Double Storey Extensions

The types of double-storey extensions, including rear, side, front, wrap-around, and over-structure, can vary in style and function. Here’s a breakdown of the potential variations within each type:

Rear Double Storey Extensions

• Traditional – Extends across the full width of the back of the house, often to add living space and bedrooms.
• L-shaped – Wraps around a corner of the house, suitable for L-shaped properties, adding considerable space.
• Glass-dominated – Features large glass panels or bi-folding doors to enhance natural light and indoor-outdoor flow.

Side Double Storey Extensions

• Narrow plot – Utilises the narrow space at the side of the house, perfect for semi-detached homes needing additional rooms.
• Infill – Fills the gap between two properties or building wings, efficiently using available space.
• Tandem – Extends both front and rear, creating a long, continuous extension along the side.

Front Double Storey Extensions

• Porch addition – Incorporates a new entrance area with rooms above, enhancing the frontage and functionality.
• Full-frontal – Extends across the entire front, significantly increasing the size and face value of the property.
• Bay window extensions – Expands existing frontage features, adding space and architectural interest.

Wrap-around Double Storey Extensions

• Full wrap-around – Encloses two sides of the house, dramatically increasing space and offering multiple layout redesigns.
• Partial wrap-around – Extends around a corner of the house, combining rear and side extensions efficiently.

Over-structure Extensions

• Garage conversions – Adds a second storey above garages, integrating it into the main house.
• Existing extension expansion – Builds on top of a previous single storey extension, such as a sunroom or conservatory.
• Outbuilding additions – Extends over structures detached from the main house, like workshops or standalone garages, linking them to the main living space.

Each of these types can be tailored to the specific needs and constraints of the property, ensuring the extension not only increases space but also adds value and enhances the home’s character.

Designing a double storey extension requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure it enhances both your property and the surrounding area effectively.

Key Considerations Include:

• Affordability – Determine your budget to decide on the feasible scale and type of your double storey extension.
• Planning – Ensure your designs adhere to local planning regulations and development rights, considering the increased scrutiny often associated with larger extensions.
• Buildability – Evaluate the construction feasibility of your design, considering the additional structural support needed for a second storey.
• Space Utilisation – Plan how to maximise the utility of the added vertical space to meet your lifestyle and needs effectively.
• Lighting – Strategize natural and artificial lighting to maintain a well-lit and functional extension on both levels.
• Neighbour Impact – Assess the extension’s impact on neighbours, considering privacy, overshadowing, and your ongoing relationship.
• Aesthetics – Aim for an extension that not only complements but also enhances the existing structure and the street scene.
• Practicality – Design for practical, everyday use while considering long-term flexibility and functionality.

Integrating New with Old

Evaluate how the new extension will merge with the existing structure. Double storey extensions require careful consideration of architectural harmony and structural integration.

Plan Integration Points Carefully

Ensure doorways, ceiling levels, and floor heights create a seamless transition, maintaining consistency and flow between old and new spaces.

Layout and Functionality

Consider open-plan or segmented layouts based on your needs, ensuring a cohesive flow throughout the extended areas. Think about the relationship between ground and first-floor spaces to optimise the extension’s functionality.

Windows, Doors, and Natural Light

Design window and door placements to optimise daylight in both storeys, enhancing views and the connection with outdoor spaces. Consider the visual impact of the extension from both inside and outside.

Exterior Design and Materials

Select materials and design elements that either harmonise with or tastefully contrast the existing building, taking into account the extension’s visibility and prominence.

By addressing these elements, a double storey extension can significantly enhance your home, providing additional space and functionality while respecting the architectural integrity and context of the existing property.

Understanding the need for planning permission is a key step in your double storey extension project. Here’s how to navigate the process:

Do You Need Planning Permission?

In many cases, double storey extensions in Manchester can be constructed under permitted development rights, meaning you might not need formal planning permission. This allowance depends on various factors, including the size and location of the extension.

Building Without Planning Permission

You can proceed with a double storey extension without planning permission if your project complies with the specified limits of permitted development. These guidelines typically cover aspects like the height and depth of the extension and its distance from property boundaries.

Size Limits Under Permitted Development

The permissible dimensions for an extension without planning permission are determined by regulations that consider the type of dwelling, its setting, and the proportion of land to be covered by the new structure.

When Planning Permission is Required

Projects that exceed the scope of permitted development must seek planning permission from the local authority, in this case, Manchester City Council. The application process requires submitting detailed plans that illustrate how the proposed extension will look and fit within the property.

Our Assistance with Planning

Our expertise in architectural design includes creating plans that adhere to permitted development rules and successfully obtaining planning permission when needed. We can manage the entire application process, from drafting the initial designs to submitting the required documents to Manchester City Council for example, ensuring that your extension has the best chance of approval. Click here for a quote

By understanding the specifics of planning permission and utilising our professional services, you can ensure that your double storey extension progresses smoothly and meets all legal requirements.

Building regulations ensure that your double storey extension is safe, structurally sound, and environmentally efficient. Here’s how we manage the compliance process

• Our architectural plans are meticulously detailed to align with the latest approved building regulations, covering structural aspects like foundations, walls, roofs, insulation, and fire safety.
• We specify the necessary construction details, including drainage systems, materials, and methods. Our specifications guarantee the use of suitable materials and adherence to British standards, ensuring the build’s quality and safety.
• We coordinate with third-party experts such as structural engineers, integrating their designs and calculations for a comprehensive and compliant plan set, ready for approval.
• You can choose to use local authority building control or private building inspectors to oversee the regulatory compliance of your project.
• Our service includes creating detailed building regulations plans and specifications that address crucial aspects like structural integrity, sound insulation, access, drainage, energy efficiency, ventilation, and emergency escape routes.
• We submit these plans for a full plan check, amending as necessary to meet the strict requirements of building regulations. Once approved, these plans establish the construction and inspection standards for your extension.
• The approved plans guide the construction process and serve as a detailed reference for obtaining accurate quotations from builders.

This approach ensures every aspect of your double storey extension is designed and constructed to meet rigorous standards, providing peace of mind and a quality addition to your home.