Can I extend an extension (1990s) or do I need to rip down and rebuild

3 years ago

Hi we have a small brick extension (5mx2m) off of a small kitchen that we have a utility room in and breakfast bar. We use it every day but with growing family it would be good to get a bit more space around a table - like 2m onto the side and 1m onto the front would transform it as a dining area. It would also make more of some nice river views. The question is can we add onto it (it is mostly windows and doors) on both sides which would be less expensive than bulldozing and building the whole thing again - in total 6mx4m?

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Kay Moden
3 years ago
last modified: 3 years ago
What an amazing view!

You have the opportunity to do something nice here and the current extension wont complement it. The thickness of the walls also look a bit worrying to be honest. Does it keep the area warm enough in winter? Energy efficiency is important.

Especially if you want to extend to the rear i would consider taking it down, and make a new floor plan. You'd be throwing away the windows anyway.

I'd love to have a go at the design for this. Not often you get to design something with such views. Don't hesitate to drop us a message pls!

Cheers!
Emma Catherine thanked Kay Moden
Jules Mc
3 years ago
Oh my word what a view!! Can see why you use that little breakfast bar every day. No help re: building technicalities I'm afraid, but if you end up with a flat roof extension being the best option, you could also think about opening up that first floor window to access a terrace to be able to enjoy the views even more.
Emma Catherine thanked Jules Mc
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Hi OnePlan, I love Kirsty's kitchen and I had a similar idea, I will post a piccy to let you see. I have recently downsized from a detached Victorian sandstone . I loved all the different rooms I had, huge rooms with high ceilings. This is why we are keeping the rooms kinda the same, just making them bigger in keeping with what I am used to. The only room I am adding is a utility /pantry room. This will allow me to reduce the units I have in the kitchen so I can configure it as in the picture. Having a separate formal lounge is a big bonus for me as its always ready for visitors. I also have a bit of a crafter / sewing hobby, when the time allows! So its important I can keep the mess away from the rest of the house. (Well until I can persuade my other half to build me a room in the garden!!) Any thoughts on the benefits of having the extension built all on ground level? Would it be a lot more expensive? I just thought if there was foundations being dug out anyway and the equipment was already on site, it would make sense?
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Its hard to give a full breakdown of options without studying the full plans, your requirements and budgets. This is something you need to do with your chosen Architect. However, there are many options for adding windows and ways of making light bounce around the house, but if your architect has said you can't add more glazing you should ask why. I would suggest it is because it will start to impact the thermal efficiency of your house. North facing windows get no solar gain so by adding too much you could end up with a house that is difficult to keep warm especially if your house is older. You could upgarde to super energy effiecient glazing but of course that will come at a cost. Having looked at your existing plans it looks like your house has already had extensive work done. Unfortunately it doesn't appear like an architect was involved. A lot of the cost of your renovation will be in correcting previous mistakes and even then you will end up with columns in ever room unless you are willing to pay to have that corrected too. The cost could make the option of moving more viable? Did the previous owners also extend upstairs?
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rinked
3 years ago
Take it down, sell the windows and door if they are in somewhat good shape. Rebuild. As the foundation would need to be enlarged too. Great oppurtunity to insulate the foundation and walls and install a large glass partition for these amazing views!
Emma Catherine thanked rinked
Emma Catherine
Original Author
3 years ago
Thanks for all the feedback! Yes a balcony would be great but current roof not stable enough. We have been speaking to a company who make orangeries to add to the space - the breakfast bar would then become a walkway to a bigger seating area.

Can I extend an extension (1990s) or do I need to rip down and rebuild

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Kay Moden

Jules Mc

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Can I extend an extension (1990s) or do I need to rip down and rebuild

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Kay Moden

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