clients choose ceiling lanterns, pendant lights and large kitchen islands to complete their kitchen extension.

Side Return Extensions

Bristol is full of terraced and semi-detached houses and adding a side return extension is one of the best ways of increasing and improving the space in these types of houses.

A side return extension is often carried out in the kitchen area at the back of the house, and the side return refers to the pathway that runs alongside the ground floor of your home, which is often unused and makes a perfect space to build the extension.

A side return extension may involve knocking down an existing kitchen or can be achieved by removing just one wall. In which case, the extension can be finished with a glazed roof for lots of natural light. A side return home extension will often not require planning permission if

it falls under permitted development.

Wraparound Extensions

A wrap-around home extension (or L-shaped extension) refers to an extension to the rear and side of a house, wrapped around the existing home, adding both width and depth. A wrap around extension can be used to change the whole look of your property and can be utilised if you don't have a huge amount of outdoor space to extend into. A wrap around extension can bring a lot of natural light into your home and are increasingly popular with homeowners in Bristol looking to add value and space.

Planning your Home Extension in Bristol

By Design appreciate that extending your home is a big decision to be taken lightly.

There are factors to consider such as the impact on your neighbours, as well as the additional cost and disruption involved.

If done well, a home extension can be a great way to improve your quality of life.

As trusted and experienced home extension builders in Bristol, we can help advise you on the best way to extend your home, taking into account the existing structure and planning regulations. A well-designed home extension can modernise your property and add value. We are here to help you transform your home into the ideal space you have always dreamed of.