Wondering how to extend your semi-detached house? We asked a range of architects for their views on the best ways to approach this common project
Around 60% of the UK population live in semidetached houses* so it should come as no surprise that extending a semi is one of the most popular projects undertaken by homeowners keen to make the most of their properties.
Semi-detached houses have so much going for them when it comes to building an extension, particularly compared to terraced houses, yet often their full potential isn’t reached.
“There needs to be more glamour in the name semi-detached,” says Robert Wilson, principal architect at Granit Architecture + Interiors. “Far from the image of suburban enclaves of vegetable growers following the good life, semis are excellent for creating a large, spacious home.”
ASSESS WHAT YOU ALREADY HAVE
Take a good look at what you already have (as well as what you want to achieve) before splashing out on an expensive and disruptive extension project.
“We’d recommend starting off by considering what does and doesn’t work about your current house, and from there considering what (if any) additional space would genuinely enhance your lifestyle and bring you joy,” advises Sarah Broadstock, associate architect at Studio Bark. In some cases it could be that thoughtfully reorganising the current layout could really open up and expand what you already have.
“You don’t necessarily need to add a large extension or masses of space to achieve the home you want. More efficient use of the existing space can often be better than adding more floor area,” says architect Stuart Fullerton of Wildblood Macdonald. “Give thought to how you use the existing space. Cutting circulation space down to a minimum could help.”
GETTING PL ANNING PERMISSION
Not all extensions to semidetached houses will fall under your Permitted Development (PD) rights. “It may sound obvious, but before you get started it’s a good idea to check the planning portal website for information on what you might be able to extend under Permitted Development rights,” advises Sarah Broadstock. “That said, don’t shy away from seeking a planning application —in the grand scheme of a building project, the time and cost of submitting a planning application is relatively small.”
“On occasion, Permitted Development rights can present greater development opportunities than proceeding via a householder planning application,” says Jason Laity, director of Unity Architects. “Contrary to most people’s understanding, Permitted Development is not a simplistic process. The householder technical guide is a 50-page document, which needs to be read carefully and applied with accu
