London home extension: 5 ideas

Five ways to make an extension more interesting

An extension adds space and value. It also opens up many choices about materials, doors, roof and light. Here are five worth considering.

Combine materials

Break away from the plain brick extension. For a more exciting design, we recommend covering the extension with timber cladding. For contrast, use dark zinc cladding. Maybe spice the traditional brick extension up with a fully glassed corner.

Rooflights

Enough natural light in the interior is always a struggle. This is especially so when extending a property. Besides picking the right doors and windows, you can add light with rooflights. A glass lantern also works. It also provides ventilation during summer.

Orangeries or conservatories

For a more delicate-looking home extension, we recommend orangeries or conservatories.

The conservatory has a brick base with a glass structure pitched glazed roof. If you want a more heat-retaining solution, pick an orangery. Orangeries have a solid brick structure with large glazing. They have a flat roof with a glass lantern.

Glass box extensions

You have to be extra committed to keeping this one clean. A glass box is a fully glazed extension, modern and unforgiving. If your property has enough space, a glass box extension won’t be a problem.

Multi storey extensions

Why stop at a single storey when the structure could carry two? Extend at the rear, then build upwards. Glazing, timber and zinc can be combined on the elevation. Note that an extension over 4m requires planning permission.

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