Rear extensions are one of the most popular and cost-effective ways to transform your home—adding space, light, and value without the hassle of moving. At Draw Plans, we specialise in architectural design services and offer professional rear extension plans across Greater London, starting from just £795 + VAT.

​

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore rear extension ideas, average costs, layout planning tips, and everything you need to know to start your project.

​

Why Choose a Rear Extension?

Rear extensions are ideal for opening up your ground floor to create a more functional and spacious living area. Whether you want an open-plan kitchen diner, a new lounge, or a garden room, rear extensions allow you to expand without encroaching on driveways or side access.

​

Key Benefits:

• Increases ground floor living space

• Connects the home to the garden

• Adds property value

• Customisable to suit modern or traditional homes

• Often suitable under permitted development

​

Rear Extension Ideas

Here are some great ideas to inspire your rear extension design:

• Open-Plan Kitchen Diner: Combine cooking, dining, and family space in one seamless layout.

• Lounge with Garden Views: A bright living space with bi-fold doors opening to the garden.

• Utility Room Add-On: Free up space in your kitchen by adding a separate utility zone.

• Home Office or Studio: A quiet retreat at the back of the house.

• Garden Room Extension: A glazed rear extension to enjoy the outdoors all year round.

Design Tip: Maximise natural light by incorporating rooflights, large windows, or fully glazed doors.

​

Rear Extension Costs in Greater London

Costs can vary depending on size, build method, and finishes. Below is a general guide:

• Design & Planning Drawings: From £795 + VAT (with Draw Plans)

• Construction Costs: Typically £1,800 – £2,800 per square metre

• Planning Application Fee: £202 (if required)

• Building Regulation Drawings: £500 – £1,200

For a 25m2 rear extension, total build costs might range between £45,000 and £70,000 excluding VAT and professional fees.

Draw Plans offers expert guidance on budgeting and can provide detailed drawings to get accurate quotes from builders.

​

Planning Permission & Building Regulations

​

Planning Permission

Many rear extensions fall under permitted development rights, meaning you might not need formal planning approval. However, this depends on size, height, and local council guidelines.

We’ll help assess your property and handle planning applications when necessary.

​

Building Regulations

All rear extensions must comply with UK Building Regulations to ensure they are safe, insulated, and structurally sound. We provide drawings ready for submission to Building Control.

​

Rear Extension Layout Tips

• Flow & Functionality: Think about how you move between kitchen, dining, and garden.

• Zoning: Use furniture placement or slight floor level changes to define areas.

• Storage: Build in storage solutions to keep the new space tidy and practical.

• Natural Light: Add roof lanterns or skylights to illuminate central areas.

• Outdoor Connection: Consider full-width doors or a deck to enhance garden access.

Pro Tip: Use continuous flooring from the inside to outside to visually extend your space.

​

Why Choose Draw Plans?

At Draw Plans, we specialise in creating professional, planning-ready rear extension drawings tailored to your needs:

• Plans from just £795 + VAT

• Local expertise across all Greater London boroughs

• Fast turnaround and planning advice

• Building Regulations drawings available

• Friendly and experienced design team

We simplify the process so you can move forward with confidence.

​

What Our Clients Say

"Draw Plans helped us design a beautiful rear extension that completely opened up our home. The plans were spot on and approved quickly!"

– Lisa & Mark, Wandsworth

​

"Fantastic service. We now have an open-plan kitchen and dining space we love. The team were helpful, professional, and affordable."

– Mr. & Mrs. Patel, Barnet

​

"From the initial consultation to the final drawings, Draw Plans made the process so simple. Our builder was impressed with the quality of the plans!"

– Hannah, Greenwich

​

Ready to Get Started?

If you're thinking about a rear extension, Draw Plans can help you make it a reality. Whether you're in the early idea stage or ready to build, our expert design team is here to guide you.