Double Storey Side Extension Creating Open-Plan Living & Principal Bedroom
This double storey side extension transformed a much-loved 1920s home in St Albans by creating generous, practical living spaces designed for the next chapter of the homeowners’ lives. By extending to the side of the property, the project delivers an open-plan ground floor layout alongside a new principal bedroom and shower room, all while respecting the character and balance of the existing house.
The Challenge
For this double storey extension project, the homeowners wanted to create more practical and open living spaces after more than 30 years in their home. The challenge was to design a layout that improved day-to-day living on the ground floor while also providing comfortable, future-ready accommodation upstairs.
A side extension offered the opportunity to create a generous ‘L’-shaped kitchen, dining, and sitting room, alongside a new principal bedroom with en-suite facilities, without compromising the rest of the home.
Our Solution & Design Approach
Our in-house architectural design team developed a double storey side infill extension that reconfigured the existing small ground floor rooms into a larger ‘L’-shaped kitchen, dining, and sitting space.
Planning approval was secured to allow a side extension with a structural breakthrough that opened up the ground floor while retaining one separate enclosed room for flexibility and potential future use.
At first floor level, the new principal bedroom was designed to take advantage of the roof space above, creating a vaulted ceiling that enhances light and volume. The remainder of the first floor layout was retained, preserving existing bedrooms and the family bathroom while adding valuable new accommodation.
The Build Process
The double storey extension build is progressing through a carefully phased construction process. Initial works included stripping back the existing roof, constructing the new extension roof, and completing the structural breakthroughs on both ground and first floors.
Internally, ceilings were removed throughout to allow full access for rewiring and new plumbing installations, bringing the property up to current Building Regulation standards. With the main structural works completed, the project is moving into the reinstatement phase, where services are finalised and the home is rebuilt into a warm, comfortable environment ready for occupation.
Still Under Construction
Once complete, this double storey extension will provide the homeowners with beautifully balanced living and sleeping spaces that support comfortable, flexible living in later life.
The new layout enhances usability, improves flow, and adds long-term value, allowing the home to continue creating memories for many years to come.
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