Like all home improvement projects, planning is key when it comes to pulling off a house extension. Want to know more about how to set yourself up for success? In this hands-on guide, we'll dive into the dos and don’ts of extensions, with insights and tips from the CODA Bespoke team.
Planning can make all the difference when executing a home extension, which is why several of the dos listed below focus on preparation, organisation and design.
Kicking off your extension journey without a decent amount of experience under your belt is akin to setting sail on uncharted waters. When you’re dealing with major concerns like the structural integrity of a building and the flow/functionality of living space, the concept of ‘winging it’ isn’t an option.
Instead, seek the advice of professionals who can help steer your project towards success. Whether it’s an established architecture firm to bring your vision to life or an experienced general contractor to streamline the building process, professionals can provide invaluable insights throughout the extension process.
Construction noise is inevitable during any home extension project, so it pays to establish good relationships with your neighbours as early as possible. This can help enormously when it comes to obtaining planning permissions and overcoming other hurdles down the line.
Plus, engaging in open communication with your neighbours isn’t just polite. It’s an opportunity to build a supportive community, source local recommendations and potentially gain valuable insights from those who've navigated similar projects in the past.
Every home has a story to tell, whether it’s a character-soaked period property or a modern build. Understanding the unique history of your property, including past modifications and structural nuances, can be incredibly helpful when planning an extension. This information can often serve as a foundation for architects, allowing them to explore ideas and design an extension that complements, rather than competes, with the existing structure.
Designing a dream extension is a highly creative process. Even when working closely with an architect, there’s generally lots of room for input from the homeowner.
At CODA Bespoke, we always encourage our clients to source inspiration from various media, whether it’s flicking through design magazines, scrolling through online platforms or connecting with homeowners who have pulled off similar projects. Creating a mood board can help you articulate your vision and provide architects with visual prompts to bring your dream extension to life.
The world is rapidly embracing sustainable practices and the building sector is no exception. From green building materials and energy-efficient technologies to sustainable design principles, integrating eco-friendly elements into your extension can be both responsible and rewarding.
The pitfalls of home extension projects often present themselves only when it's already too late. For homeowners, this can cause stress, timeline delays and financial challenges. Below, we breakdown some of the most common gaffes to avoid when navigating home extensions.
One of the biggest faux pas homeowners make when planning extensions is underestimating the complexity of the process. From securing planning permissions and addressing structural engineering challenges to sourcing unique building materials, most stages take more time than you might think. A realistic understanding of the intricacies of extensions will help prepare you for potential hurdles along the way.
Set your extension project up for success with a watertight design. There’s no such thing as too much detail when it comes to your blueprint. After all, your planning documents should not only outline your overall vision but serve as a practical guide for construction and a reference point for all contractors involved.
Finances are the backbone of most home extension projects – a fact that underscores the need for a realistic budget. Consider not only construction costs but also unforeseen expenses. A realistic and well-thought-out budget will ensure that your dream extension remains a source of joy without turning into a financial burden.
Time is of the essence in any construction project, especially extensions that involve multiple different trades and contractors. Collaborating with an experienced architecture firm can help establish a detailed timeline. Regular check-ins ensure that the project stays on track, with minimal delays and disruptions.
While some flexibility is acceptable, straying too far from the initial plan can lead to complications. At CODA Bespoke, we always advise homeowners to communicate any changes promptly and most importantly, consult with professionals to assess their impact. At the end of the day, a well-planned extension with minimal deviations from the original blueprint, is more poised for success.
As hurdles like high house prices, rising interest rates and economic instability continue to plague the UK property market, extensions will continue to win over homeowners. They represent an opportunity to not only enhance your lifestyle and living spaces but to strategically increase the value of your property.
Whether you’re looking to breathe new life into a dated property, add an extra wing to your home or create flow between your indoor and outdoor living spaces, keeping these dos and don'ts in mind can help you embark on any extension journey with confidence.
Remember, extensions aren’t just about expanding your living space. They’re about creating spaces that reflects elevate your lifestyle, reflect individuality and improve the value of your home. Your dream space awaits, so brief the team at CODA Bespoke today or check out some of our house extension projects.
