If you want to extend your home, why not choose a striking design that can transform the property? Glass extensions have become incredibly popular because they make a real statement. But, you need to plan carefully if you want the best value. As one of the most reputable providers of residential architecture London has, we want to take a look at what you should consider here.
Like every project you need to start with the right plan. Here you should look at the cost, planning permission, who to work with, designs, and things like building regulations and usability.
Budget
In terms of budget, it depends on factors like the size, materials, and type of help you need. The thing to keep in mind is glass extensions tend to be the most costly of your options, needing a bigger investment than conservatories or solid brick extensions. You need to be aware of this and ensure you have a budget in the thousands per square metre.
Planning permission
This is something many people worry about, especially with residential architecture in London. However, glass extensions are similar to traditional ones, generally giving you the same kind of permissions. As long as the design is considerate you should be okay, especially if it is not the front of the property. Just be careful in conservation areas; you don’t want to fall foul of stricter regulations.
Who to work with?
Like other projects you can rely on an architect to handle the design. However, you will likely need additional support due to the fact you are working primarily with glass. A glazing expert can be a great resource as they will be able to look at the type of glass you can use for these structures. You can also talk to structural specialists about the support structure if you are using something like a metal framework. Plus, you may need advice from a door specialist.
Designs
You have lots of options with the design. For example it could be single or double height, almost any kind of shape, and have a choice of options for the framing and roofing. Your goal should be to create a striking design that adds to the property.
You also need to make sure you get the design right so the space is usable. Think about the amount of light and heating. Plus, if you have largely glazed walls you’ll need to look at the placement of furnishings and power outlets if you require them. They will have to be in the floor as there may not be any solid walls.
Building Regulations
The same rules apply here as with other parts of a property. For example you need to look at energy efficiency, especially when it comes to heat gain and loss because of all the glazing. You also have to ensure safety, accessibility, and welfare. It may be necessary to speak to building control about insulation.
Will it work for your property?
One of the most impressive things about residential architecture in London is the diversity. There aren’t many other places in the world where you can see a combination of homes and designs from so many different eras.
If you are thinking of a glass extension, you need to make sure it will work for your property. Look at the age and character. Think about the location and what kind of impact the new addition will have. Will it add to what is already there?
Orientation is vital too. If your property is south facing you must think about how much sun the room gets. In summer it may get incredibly hot in the new space because of thermal gains. You’ll need better insulation to prevent this and maintain a comfortable temperature.
On the other hand, if the home is north facing you won’t get as much sun. As a result you don’t want to find the space is too cold to use, particularly in winter. Again insulation is important, but you may also need underfloor heating or other measures to get heat into the space.
Ask us about adding to residential architecture in London
Coffey Architects is a fantastic company to work with if you want creative designs that give you the maximum value. We can look at any kind of project, including glass extensions. In fact, we have won awards for our extension work in the past.
So, if you are looking at projects and want support from one of the leading names for residential architecture London has, contact us. We would love to assist you.