Bungalow renovation specialist reveals six blunders to avoid during extension projects
In the realm of home renovations, bungalow extensions can be a significant undertaking. With the right planning and execution, these projects can result in functional, attractive additions to your property. However, without careful consideration, bungalow extensions can fall short of expectations, leading to costly mistakes and unsatisfactory results.
To help homeowners navigate the process, we've compiled a list of common pitfalls to avoid when undertaking a bungalow extension.
1. **Isolated Planning**: One of the most common mistakes is planning the extension in isolation, without considering the overall flow and layout of the existing home. This can lead to awkward spaces and underutilized areas. To prevent this, work with an architect or designer to integrate the extension harmoniously with the whole house layout, ensuring balanced accommodation of living, kitchen, sleeping, and other spaces.
2. **Lighting Issues**: Not maximizing natural light is a particular concern in bungalows due to their single-story nature. Poorly planned extensions may create dark interiors that feel cramped. To avoid this, design the extension to capture as much daylight as possible using large windows, skylights, or glazed doors.
3. **Budgeting Blunders**: Poor budgeting and hiring builders based solely on low quotes without proper vetting can cause cost overruns, delays, or substandard work. Research builders thoroughly, check references and reviews, and consider recommendations from your architect.
4. **Regulatory oversights**: Ignoring building regulations and permissions can lead to legal issues and costly repairs. Ensure you understand and comply with all local building codes and acquire necessary approvals before work begins.
5. **Insurance oversight**: Extensions increase property value and the risk profile, so neglecting to update your home insurance can leave you underinsured. Contact your insurer early and adjust your policy accordingly.
6. **Contractor Concerns**: Choosing the wrong contractor or poor communication with builders can result in unsatisfactory results and increased stress. Select reputable, experienced contractors and maintain clear, regular communication for smooth project delivery.
In addition to these measures, there are other factors to consider when planning a bungalow extension. For instance, privacy concerns should be addressed during the design phase, with careful consideration of window placement, window treatments, and garden privacy solutions.
Moreover, connecting the rooms of a bungalow with the garden is essential for a desirable outcome. Glazing, such as bifold or sliding doors, and large picture windows can help create an indoor-outdoor space and make the most of views.
In some cases, adding a second storey to a bungalow may require a structural engineer to assess the foundations and walls' ability to support the additional load. An experienced architect or designer can ensure the new extension complements the existing property's roofline.
Lastly, before embarking on a bungalow extension, it's essential to assess whether it's a good investment. Rooflights or roof lanterns can bring daylight deep into the floorplan, making the whole space light and bright, while an open plan layout combined with maximized natural light can be utterly transformative.
By following these guidelines, homeowners can avoid common pitfalls and achieve a functional, attractive bungalow extension. Working with an architect on design and layout can help achieve a transformative result, ensuring a successful renovation project.
[1] "Common Bungalow Extension Mistakes and How to Avoid Them." Homebuilding & Renovating, 1 Mar. 2021, www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/self-build-and-renovation-advice/bungalow-extension-mistakes-and-how-to-avoid-them-41161.
[2] "Bungalow Extension Ideas." Houzz, www.houzz.co.uk/ideabooks/105608286/list/bungalow-extension-ideas.
[3] "Bungalow Extension: Costs, Planning and Design Ideas." Which?, www.which.co.uk/home-and-garden/home-improvements/extension/bungalow-extension/bungalow-extension-costs-planning-and-design-ideas-12344092.
[4] "Bungalow Extension: What You Need to Know Before You Start." The Guardian, 28 Nov. 2018, www.theguardian.com/money/2018/nov/28/bungalow-extension-what-you-need-to-know-before-you-start.
[5] "Bungalow Extension: Planning Permission and Building Regulations." Planning Portal, www.planningportal.co.uk/info/200130/common_projects/17/bungalow_extensions/.
- To ensure a harmonious flow between the extension and the existing home, collaborate with an architect or designer to integrate the extension into the overall layout, prioritizing balanced accommodation of living, kitchen, sleeping, and other spaces.
- To make the most of daylight and create an appealing indoor-outdoor space, consider implementing glazing solutions such as bifold or sliding doors in the bungalow extension design.
