Extensions & Alterations

More space, without moving

Single and two-storey rear extensions, side returns, porches and wrap-arounds across Norfolk and Suffolk — designed to get consented.

Home extensions have become increasingly popular. Before adding anything, we look at the space you already have — under-used rooms, awkward circulation and poor connections to the garden often solve more than square metres do.

A rear extension changes how the whole house works, not just the room it adds. We design the alteration alongside it, so the new space improves the existing plan rather than being bolted onto it.

Whether you need planning permission depends on the size, the position on the plot and whether the property is listed, in a conservation area or has had permitted development rights removed. We establish that at the outset.

How an extension project runs

The same six RIBA stages, applied to a domestic extension.

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Stage 1 — Preparation and Brief

Stage 1 is where we begin to understand your project. We are really interested in your project objectives and if you have a project budget. We often need to have a look at your property and assess the location and context before providing any advice. It’s important at this stage that we can clearly define your Project Brief, including spatial requirements.

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Stage 2 — Concept Design

Stage 2 is where the design of your project really comes to life. Initially, we observe and record project opportunities and constraints onto a Site Analysis drawing. This can include details of; site access, restrictions from neighbouring properties, overlooking, noise, sun-paths, levels, views, security, local planning policies and historic maps etc. This research can make all the difference resulting in a design that makes the most of the site for your needs, and that is favourable in obtaining planning permission. We also record and update your project brief and any project strategies for approval.

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Stage 3 — Spatial Coordination

Stage 3 is where the final concept design is formalised for planning approval or permitted development. The design evolves to include selected specifications and coordination with other consultants is carried out as required. A check review of Building Regulations at this stage ensures the design is compliant and ready to move forwards without significant changes. It’s important to develop and integrate the key features of a project at this stage, including strategies for sustainable design.

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Stage 4 — Technical Design

Stage 4 is when all the technical design for your project is prepared. This includes detailed drawings and specifications for a contractor to price. As lead designer we often recommend any relevant additional Consultant Contacts required at this stage and often help with obtaining quotes for their involvement. If they have not already been appointed, this can include Structural Engineers, M&E Engineers, Interior Designers and Landscape Architects etc. but is dependent on the project. When all required consultants are confirmed, we arrange Design Team Meetings to discuss and develop the Technical Design.

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Stage 5 — Manufacturing and Construction

Stage 5 is the manufacturing and construction stage of your project. Your preferred Contractor leads this stage to deliver your project on-site and your consultants provide support and guidance along the way.

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Stage 6 — Handover

Stage 6 is the Handover for your project. At this stage we can help with the creation of a Building Manual, including the preparation of As-Built Drawings. We like to have a de-brief with the Project Team at this stage to discuss Project Performance and any learnings to take forward.

Extensions we have designed

Rear, two-storey, porch and listed-building extensions in Norfolk and Suffolk.

House Extensions — Frequently Asked Questions

Will my extension need planning permission?

Sometimes not — but permitted development rights are narrower than most people expect, and they are frequently removed on newer estates, in conservation areas and on listed properties. The rules also change. We check the position for your address before designing anything that depends on it.

How close to the boundary can I build?

That depends on the height and form of what you are proposing, and on your neighbours' windows. There is also the Party Wall etc. Act to consider where you build on or near a shared boundary. We advise on both at feasibility stage.

Can you design an extension to a listed building?

Yes. Listed properties need listed building consent as well as planning permission, and the design has to justify itself against the heritage value of what is already there. Our Listed Barn Extensions project in South Norfolk is a contemporary single-storey addition to a listed building.

How long does the planning process take?

The statutory determination period is a guide rather than a promise, and it starts only once the authority validates the application. We tell you what to expect for your authority at the feasibility meeting.

Talk to us about your project

Tell us about the site and what you are hoping to do. The first consultation is free, and we will tell you honestly what we think is achievable before you commit to anything.

What's included with House Extensions

Site visit and feasibility appraisal

Measured survey of the existing house

Design options tested against your brief and budget

Planning application, or confirmation that consent is not required

Building regulations drawings and structural coordination

Tender package and contractor selection

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