If you're looking to add space, functionality, and value to your property, a home extension is one of the smartest investments you can make. At Draw Plans, we specialise in architectural design and creating detailed home extension plans in Greater London from just £795 + VAT. In this article, we’ll share expert advice on how to plan your extension, explore the most effective home extension ideas, break down home extension costs, and help you maximise your home’s potential.

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Why Choose a Home Extension?

A home extension allows you to:

• Stay in the area you love

• Avoid the stress and cost of moving

• Customise your living space

• Add significant value to your home

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Whether you're looking to extend your kitchen, create an open-plan living area, or add an extra bedroom, smart planning and good design are key to a successful project.

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Top Home Extension Ideas

When it comes to extending your home, creativity and functionality must go hand in hand. Here are some of the best home extension ideas to consider:

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1. Rear Extensions

Perfect for creating a spacious kitchen-diner or open-plan family room. A rear extension opens up your ground floor and enhances indoor-outdoor living with bi-fold or sliding doors.

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2. Side Return Extensions

A popular choice for terraced or semi-detached homes in London, side return extensions make use of the alleyway at the side of the property, often transforming a dark, narrow kitchen into a bright and spacious living area.

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3. Wraparound Extensions

Combining a rear and side return extension, this option gives you maximum space and flexibility. It’s ideal for open-plan layouts and can include a utility room, breakfast bar, or walk-in pantry.

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4. Double Storey Extensions

If you need extra space both upstairs and down, a double-storey extension is a cost-effective way to add multiple rooms—like a larger kitchen below and an extra bedroom or bathroom above.

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5. Orangery or Sunroom Extensions

Bring more light into your home while maintaining a sense of separation from your main living areas. Orangeries can serve as dining rooms, studios, or simply a place to relax and enjoy the view of your garden.

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Home Extension Cost Guide (2025)

Understanding the home extension cost is vital to planning your project. Here’s a general guide to typical costs in the Greater London area:

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Extension TypeAverage Cost (2025)

Single-storey extension£1,800 – £2,500 per m²

Double-storey extension£2,500 – £3,200 per m²

Side return extension£1,800 – £2,200 per m²

Wraparound extension£2,000 – £2,800 per m²

Orangery/sunroom£15,000 – £35,000+

Planning drawings (Draw Plans)From £795 + VAT

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Note: These are indicative costs and can vary depending on materials, finishes, and site conditions. At Draw Plans, we help you understand and control your build costs from the start.

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How to Create the Best Home Extension Plans

Effective home extension plans are about more than just adding space. They ensure the layout flows, the lighting works, and that you meet all planning regulations. Here are some tips to get it right:

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1. Plan Around Lifestyle

Think about how you use your home. Do you need open space for entertaining? A quiet office area? More storage? Let your lifestyle guide the layout.

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2. Maximise Natural Light

Use rooflights, glazed doors, or clerestory windows to flood the extension with natural light. Light makes spaces feel larger, more welcoming, and energy-efficient.

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3. Think About Flow

A great layout ensures smooth movement through your home. Position kitchens near dining areas, place bathrooms close to bedrooms, and ensure entrances are clutter-free.

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4. Get Expert Drawings

Professionally drawn home extension plans are essential for planning permission and construction. Our team at Draw Plans uses smart design techniques to optimise space, meet building regulations, and get your project approved quickly.

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5. Leave Room for Storage

Don’t overlook storage—it’s one of the most under-planned elements in home extensions. Built-in cupboards, under-stair drawers, and utility rooms are invaluable additions.

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Planning Permission & Building Regulations

Not all home extensions require planning permission—some fall under Permitted Development Rights. However, it’s vital to confirm before starting. We can advise you on:

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• Permitted development limits

• Planning application requirements

• Building regulations compliance

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Draw Plans handles the entire process—from initial site visit to detailed architectural drawings and submissions.

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Why Choose Draw Plans?

✔️ Affordable, fixed-price planning drawings from £795 + VAT
✔️ Quick turnaround times
✔️ Experienced in London’s unique planning rules
✔️ Friendly, knowledgeable team of architectural designers
✔️ 100% planning approval success rate (or we revise free)

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Ready to Extend Your Home?

If you're inspired by these home extension ideas and ready to take the next step, Draw Plans is here to help. We offer high-quality, affordable home extension plans across Greater London, helping you bring your vision to life while staying within budget.

📞 Call us today or visit www.drawplans.uk to book a free consultation.