Nicola Thomas from Arch angels on building upwards
If you own a small detached house or bungalow and need a bigger home, but moving or extending outwards is not suitable for your needs, then building upwards could be an option. Perhaps you want to increase the size of your property without impacting on your outside space. Maybe you wish to maximise the current value of your home. Or, when it comes to extending your property, you would rather make the most of the building’s footprint with more cost effective, sustainable design solutions.
Extending upwards enables you to create more floor space within a smaller building footprint. In addition to maintaining and maximising the floor plan of your house, making use of the existing structure and services can be more cost effective and time efficient than building a new property.
Points to consider
• Do your research on the building and surrounding area. Note: upwards extensions are most suitable for small detached houses and bungalows but context is key. i.e. neighbouring properties will have influence on the likelihood of extending upwards – see examples.
• Take account of your budget and whether or not an extension will add value
• Check with your Local Authority as planning permission is required for upwards extensions (www.planningportal.gov.uk)
• Seek advice from builders, architects and structural engineers before work begins as well as throughout the design and build process
• Choose materials and a design that will enhance/improve and update the existing building.
• Incorporate sustainable, energy efficient and environmentally friendly design
The Wignall House
A dramatic upwards extension; transforming a bungalow into a modern ‘upside-down’ three-storey house to optimise views and increase desirability in the local area. Incorporating sustainable features including highly insulated timber construction, high performance double glazing and under floor heating to help save energy and reduce carbon emissions.
Art Deco house
Transformation of a pitched hip roofed bunglaow into a stylish three-storey Art Deco building with flat roof terraces to maximise the ‘seaside’ nature of the property as well as make the most of its stunning sea views.
To see more on the above projects please visit www.aaarchitects.co.uk/projects-one-off-houses
Why not let us help you with the ‘build-up’ of your dream home?
Richard Zinzan and Nicola Thomas are founders of ARCH-angels Architects in Brighton, an approachable local practice specialising in environmentally conscious and cost effective architecture. We work closely with you to maximise your space and provide beautiful integrated buildings.
t 01273 267184
e info@aaarchitects.co.uk
w www.aaarchitects.co.uk
