Looking for ideas for a stylish ground floor extension? Jane Crittenden sets out what you need to know at the planning phase, and picks out some stunning designs to inspire your project

The extension on this renovated Surrey bungalow was drawn up by Paul Archer Design, with a 14.5m main steel beam running across the full width to create an uninterrupted space with an expanse of glazing. An internal sliding door separates the front living room with the option to increase the area for entertaining. Including the extension and a whole-house renovation, the total project cost was £390,000

KILIAN O’SULLIVAN

Adding a single storey extension is a great way to bring more space and value to your home. It might even be more cost effective than moving to a bigger property! Over the next couple of pages I’m exploring where to start if you’re planning a home extension, so you’re armed with the right info to get going.

Navigating the permissions

In the main, building a single storey rear extension comes under what’s known as permitted development (PD) rights, meaning you can proceed without applying to your council for formal planning permission. Broadly speaking, owners of semi-detached and terraced houses in the UK can extend by 3m, and on detached houses by 4m.

There are some sensible caveats to these rules, however. The new space can’t be more than half the size of your land, nor be higher than 4m. If within 2m of the boundary, the eaves cannot be higher than 3m. In the case of a side extension, the size must not be more than half the width of the house, nor be over 4m. Planning permission is needed for a wraparound or front extension.

In England, it’s possible to go bigger within PD rules (up to 8m for detached houses and 6m for others) but this is considered a ‘Larger Home Extension’ and requires Prior Approval from the council. This limited process aims to assess the impact on your neighbours. Also, if the work is near to your neighbour’s boundary or along walls you share, you’ll need to comply with the Party Wall Act.