A significant number of house owners are opting to renovate or extend their homes, rather than move. According to the TSB, two in five owners are choosing to improve their homes, rather than relocate. They are being influenced by such factors as high mortgage rates and the cost of moving. An extension avoids stamp duty, agents’ fees and advertising costs plus all the upheaval of moving.
If you like where you live and it has good schools, good public transport links and good facilities, building an extension makes perfect sense. A well-built extension can be energy-efficient and increase the value of your property. To give you an insight into how successful renovating and extending a family home can be, we take a look at one of Build Team’s most successful projects- Thorpedale Road in Finsbury Park.
About Thorpedale Road
Thorpedale Road is an attractive Victorian terraced house situated in the popular neighbourhood of Finsbury Park in central London. Like many similar properties, it has a modest living space indoors and a small rear garden. With a growing family, the houseowner needed extra space and Build Team transformed the property into large family home that is the perfect blend of modern design and traditional Victorian character and architectural elements.
Built Team constructed extensions to the side and rear of the property and by doing this, a large-open plan living space was created that seamlessly connected the front living area to the rear of the house. This greatly improved the natural flow of the ground floor space. Throughout, Build Team used eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient elements to enhance the sustainability of the new extension. Build Team also added smart technology features including heating and lighting controls adding both convenience and energy efficiency to the home. The chosen design was tailored to the specific needs and lifestyle of the family both for now and also the future. The design also included both family areas and private retreats.
The project involved completely refurbishing the ground floor and adding stunning extensions to the side and rear that maximise on natural daylight to make the living spaces bright and airy. The side extension featured four large architectural skylights that flood the area with light. Full-width Crittall folding doors were installed and these successfully link the indoor and outdoor areas and this helps bring nature indoors. The modern design was carefully integrated with the main building to preserve its traditional Victorian charm.
Rear and Side Extension
By extending both the side and rear of the house, Build Team were able to create a beautiful new open-plan kitchen with dining area that has quickly become the focus of family life. The kitchen features a kitchen island with plenty of storage options and the light and airy space has an inviting vibe and ample seating for family meals, game nights and for entertaining friends.
By removing walls and using a consistent colour palette, the old and new elements in this space have been perfectly harmonised. The new open-plan design has made the space much bigger, brighter and more versatile. The new space is modern and multi-functional to maximise space efficiency and this is just what the family needed. The design used also means that it is versatile to meet future changes and to have further adaptations.
Crittal Doors and Velux Windows
The windows and doors used for the rear and side extension were an important consideration. They can be used to enhance the style and beauty of the extension, as well as impacting its use, energy efficiency and security. The folding Crittal doors give an easy transition from the indoor to the outside space and they have enhanced the aesthetics of the extension.
The outside space was landscaped to make it easy for the family to enjoy time outdoors with friends. Al fresco dining and evening drinks have become a regular event! The family is definitely making regular use of their outdoor space, which is now so easily accessible.
Velux windows and skylights were chosen as they maximise the amount of light and fresh air being brought into the home. They have created a lighter, brighter, healthy and energy-efficient space that is ideal for work, study and relaxation.
Rear View Perspective
From the rear-view perspective, the extension features a pitched roof to the side and a flat roof to the rear. This was decided after careful consideration, so that the extension would have minimal impact on neighbouring properties.
Build Team take care of all aspects of the construction of an extension and this includes checking whether planning permission is required and that the design of the extension complies with all local zoning laws and building codes in the area of the property. Build Team works to the highest standards and it respects the community in which it works.
When work had reached this important stage, the Buld Team builders took endless careful measurements to ensure that the extension did not exceed the permitted maximum height for the area. The pitched roof of the extension was carefully calculated so that it would not cause a reduction in daylight in any neighbouring properties.
The Completion of the Project
Build Team works with high-quality materials that are both durable and aesthetically pleasing. A great deal of thought is put into the design of each extension to ensure that it complements the character and style of the main house and also surrounding properties. When building an extension, the Build Team builders ensure that there is minimum noise and disruption to the family and to other neighbours. As they work, the site is kept as clean and tidy as possible.
… And the Owners’ Thoughts?
They feel that the extension has completely transformed their home and are enjoying the abundance of space. Their kitchen had been a galley-style kitchen, making working and dining in it, challenging. The new kitchen however, is so bright and spacious, it draws all the family there – like a magnet!
What Tips Does the Family Have?
Here are some tips from the family:
- If you are planning to build an extension, good research is essential. Pinterest and Instagram are great places to find inspiration.
- Consider moving out temporarily whilst the work is being done, as this will speed up the building process- and this can save time and money in the long run.
- Be mindful of costs. Build Teams’ quotation was very accurate and there were no hidden surprises.
- Don’t forget when calculating costs that you will need to factor in interior design and furnishings.
Transformation of Thorpedale Road
By adding a rear and side extension, Thorpedale Road is now successfully meeting the demands of a growing family. The new living space is light, bright and very workable. It has become the hub for family life and this has increased the amount of time they are now spending together because they have the space to comfortably do so.
The family has also found that with such easy access to outside, they are making far more use of their outside space. No wonder so many homeowners are transforming their living space in this way – especially when they use a company that pays great attention to detail.
Care and expertise are the hallmarks of Build Team. If you would like to explore the possibilities of extending your family home, why not contact Build Team today? You can book a FREE 30-minute design consultation.
Our office is at 342 Clapham Road, London SW9 9AJ
Our email: hello@builteam.com
Our telephone : 0207 495 6561
