We have recently completed a similar project. I am extremely happy with the result, but my advice would be to think about what is your aim. Are you looking to add value to your house to improve the resell value or improve what you have with your budget? Our layout was very similar to yours and we kept a narrow access down the side for bins, bikes etc (90 cm). We were not permitted to build a double height side extension so we only looked at options for single height. The end result is amazing, but involved extensive steel work and complicated construction. It is far more costly than simply knocking down an internal wall to make an open plan living space. If you get as far as employing an architect, I would stress the importance of discussing budget constraints.

It’s a fantastic size and a lot of functions are taking place on the plan. We would start by looking at all those functions and question each of them to find out how each individual part needs to work and how it can improve your experience within the house. And importantly what is missing? Example questions, Utility. Would it benefit from direct access to outside for taking washing out to dry? Back door. Do you require a dirty entrance for muddy boots, or a dog for example. Cloaks. Would a cloak room in the entrance hall be a benefit to you? WC. It’s open to the dining area. Would more privacy maybe better? Study. It has a great view of the garden but, is separated from the living area by the Utility. Is it privacy you need or would you prefer to have to door open to engage with people in the living space? Kitchen. Would you like this to be more open to the day room or do you prefer individual rooms? Kitchen. Do you spend a lot of time in the Kitchen, would you like to have more views of the garden from there? The list goes on...... We find that 3D modelling also really helps explore the space and provides a much more informative view of what the finished house will look like. It allows you to see the light coming in, views out, what the space and volume feels like, and how spaces connect with each other. We would be very happy to discuss this in more detail with you. Just let me know. Chris

hi I think either way can work well as long as it well thought out and flows correctly. in terms of who to hire, I think that depends on what involvement you want in you overall design. if you hire a good architect you will end up with a well planned home and probably a better overall design than an interior designer will provide. either way you will need to manage them to ensure that the design doesn't exceed the budget you have for the scheme. make sure you get something that you want and be open to alternative options. 100k is not a huge sum to spend on this work and if designed well it can add more in terms of value back to your home plus you get the benefit of a nice home to live in and enjoy . one last point, make sure you select a builder that is reliable. the construction period is the time when you will be und we r the most of stress and if you have a good builder you will have a pain free experience. choosing badly can result in lots if issues. if your money can stretch employ a Project Manager to safeguard your money and ensure you are not overcharged for things. best Rowland

Hi Matthew! I would ask what your ultimate aim is with the extension. How do you anticipate it improving your use of the space you have and your ability to enjoy it? There seem to be some issues like limited natural light to the office, possibly a lack of utility space, and perhaps limited dining space - are these things you are struggling with and need solutions to? In order to produce creative designs it's really helpful to get clear first on what you aim to create. You can get my free Design Your Home Vision Checklist to help you with this here: https://www.i-architect.co.uk/dyhvchecklist.html Best wishes with your home designs! Jane, i-architect.co.uk