Wow thanks, that's a great idea! Our neighbours on either side have double storey extensions above the garage and the length of the house so hopefully we'll be ok with planning permission. We do use garage for storage but the path way between that and the house is very narrow. We were thinking to demolish it for the extension and build an outhouse in the garden but that's obviously very costly.

Hi Emily, extending to provide more space in the kitchen would be a good idea, it can be a more social space too. As you’re planning to extend you may find our latest blog helpful, it’s all about what mistakes to avoid when extending your home. I’ve linked it below if you’d like to take a read😊 https://www.thelivinghouse.co.uk/blog-interior-design-tips/the-6-most-common-mistakes-we-see-when-you-extend-your-home

The pillar idea works. The only stumbling block is if you are allowed to build where you are thinking. Consult your deeds and if no clearer speak to the planning department of your borough council- you need to establish if there is a limit of the building line or a limitation of how close you can build to your boundary. It is also possible that there are services under the side path that need to be considered.

Idea with 5 bedrooms, the largest with ensuite: (extension flush with kitchen below) Note: the 5th bedroom would be 2m wide at best, because of the passage to master bed. Idea with 4 bedrooms, of which one with walk in closet leading to ensuite: (extension flush with existing bedrooms)