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Hi Guys Thanks for the suggestions so far. Balcony a possibility and nice views out the back, although I wonder how much we would actually sit out there as opposed to the garden (it’s also west facing, so no sun in the morning when perhaps a coffee and newspaper might be the best time to take advantage sitting out there). That leads me to think inside space would be more useful, although agree that there should be a step / break in the brickwork externally where the landing is, to add some interest and not just have a flat wall across the back. I’ve had a go at drawing a version with two gable ends and a flat roof and lantern in the middle - not very well illustrated, but hopefully it is an improvement on the box option. Re changing the pitch of the roof, my concern is that it is already very shallow so whether this would affect performance? I don’t think we would be able to increase the height. Thanks again for all your comments and ideas, I will keep posting to let you know what happens and may employ one of you soon to do a proper design job on this :) Greg

If planning permission is not an issue, I would certainly go for bigger windows. Replacing the windows, as you intend to, gives you a great opportunity to improve. And even though you appear to have a lovely period house I feel an ultra modern approach can still be appropriate and sympathetic. Budget is always a factor though.

Hello Sarah, There is a possibility that you have combined sewage in that location. I can see a drainage pipe from the roof on the front of the house. Have a look down the street and see if there are any other houses with bathrooms or drainage on the front or contact your local Building Control who will confirm. I have no idea how important the number of bedrooms are for your needs but you could forfeit the third bedroom. Alternatively have a smaller kitchen area. as the second plan and take a small chunk out of the bedroom, probably less is needed than I have indicated. If your budget allows then remove the chimney, but it is not necessary. I would take out the walls around the stair to below as that will make the space much broader. and also give the space a funky feel to it. Add some velux windows with shafts down into the kitchen dining space. I am not sure why there is no window onto the garden, perhaps look into that on your deeds and see if it could be allowed. The kitchen may be better located towards the front of the house on the first plan so that any seated area is not adjacent to a circulation route/ corridor space. Set the roof windows in a neat pattern of 2 or 3 over that space as it will help to tie it together as one. I am not sure how often you would use the front small bedroom but it could be opened out as part of the living room now and when you eventually sell, put back as a bedroom.. Hope that helps Roger