Pitch roof v Flat Roof on rear extension

6 years ago

Just started planning a rear extension, knocking through dining kitchen an extending out the back into a square area. The extension area will be approx 6x3metres (the original knocked through area will be around the same again). The house is south west facing and we want to create plenty of natural light, but really stuck on the roof style ie pitch with roof lights or flat with lantern.Any thoughts on relative costs, fors and againsts and has anyone got some examples, or maybe regret their decision. Also bifold or sliding doors? Any advice is much appreciated

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Comments (3)

Sarah W
6 years ago
We were in a similar situation and decided on a pitched roof instead of a flat. The higher roof makes the room feel much bigger. We did have to compromise on making the bathroom window above the kitchen smaller though and we have ended up with a partial view of the kitchen roof (and less garden) outside a bedroom window. So those are a couple of things to consider with your architect when looking at the different ideas. I would also say get as many big roof lights into your pitch roof as possible - on both sides so you catch the sun for most of the day. You may want to look at cost of velux roof lights versus lanterns too if the overall cost is a consideration.
In terms of doors we went sliding. If you search on sliding or bifold in design dilemmas you will find lots of helpful discussions.
PRO
Orange Key Design Studios
6 years ago
Hi. Sarah's comments are spot-on, and we would also advise consulting with an architectural designer to look at the living implications of each design. We have designed many rear extensions (both pitched and flat roofed) and have attached photos of two examples; Victorian House flat-roofed kitchen extension with sliding doors, and a 1970s pitched-roof rear extension with roof light and bi-folds.

Think carefully about how you would like to utilize the space, whether you want to be able to open up the whole space to the garden, or have the option of opening some or all of the doors. Again, speaking with your designer and some sliding/bi-fold door companies will help. Our advice is, take your time, get good advice and whatever you decide, do the best job you can afford, you will not regret it. Hope you find this helpful.
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I think the above comments are all really valid regarding sloping the roof of the extension and joining the existing and new with glazing. This is a really nice way to bring some light into the middle area - adding a window here is also worthwhile if possible if you are end of terrace. The Planners may allow you to have a view out as well as light as long as it is not overlooking. Your current lantern location also doesn't align with either the dining table or island, which may look a little off balance. Also remember to consider the location of any lighting so it doesn't clash with your glazing; pendants and spotlights as these will be what give you ambience and should provide atmosphere and task lighting. We did a similar project recently, extending an existing victorian terrace to house a kitchen/diner. We actually added flat roof lights along the long wall, giving natural light and views over the kitchen workspace and dining area. Would you like a half hour interior design consultation for some friendly one-to-one advice? We have a couple of slots each week for £125+vat. The consultation includes a friendly video chat to talk through your space and discuss your project ideas and needs. I follow up the video call with digital moodboards tailored to your budget, a layout suggestion and product recommendations. I will also follow up with a phone call.
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PRO
BetterSpace: The Floor Plan Experts
6 years ago
Both pitched and flat roofs can give you plenty of natural light. With flat roof you can design the inside space with high ceiling and get a large floor to ceiling glass doors or strip windows above the doors.

You should consider how it is going to look from the back yard, and what is the style of the house you are looking to have. A pitched roof has a traditional look while a flat roof has a more modern appeal. In many cases, if the house is old and have traditional features, a modern flat extension gives it a nice contrast.

Bi-folds are a great solution as they give you a full clear opening while sliding doors always have one part blocked. (one slides on the other) But Bi-folds, when open, extend outside. You need to make sure they do not create an obstacle.

Pitch roof v Flat Roof on rear extension

Comments (3)

Sarah W

Orange Key Design Studios

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