Home extensions are a popular way to add space and value to a property in the UK. There are several types of home extensions, each suited to different needs, budgets, and property types. Here are the main types:

1. Single-Storey Extension

Description: A single-storey extension adds extra space to the ground floor of a property. It is commonly used to expand kitchens, create open-plan living areas, or add a dining room.
Typical Uses: Kitchen extensions, living room expansions, or adding a sunroom.
Advantages: Relatively affordable, less disruptive than multi-storey extensions, and ideal for improving ground-floor living space.

2. Double-Storey Extension

Description: A double-storey extension adds space to both the ground and first floors of a property. This type of extension is often used to add multiple rooms, such as a larger kitchen downstairs and an extra bedroom or bathroom upstairs.
Typical Uses: Adding a larger kitchen and living area downstairs, with additional bedrooms or bathrooms upstairs.
Advantages: Maximises space on both floors, increases property value significantly, and provides more living and sleeping areas.

3. Wrap-Around Extension

Description: A wrap-around extension combines a rear and side extension, effectively “wrapping around” the property. This type of extension is ideal for larger homes that need significant additional space.
Typical Uses: Expanding kitchens, creating open-plan living spaces, or adding multiple rooms.
Advantages: Provides substantial additional space, ideal for larger properties, and can transform the layout of a home.

4. Side Return Extension

Description: A side return extension involves extending into the alleyway (side return) typically found in terraced or semi-detached houses. This type of extension is popular in Victorian or Edwardian homes.
Typical Uses: Expanding narrow kitchens or creating open-plan living areas.
Advantages: Makes use of underutilised space, ideal for terraced houses, and can bring more light into the home.

5. Rear Extension

Description: A rear extension extends the back of the house, usually into the garden. This is one of the most common types of extensions in the UK.
Typical Uses: Expanding kitchens, creating open-plan living spaces, or adding a dining area.
Advantages: Adds significant space, can be designed to blend with the existing property, and often improves access to the garden.

6. Loft Conversion

Description: A loft conversion involves transforming an unused attic space into a functional room, such as a bedroom, office, or bathroom.
Typical Uses: Adding an extra bedroom, home office, or en-suite bathroom.
Advantages: Utilises existing space, adds value to the property, and avoids the need for external construction.

7. Basement Extension

Description: A basement extension involves excavating beneath the property to create additional living space. This can be a single-storey basement or a more complex multi-storey basement.
Typical Uses: Adding a cinema room, gym, extra bedroom, or storage space.
Advantages: Adds significant space without altering the external footprint, ideal for properties with limited outdoor space.

8. Orangery or Conservatory

Description: An orangery or conservatory is a glass or partially glazed extension that can be used as a sunroom, dining area, or additional living space.
Typical Uses: Creating a light-filled space for relaxation, dining, or growing plants.
Advantages: Brings in natural light, enhances connection to the garden, and can be less expensive than a traditional extension.

9. Garage Conversion

Description: A garage conversion involves transforming an existing garage into a habitable room, such as a bedroom, office, or gym.
Typical Uses: Adding an extra bedroom, home office, or playroom.
Advantages: Utilises existing space, cost-effective, and avoids the need for external construction.

10. Pitched Roof Extension

Description: A pitched roof extension involves adding a sloping roof to an existing flat-roofed extension or new build. This type of extension is often used to match the existing roofline of the property.
Typical Uses: Expanding living spaces, kitchens, or bedrooms.
Advantages: Blends seamlessly with the existing property, improves aesthetics, and can provide additional loft space.

11. Flat Roof Extension

Description: A flat roof extension involves adding a flat-roofed structure to the property. This type of extension is often used for modern designs or where a pitched roof is not suitable.
Typical Uses: Expanding kitchens, creating open-plan living areas, or adding a home office.
Advantages: Modern aesthetic, cost-effective, and can be designed to maximise internal space.

12. Infinity Extension

Description: An infinity extension is a modern design that creates a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, often with large glass doors or walls.
Typical Uses: Expanding living areas, kitchens, or dining rooms.
Advantages: Creates a stunning visual effect, enhances connection to the garden, and brings in natural light.

13. Modular or Prefabricated Extension

Description: A modular extension involves constructing parts of the extension off-site and then assembling them on-site. This type of extension is becoming increasingly popular due to its speed and efficiency.
Typical Uses: Adding extra living space, kitchens, or bedrooms.
Advantages: Faster construction, reduced disruption, and often more cost-effective.

14. Over-Structure Extension

Description: An over-structure extension involves building over an existing part of the property, such as a garage or single-storey section, to add an extra floor.
Typical Uses: Adding an extra bedroom, bathroom, or home office.
Advantages: Maximises space without extending the footprint, ideal for properties with limited outdoor space.

15. Porch Extension

Description: A porch extension involves adding a small, enclosed structure at the entrance of the home. This can be a simple design or a more elaborate structure.
Typical Uses: Creating a welcoming entrance, adding storage space, or improving energy efficiency.
Advantages: Enhances curb appeal, provides additional storage, and can improve insulation.

Key Considerations: