If you’re looking to expand your living space without sacrificing your garden, a side extension is one of the smartest ways to add room, value, and functionality to your home. Whether you live in a semi-detached, detached, or end-of-terrace property, side extensions can unlock hidden potential and bring your home up to date with modern living standards.

At Draw Plans, we specialise in designing creative, compliant, and cost-effective side extension plans for homeowners across Greater London. With architectural drawings starting from £795 + VAT, we help you turn ideas into reality with minimal stress and maximum value.

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In this guide, we’ll cover the best side extensions ideas, typical side extension cost, and how to plan your layout to create a space that truly works for your lifestyle.

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What is a Side Extension?

A side extension expands your home outwards into the space beside it — usually into a driveway, unused land, or side alley. It’s an ideal option for homes with sufficient side space, particularly:

• End-of-terrace homes, which often have wide side plots that can be used more effectively.

• Semi-detached houses, which usually have some space between properties.

• Detached properties, which offer the most flexibility due to space on both sides.

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Unlike rear extensions, side extensions don’t typically eat into your garden space, making them a great option for families who want to retain outdoor areas.

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Side Extensions Ideas: Making the Most of Your Home

A well-designed side extension can dramatically improve the layout and flow of your home. Here are some of the most effective and popular side extensions ideas:

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1. Extend Your Kitchen or Dining Room

Many families use side extensions to create large kitchen-diners with an island, dining area, and family space. This open-plan approach makes everyday living and entertaining easier and more enjoyable.

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2. Create a Utility Room or Boot Room

A side extension is the perfect place to tuck away laundry appliances, coats, shoes, and other household clutter. Adding a separate utility room keeps your main living space neat and functional.

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3. Add a Home Office or Study

With remote working now a long-term reality for many, a small side extension can provide the perfect quiet space for productivity without needing to use up a bedroom.

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4. Widen Existing Rooms

Even a narrow side extension can make a big impact. Widening a lounge, kitchen, or hallway can improve usability and make rooms feel dramatically more open and modern.

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5. Double-Storey Side Extensions

If planning permission allows, a double-storey side extension can provide both additional ground floor space and extra upstairs bedrooms or bathrooms — increasing your home's value significantly.

Side Extension Cost: What to Budget

The side extension cost in Greater London will vary depending on the size, complexity, and finish of your project. Here's a general guide to help you budget realistically:

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Type of Side ExtensionEstimated Cost (Inc. VAT)

Single-storey side extension£60,000 – £90,000

Double-storey side extension£90,000 – £140,000+

Premium finishes & fit-outsAdd £10,000 – £30,000

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These estimates exclude design and planning fees. At Draw Plans, our side extension plans start from just £795 + VAT, giving you the professional foundation you need to move forward with confidence.

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We also provide optional planning submission support and 3D visuals to help you better visualise your new space.

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Side Extension Plans: Layout Tips and Design Advice

A successful side extension isn’t just about adding square footage — it’s about creating better, more livable spaces. Here’s how to ensure your side extension plans deliver the results you want:

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Integrate the Extension Seamlessly

Good design blends the new with the old. Your extension should flow naturally from the existing layout, using similar floor levels, materials, and finishes where appropriate.

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Maximise Light

Adding rooflights, glazed doors, or floor-to-ceiling windows in your side extension will ensure that the new area feels bright and airy — not like a dark corridor or add-on.

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Rework the Ground Floor Layout

Sometimes, reconfiguring your existing layout alongside the extension delivers the best results. For example, relocating a kitchen, bathroom, or staircase could improve circulation and zoning.

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Consider Structural Elements Early

If you plan to remove internal walls or create large open-plan spaces, be sure your plans include the structural engineering needed to support the changes.

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Think Long-Term

Your side extension should grow with your needs. Whether you’re planning for a growing family, aging in place, or just want better daily functionality, your layout should be future-proof.

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Why Choose Draw Plans for Your Side Extension?

At Draw Plans, we make the process of designing your side extension straightforward and stress-free. Whether you're adding a small side room or creating a multi-storey extension, we deliver high-quality, fixed-price drawings tailored to your home and your needs.

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Here’s what we offer:

✅ Architectural plans from £795 + VAT
✅ Fast, friendly, and professional service
✅ Extensive experience with Greater London planning authorities
✅ Clear, practical layout designs
✅ Optional 3D visuals and planning submission support

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We work with homeowners in London every day to create spaces that are beautiful, functional, and designed to meet local planning rules and building regulations.

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Ready to Start Your Side Extension?

A side extension could be the perfect way to improve your home without moving. Whether you're adding space for cooking, working, or relaxing, Draw Plans is here to help.​​​​​​​

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