If your conservatory is too hot in summer, freezing in winter, or simply not giving you the usable space you need, you're not alone. Many homeowners across Greater London are choosing to replace outdated conservatories with proper single storey extensions that offer real comfort, style, and year-round usability.

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At Draw Plans, we specialise in creating architectural drawings for homeowners looking to modernise their space. Our extension plans start from just £795 + VAT, making it affordable to replace your conservatory with a high-performance extension that truly adds value.

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Why Replace a Conservatory with an Extension?

A traditional conservatory, especially one built over 10–15 years ago, often suffers from poor insulation, limited integration with the main house, and short lifespans. In contrast, replacing a conservatory with a single storey extension gives you:

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• Improved thermal efficiency

• Seamless integration with your home

• A room that can be used comfortably all year round

• Greater property value and modern appeal

• More flexible design options

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Replacing a conservatory with an extension also gives you the opportunity to rethink the layout of your ground floor and make your home work better for your lifestyle.

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Best Ideas for Replacing a Conservatory with an Extension

Here are some popular and practical design ideas for changing your conservatory to an extension that adds real value.

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Open-plan kitchen and dining room

Removing the conservatory and building a single storey extension creates the perfect opportunity to open up your kitchen and dining areas. This is especially popular in terraced and semi-detached homes where space is limited.

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Year-round garden room

Keep the connection to the outdoors, but upgrade to a fully insulated structure with brick walls, modern glazing, and a tiled or flat roof. Add large sliding or bi-fold doors to retain garden views with proper climate control.

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Extended lounge or family room

If your conservatory was connected to your living room, replace it with a warm, spacious lounge area that feels like a natural continuation of your home.

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Home office or creative studio

A former conservatory can be transformed into a private, insulated workspace or hobby room — ideal for working from home, especially with improved lighting and acoustics.

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Playroom or snug

A new single storey extension in place of your conservatory can make the perfect playroom for young children or a cosy TV/snug space for relaxing evenings.

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Replacing Conservatory with Extension Cost

The cost to replace a conservatory with an extension will depend on several factors, including the size of the build, the specification, and the site conditions. However, here is a rough guide for 2025:

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• Removal of old conservatory: £2,000 – £5,000

• New single storey extension build: £2,000 – £2,800 per m² (Greater London)

• Architectural drawings by Draw Plans: from £795 + VAT

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Additional costs may include structural engineering, building control fees, and planning applications (if required). At Draw Plans, we help you manage this from start to finish, making the process simple and stress-free.

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Tip: If your existing conservatory base is not suitable for an extension, you may need to upgrade the foundation, which can add to the overall cost.

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Creating the Best Layout Plans

When changing your conservatory into an extension, the right layout is key to making the new space feel like a true part of your home. Here are some essential layout planning tips:

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Rethink how the space connects

Consider removing internal walls or redesigning adjacent rooms to make the new extension feel open and integrated with the rest of your home.

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Maximise light without sacrificing comfort

Use large windows, rooflights or roof lanterns to let natural light in, but avoid excessive glazing that can cause overheating or heat loss. A solid roof with selected glazing offers better control.

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Add insulation and heating

Unlike a conservatory, your new extension should be fully insulated with modern heating (such as underfloor heating or radiators), so it remains comfortable in all seasons.

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Blend materials and finishes

Use similar bricks, flooring and paint colours to blend the new space with the existing house. Consistency helps the extension feel like a natural continuation rather than an add-on.

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Consider zoning the space

Depending on your needs, you may want to create zones within the new space — such as a seating area, kitchen area, or workspace — especially if you’re creating an open-plan layout.

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Planning Permission and Building Regulations

In many cases, replacing a conservatory with a single storey extension can fall under permitted development rights. However, you will need to follow strict guidelines related to height, depth, and location. You must also ensure the structure complies with building regulations.

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If your home is in a conservation area, is listed, or if the extension exceeds the limits of permitted development, planning permission will be required.

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Draw Plans can help you determine whether permission is needed, prepare all the required drawings, and submit applications on your behalf.

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Why Choose Draw Plans?

Draw Plans has helped hundreds of homeowners across Greater London replace their outdated conservatories with modern, high-quality single storey extensions. We offer:

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• Fixed-price architectural plans from £795 + VAT

• Fast delivery – plans ready in 5–10 working days

• Unlimited design revisions

• Full planning and permitted development advice

• Submission to local council included

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Our team understands local planning policy, structural design, and how to maximise your space for comfort and value.

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Client Testimonials

“We replaced our leaky old conservatory with a warm, modern extension and it’s completely transformed the house. Draw Plans made the design and planning process so easy.”
– Jane & Mark, Ealing

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“Our conservatory was unusable in winter. Now we have a fully insulated extension with a new kitchen and dining space. We love it. Excellent service from Draw Plans.”
– J. Patel, Harrow

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“Draw Plans helped us replace our conservatory with a proper family room. The layout is perfect, and the space actually adds value now. Highly recommended.”
– Tom & Anya, Lewisham

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Ready to Replace Your Conservatory?

If you’re thinking of replacing your conservatory with an extension, contact Draw Plans today. We provide fast, affordable architectural plans from just £795 + VAT, with everything you need to plan your perfect extension with confidence.

Visit www.drawplans.uk or get in touch now for a free quote and expert advice on your project.