Bring the Family Together with a Single Storey Extension
Our clients wanted to create a sociable, open-plan living space that worked better for family life. With a modest kitchen and separate living areas, the layout of their home didn’t reflect how they wanted to live day to day. They approached us to explore whether a single storey extension could open up the space and give them the flexibility they were looking for.
The Vision
The key aim was to build a rear extension that would allow for a spacious kitchen/diner and family area that flowed seamlessly into the garden. The clients wanted a space where they could cook, eat, relax, and entertain all in one place. They also wanted to bring in as much natural light as possible, making the new extension feel open and airy all year round.
The Solution
We began by exploring layout and extension options using 3D drawings, so the clients could visualise the space before work began. This helped them refine the position of key features like the dining table, kitchen layout, and seating zones.
We then designed and built a single storey rear extension that connected the indoor and outdoor spaces beautifully. Wide sliding doors and large rooflights brought in natural light, while the open-plan layout gave the family the room they needed to cook, dine and relax together. Careful material choices ensured the new space complemented the original house.
As with all our projects, we handled everything from planning applications to build management, ensuring the work progressed smoothly and on schedule.
The Results
The finished extension has completely transformed the way the clients use their home. What was once a series of separate rooms is now one large, versatile family space flooded with natural light. The clients now have a modern kitchen, generous dining area, and comfortable sitting space – all opening up to the garden for a relaxed, indoor-outdoor feel.
They were delighted with the result and especially appreciated being able to see and tweak the design during the planning phase.
Before & After
Before:
- A small, enclosed kitchen and separate living spaces
- Limited natural light in key family areas
- Disconnected layout that didn’t suit modern family life
- No clear connection between indoor space and garden
After:
- A bright, open-plan kitchen/dining/family area
- Seamless flow from the home to the garden via sliding doors
- Spacious, sociable layout perfect for daily life and entertaining
- Beautiful natural light from rooflights and large windows
A single storey extension that enhanced both form and function
Key Takeaways
- Small changes can have a big impact: A single storey extension can totally transform the way a home feels and functions.
- Light matters: Rooflights and large doors helped bring daylight into the heart of the home.
- Design before build: Using 3D visuals gave the clients confidence and control over the final layout.
- Family-focused design: Open-plan layouts work brilliantly for modern family life.
- Planning to completion support: Having one team handle everything ensured a smooth and efficient process.