A realistic builder's quote is fixed (not an estimate), itemised, and states clearly what is included. For a single-storey London extension in 2026, expect construction of about £2,800 to £5,000+ per m², with professional fees adding 10 to 15%, a 10 to 20% contingency, and...
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The role of exterior cladding has changed dramatically over the years and is about much more than aesthetics. Exterior cladding shapes how a home looks, but it can also positively impact energy efficiency, and because it can give a home a boost in its kerb...
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In London in 2026, replacing a conservatory with a solid extension costs roughly £2,800 to £5,500 per m² for the build, or about £60,000 to £150,000 all in for a small-to-medium rear extension. Removing the old conservatory adds £800 to £2,500. Like-for-like replacements often need...
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Designing a home extension is not just about gaining extra space. A house extension is also about maximising return on investment, improving energy performance and creating a home that will remain functional, flexible and efficient for many years to come. The architect you choose for your...
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Design a London annex with privacy, accessibility and smart planning for flexible multi-generational living under one roof that adapts over time....
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An increasing number of people are now choosing to extend their current properties rather than move house. This is definitely the quickest and cheapest solution to meeting the changing needs of the family. Building an extension can be an exciting project and the ideal way...
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Undertaking a home extension project is exciting, but before work begins, it is essential to check if planning permission is required. Most building adaptations and extensions require approval by the local planning authority. With careful research and preparations, most planning applications are successful, but refusals...
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Obtaining planning permission is a key requirement for any building project. If you are planning to extend your home, you may well need planning permission for the building work. It is essential to obtain planning permission from your local planning authority before work begins. Different authorities...
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Chimney breasts were once a significant feature in traditional homes, built with functionality in mind, they housed an open fire and chimney flue to keep residents warm in the colder months. Found in almost every room in the house before central heating systems were created, they are a significant...
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There are a number of different planning applications, each of which will suit different residential extension designs. Discussed below are 7 different treatments for common extensions or alterations to residential properties. Permitted Development Arguably the most straightforward extension type would be that which falls within your...
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Have you considered how our project might affect the condition with your neighbours? When proposing an extension it is likely you would be required to serve a Party Wall notices to adjoining neighbours. A party wall notice is a notice of proposed works in relation to a particular...
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There are a number of different planning applications, each of which will suit different residential extension designs. Discussed below are 7 different treatments for common extensions or alterations for residential properties. Permitted Development Arguably the most straightforward extension type would be that which falls within your permitted development rights. Typical...
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Planning Permission is confusing, as precedent and policy vary borough to borough. Policy is also frequently updated, so staying on-top of the latest changes can be challenging, especially if you’re not used to working with local councils day to day. On top of this, there...
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Planning Permission – everybody needs it, but no one knows much about it. We’re going to break everything down for you. If you are planning to do an extension, the chances are, you will require permission from your local council, be that through Permitted Development of...
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Living in a conservation area is a pretty special experience; the architecture in the area has been preserved and the character maintained for future generations. Of course, this has implications when it comes to home renovations, particularly to extensions and particular features. You can contact...
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Building Control is a collection of guidelines designed to maintain your safety when extending your home. During the build process, this typically involves four site visits: the first visit when the foundations are being laid, the second when the cavity wall is erected, the third...
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Lofts conversions are a fantastic way to gain some much needed space as they are usually very generous in the floor area that they add. Our Design Team have loads of design solutions but they are subject to a properties specific characteristics and local planning...
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Whether you intend to go large and invest in a lower ground floor, or keep it simple and go for a cellar conversion; there are loads of ways you can use this underground space. We thought we would share just some of the ideas and...
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Ceiling height was the hot topic of discussion at our most recent House Tour, and it’s certainly something we spend lots of time on during the Design Phase. There are loads of questions to answer on this topic, so we thought we’re run through the...
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Our Design Team have recently obtained planning permission for a fantastic, three story extension in a conservation area in Lambeth. The additional space will add a massive 60SQ to the home, and will completely transform the property....
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There are several types of application that you can submit to your local council. Our Design Team have tons of experience in submitting planning applications, and they’ll be able to best advise which is most appropriate for your scheme. Depending on the size and character of...
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Amendments that fall within a certain criteria can be made to your property under Permitted Development; this means you don’t need to apply for full planning permission. While Permitted Development (PD) can be applied to most properties, it does not apply to flats, maisonettes or...
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Party Wall Consent is a legal requirement that has been in place since 1996.This law was designed to regulate building works whilst also protecting adjoining owners and occupiers during building projects. It is a separate requirement to Planning Permission and one does not have an...
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There is a lot of confusion surrounding the mysterious and complex process that is Party Wall. Often clients are unsure or misunderstand what is expected of them with regards to notifying their neighbours of impending building work. We are frequently asked whether neighbours can actually...
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This project is a great example of a clever solution to overcome the Lambeth SPD policy on wraparound extensions....
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During the Design stage, clients are likely to benefit in regards to planning and party wall matters. Clients can benefit from a joint planning application, and many London boroughs are more willing to be slightly more flexible with the wall height astride the boundary....
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Once you decide to undertake a side return extension project, one of the factors you will need to consider is whether any of the building work is being carried out near to a sewer. If you are planning to build over or close to a...
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A common question we are asked is whether being in a conversation area will prohibit the design and build of a property. A conservation area exists to protect the special architectural and historic interest of a place. ...
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There has never been a better time to convert a loft space and build a Side Return Extension at the same time. At Build Team, we routinely get asked to undertake Loft Conversions as part of a client’s Side Return plans. Our clients are typically...
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There are a number of good reasons to collaborate with your neighbour when it comes to the Design and Build of a Side Return Extension and at Build Team we have developed a specialist knowledge base on how best to approach these projects....
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Sometimes you don’t need to add a large space to create a big impact on the layout of your home. A modest but well-designed extension can be transformative, changing the aspect of a room, bringing in valuable extra daylight, linking two existing spaces, or improving circulation...
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Following on from our recent blog post, Side Return Extensions for Flats, we have received many enquiries. Many of you want to know how to go about getting your Landlord's consent. Whilst we can't promise you will get the answer you want, here are some...
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For most clients with a flat the primary reason for building a Side Return Extension is to convert their one bed into a two bed. Whether you need more space but can't afford to move, or want to sell your flat on, it makes sense...
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Neighbours can be tricky, especially if you’re trying to make some home improvements. Whether they have had some bad experiences before or have heard horror stories from friends there are ways around this. At Build Team we try and minimise the effect building your side-return will have...
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