As families grow and lifestyles evolve, the need for extra space becomes essential. Whether you want a larger kitchen, a brighter living area, or a seamless indoor-outdoor connection, a single storey extension offers a practical and stylish solution. It’s one of the most popular ways to enhance your home without the stress of moving — providing additional space, better functionality, and increased property value.
What Is a Single Storey Extension?
A single storey extension is a ground-floor addition built outward from the main structure of your house. Instead of expanding upward, it increases your home’s footprint horizontally. This type of extension can be added to the rear, side, or even wrap around two sides of the property, depending on your available space and design goals.
Single storey extensions are ideal for creating open-plan kitchen and dining areas, spacious family rooms, utility spaces, or home offices. Because they are built at ground level, they usually involve fewer structural complexities compared to multi-storey extensions, making them more straightforward and often more affordable to build.
Benefits of a Single Storey Extension
1. Cost-Effective Space Solution
Building outward is generally more economical than adding another floor. With a single storey extension, you can gain valuable living space without major changes to your home’s structural integrity.
2. Enhanced Living Experience
An extension gives you the freedom to redesign your layout — perhaps combining your kitchen, dining, and living areas into one beautiful open space. This creates a more modern flow and encourages family interaction.
3. Natural Light and Connection to Outdoors
Single storey extensions allow you to incorporate wide windows, bi-fold doors, or skylights, filling your home with natural light. This not only makes your interior feel brighter but also enhances the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
4. Increased Property Value
A well-planned extension can significantly boost your home’s resale value. Buyers are often drawn to properties that feature modern, open spaces with flexible layouts.
5. Less Disruption During Construction
Because all work is done at ground level, construction tends to be less intrusive and faster compared to upper-storey builds. You can often continue living in your home throughout the process.
The Process of Building a Single Storey Extension
1. Design and Planning
The first step is understanding your needs and visualising how the new space will integrate with your existing home. Detailed plans are drawn up to capture your ideas while complying with planning regulations.
2. Planning Permission
In many cases, a single storey extension can be built under permitted development rights, but it’s important to confirm this with your local authority. Professional designers can guide you through the approval process and ensure compliance.
3. Building Regulations and Structural Design
Once planning is approved, technical drawings and structural calculations are prepared to ensure the extension is safe and meets all building standards.
4. Construction Phase
Construction includes groundwork, foundations, structure, roofing, insulation, and internal finishes. Clear communication between you and the builder ensures everything runs smoothly and on schedule.
5. Finishing Touches
Once the main build is complete, attention turns to interior design — flooring, lighting, colour schemes, and furnishings that bring the new space to life.
Key Design Tips for a Successful Single Storey Extension
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Match or complement existing materials for a cohesive look.
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Use large glazing panels or skylights to maximise light.
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Consider the flow between rooms and garden access.
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Plan heating, ventilation, and insulation early in the design process.
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Think long-term — create flexible spaces that can adapt to future needs.
Final Thoughts
A single storey extension is more than just an extra room — it’s an opportunity to transform how you live. It can open up your home, improve comfort, and create an inviting, modern space tailored to your lifestyle. With thoughtful design, expert planning, and quality craftsmanship, your extension can blend seamlessly with your existing home while adding value and character for years to come.