Consult an architect

Many people believe they need to extend when in fact they could simply rejig the space they have. If you are thinking about increasing the size of your property or changing the layout you should probably at least speak to an architect, especially as the initial consultation is usually free. Lots of RIBA (Royal Institution of British Architects) qualified architects are one-man bands who take on small jobs like home extensions or remodels. An architect can look at the smallest space and visualise how to make it work better.

Assessing your needs

Before embarking on any home improvement project, it’s essential to assess your current needs and what you aim to achieve. Consider the aspects of your home that you’re unhappy with and areas you want to improve. Do you need a bigger kitchen, extra bedroom, more natural light or storage space? What is top of your wish list? If you have a home with a generous garden, extending your home is a real possibility. But if outside space is limited, a major advantage of reconfiguring your existing house rather than extending is you don’t need to sacrifice any garden. Identifying your specific requirements will help guide your decision-making process.

Get a survey done

Once you have identified your needs take a close look at your home’s existing layout. Get a measured survey and accurate, scaled drawings of the floorplan to help see if there is any under-used space you could transform. The biggest difference between older homes and those built today isn’t size but layout. Older homes tend to have a warren of small rooms whereas modern houses benefit from bright, open plan layouts. 

Could your dream kitchen-diner be achieved by knocking down internal walls? Converting the garage has become a popular way to add a much-needed room without extending. If you need an extra bedroom, could you use the loft space? It will almost certainly be cheaper to remodel than build a new extension with new walls, roof and foundations. An extension should only be considered once all other options for remodeling your existing home have been rejected.

De-clutter

Do you struggle to find a clear surface to put a coffee cup down or stub your toe on your daughter’s bike left in the hallway? Is your furniture too big and bulky? Is that why you need more space? A big spring clean and a ruthless decluttering is a good place to start. “Tidying can transform your life,” promises Japanese decluttering evangelist Marie Kondo. About 11 million people have bought her book, ‘The life-changing magic of tidying up.’  Keep only things that are useful or “spark joy,” she exhorts.  When you see how much space you have, you may not want to start knocking down walls and building new ones.

Think creatively

Ask an architect for ideas. Unlike builders, they are trained design professionals who have the expertise to assess your needs, your home’s potential and offer creative solutions. They can provide detailed floor plans, reimagine the space, help you understand the cost implications of different solutions and guide you through the planning and construction phases. A local architect’s professional expertise and creativity will add real value.

Additionally, find out what your neighbours have done to maximise their living space. If there is no way you – or preferably an experienced architect – can work out how to squeeze more living space from your existing home, then you’re on your way to extending.

Do your sums

One of the most critical factors in deciding whether to extend or remodel is the cost involved. Remodeling can be a more cost-effective solution, particularly if it involves reconfiguring the existing space without major structural change. Get estimates of the materials and labour involved, adding at least 10% on top for unforeseen works. Take time to do this and consult professionals, including a structural engineer and builder.

Besides the initial costs, it’s crucial to consider how much value your proposed project will add to your home. Whether the return on investment (ROI) is in terms of monetary value or how much enjoyment you will get out of the house, consider the long-term implications. It’s thought a loft conversion can add 15% to your home’s value. A kitchen remodel and garage conversion can have a similar effect. But the ROI entirely depends on your property, the local market and your potential buyers.

Do you need planning permission?

The planning hurdle is likely to be lower for a remodel than an extension. There is no need to submit a planning application to knock down internal walls or convert the loft or garage into a livable space, providing the work is internal. That said, most small extensions won’t require planning permission either because they come under permitted development rights, though larger ones will. The main exception is if your home is listed, in which case you will need listed building consent for any work.

Be aware you will still need to apply for building control approval for structural changes, including ripping out internal walls. It’s always best to check the rules with planningportal.gov.uk or call your planning office.

Practical considerations & environmental sustainability

Think about the practical aspects of extending or remodeling your home. Extensions may take longer and require you to move out of your home temporarily or endure noise and disruption. Remodeling, while less invasive, can still create inconveniences, such as dust and limited access to certain areas of your home. 

Reconfiguring your existing space is likely to be more environmentally sustainable than building a new extension from scratch. But much will depend on your approach. A homeowner who extends and salvages and recycles materials may be greener than someone who remodels and sends all the waste to landfill.

Blend old with new

A popular option is a boxy, single storey addition to the back of the house, often used to make the kitchen bigger, add a dining space and maybe a utility area. But will you be left with a small, dark living room at the front of the house? The best solution, if possible, may be a complete remodel to maximise natural light and create a good layout.  Think about how to integrate the old space with the new. Natural light and flow are big issues: both need to be thought through before the project starts.

Deciding whether to extend or remodel requires a careful analysis of your needs, consideration of floor plans, cost evaluation, and assessment of financial implications. Consulting a local architect is highly recommended at the start of the process. Ultimately, whether you remodel or extend, the aim is to enhance your living space and make the most of your investment.

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