Side Return Extensions: Design Ideas, Costs & Planning Advice

In many London homes, particularly Victorian and Edwardian terraces, the narrow alleyway running alongside the kitchen or dining room is often underused. A side return extension transforms this wasted outdoor space into valuable indoor living area — opening up your home, improving flow, and letting in natural light.

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At Draw Plans, we are expert architectural designers serving the Greater London area. We create bespoke side return extension plans from just £795 + VAT, helping homeowners maximise the potential of their homes with clear, creative, and compliant designs.

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In this article, we’ll explore the best side return extensions ideas, what to expect when it comes to side return extension cost, and how to design a layout that works perfectly for your lifestyle.

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What is a Side Return Extension?

A side return extension fills in the often narrow, unused space along the side of a house — typically adjacent to the kitchen. This kind of extension doesn’t usually involve taking up much garden space, making it a smart choice for homeowners who want to expand without compromising outdoor areas.

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It’s especially popular in London, where space is at a premium and traditional homes often include a side alley that serves little purpose.

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Side Return Extensions Ideas to Inspire You

If you’re considering a side return project, here are some of the most popular and effective side return extensions ideas:

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1. Open-Plan Kitchen-Diners

This is the classic use of a side return extension. By widening the kitchen and removing internal walls, you can create a spacious, flowing kitchen-diner that becomes the heart of the home. Incorporate a kitchen island, dining area, and even a small lounge zone.

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2. Full-Width Glass Doors

A modern side return often includes floor-to-ceiling glazing or bifold doors at the rear, connecting the new interior space to the garden and bringing in lots of natural light.

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3. Skylights or Rooflights

Because side return extensions often have long roof areas, they’re perfect for skylights. This floods the middle of your home with daylight, making previously dark areas bright and airy.

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4. Zoned Living Spaces

Even within an open-plan area, you can create “zones” for different uses. Consider using furniture placement, partial walls, or different floor finishes to separate the cooking, dining, and relaxing areas.

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5. Feature Walls or Materials

Add character by mixing modern elements like exposed brick, Crittall-style windows, or polished concrete floors into your side return design.

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Side Return Extension Cost: What Should You Budget?

Side return extension cost can vary based on the size of your home, the level of finish you’re after, and whether you’re altering the internal layout at the same time.

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Here’s a general cost guide for Greater London:

Project ScopeEstimated Cost (Inc. VAT)

Basic Side Return Extension£50,000 – £70,000

Side Return with Kitchen Fit-Out£70,000 – £90,000

Premium Finishes & Landscaping£90,000 – £120,000+

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These estimates are for construction costs only. At Draw Plans, we provide fixed-price side return extension plans from just £795 + VAT, giving you a clear and affordable way to start your project the right way — with professional drawings ready for planning approval.

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Side Return Extension Plans: How to Design the Perfect Layout

The success of a side return extension often lies in how well the new space integrates with your existing home. Here are some expert tips for planning your layout:

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Plan for Light

Maximise roof glazing to bring light into the depth of your home. Rooflights are a hallmark of great side return extension plans, brightening the newly created spaces and adjacent rooms.

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Avoid Narrow Spaces

It can be tempting to simply extend sideways without reconfiguring the existing layout — but this can lead to awkward, narrow rooms. Instead, consider knocking through internal walls to open up the space fully.

Think About the Flow

Open up the rear of the house into a single, cohesive space that flows from kitchen to garden. Avoid chopping the area into isolated zones unless you need clearly defined rooms.

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Don’t Forget Storage

Integrate smart storage into your design — think under-bench seating, built-in cupboards, or utility zones to keep your beautiful new space functional and clutter-free.

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Work with Experienced Designers

A poorly designed side return can feel underwhelming. But the right plans can unlock dramatic improvements in light, space, and functionality. That’s where we come in.

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Why Choose Draw Plans for Your Side Return Extension?

At Draw Plans, we bring expert architectural knowledge, local insight, and creative flair to every project. Our team designs fully tailored side return extensions plans to match your lifestyle, property type, and planning constraints.

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With us, you get:

✅ Architectural drawings from £795 + VAT
✅ Expert designers with local planning experience
✅ Fast and professional service across Greater London
✅ Clear, practical designs ready for planning and builders
✅ Optional 3D visuals and submission support

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Ready to Expand Your Home?

If you’re considering a side return extension in London, let Draw Plans help you get started the smart way. With thoughtful design and expert advice, your side return can become a beautiful, functional part of your home.​​​​​​​​​​