If you want to create your dream home but don’t want to move, extending and remodelling are the two main avenues available. So, which is best for you? In this post, we’ll discuss what both options entail and how to choose between them.
It goes without saying that extensions are an extra section added to your home, typically at the rear – though they can also be at the side and front in certain circumstances. They’re the go-to option for people who want a little more from their home, whether that’s down to space alone or function.
But what exactly does a remodel involve? While some think it’s just a renovation, a remodel goes further, changing the entire layout of your home to suit your requirements. That can include altering a room’s shape, changing different rooms’ purposes, or combining rooms for an open-plan design, for example.
When choosing between an extension and remodel, the first factor to consider is the space available outside your home and how important it is to you. If you have a large garden and you’re happy to sacrifice some of it for the benefit of your interiors, then great – an extension could be ideal.
However, houses with smaller outdoor spaces are typically better suited to remodelling. Eating away at a garden that’s already small could impact how much value your improvements add to your home – not to mention your own enjoyment of it. In contrast, remodels don’t affect your exterior space at all.
Next on the list are the costs involved. This one is simple – extending is almost always more expensive than remodelling. That’s because it requires a roof and external walls, not to mention new foundations – and that’s before you even get started on everything inside.
Of course, that’s for good reason. It provides additional space inside your home, which is always highly sought-after. However, if you’re happy with the actual amount of space and just want to make the most of it, a remodel is the better option.
Let’s not forget planning permission. Unless you’re living in a listed building, you don’t need any permission to remodel your home – though you may want to double-check with your local authority for your property’s permitted development rights.
On the flipside, it can be tricky to keep an extension within the conditions of a permitted development – with requirements for roof height, boundaries, position and materials used. In many cases, you’ll need to apply for a planning permission, which makes the process lengthier and more expensive.
Above all else, the decision comes down to your limitations and driving factors – what exactly do you want or need from your home improvement? And is it possible with the space and budget available?
If you know full-well that your house is too small for your needs, an extension might be the only option. That could be due to a new arrival, or just the desire for a bigger kitchen. But always consider whether there’s any unused or underused space within your home. If so, a remodel could pave the way for that bigger kitchen or extra bedroom without the need to extend.
When choosing between an extension or remodel, the most important thing to remember is that it’s you that will be living in your dream home. Don’t rush the decision or make it simply because of one factor, like avoiding planning permission. Instead, it’s best to get expert advice to figure out what’s possible with both avenues.
As an award-winning team of UK architects, CODA Bespoke can provide that expert insight to make your decision easier – and help you with your remodel and extension to make sure you get exactly what you want from the process. To find out more, give our team a call on 0114 279 4931 or email hello@codabespoke.co.uk.
