Planning Permission Tips UK - Two Story Side Extensions - The Common Mistakes

Probably the most common type of residential extension is the two storey side extension. However, it is one of the most easiest schemes to get wrong with regard to Planning Permission. Side extensions have an awful lot of issues that need careful consideration before submitting a scheme to the Planning Department for Planning Permission.

Firstly is the impact of your scheme upon the neighbours. Most councils design guides will not let you build right up to the boundary at the first floor level. This is to prevent 'terracing' of the street scene. This usually means 'insetting' the extension by at least 1M. The ground floor element can normally go closer. Secondly, is respecting the shape of the existing dwelling. This often means setting back the extension to obtain broken wall & roof lines together with a lower ridge line. Simply adding on a 'block' of same depth extension with flush front elevation wall & roof lines will normally be resisted.

This is to prevent large bland wall & roof areas. Having broken wall lines retains the original house shape, adds interest & is subordinate to the main dwelling. The most common reply to this design concept from home owners is 'but it will look like an extension!' Yes if it is done badly but no if the design accommodates good design detailing, respectful scale & well designed roof slopes. It really does not take much effort to achieve the right balanced look - just the right eye & lots of design experience in such matters.

Thirdly are side windows of adjoining properties. These need to be carefully assessed for right of light issues. Some side windows are not relevant - others are - you need to decide which ones are which.

Fourth is the off road car parking requirements. Additional bedrooms often means additional or compliant off road car parking provision. If your property is already deficient in this area & known to be within an on road parking problem area with perhaps access problems onto a busy classified road then you may have to consider what you will be formally presenting to the Planners in terms of potential new bedroom spaces.

Lastly is the overall width of property scenario. All properties have a dimensional ratio (width versus depth). Many properties are already long & thin with a wide street scene or presence. A two storey side extension will often just add to this visual impact which is again often resisted by the Planners. Clever design tweaks such as recessing the extension further back from the front elevation & wrapping it around the rear elevation can often create the additional space required but without making the property look ungainly wide.

The same result can be achieved by bringing the extension further forward & wrapping it around part of the front elevation. Many people seem to think front extensions are impossible because of infringing 'building lines' but the fact is front extensions are becoming far more popular & acceptable due to the improvement of the street scene. Many front extensions can turn a really bland looking property into a very interesting building with interesting roof & wall lines. Property developers do this all the time but that can fill another topic on its own.

Our 'Maximum Build Planning Guide' explains further the issues involved when extending or developing a residential property.

http://www.planning-approval.co.uk

---

Persian Carpets - Popular Styles

There are numerous styles of Persian carpets. In fact there... Read More

CCTV for the Home

Securing your property is one of the growing domestic issues... Read More

Swim Spas Make a Big Splash with Baby Boomers

If you are an aging baby boomer like I am,... Read More

Make Your Home Secure

The following list offers some inexpensive ways to make your... Read More

Pool Supplies Should Also Contain Safety

A swimming pool with attached spa has just been installed... Read More

Candle Making 101

If you'd like to try your hand at candle making,... Read More

Modern Rugs Add Color, Texture, Interest and Space Definition To Your Room

Modern Design is sleek, stark, and spacious with angular and... Read More

Selecting the Right Air Compressor for Your Air Tool

An air compressor is used to power air tools such... Read More

Got Attic Mold? Lets Talk Energy Conservation!

It happens to countless homeowners around the end of the... Read More

Air Sanders: Forget Electric, Go Air!

An air sander is a common air tool often overlooked... Read More

Your Building Your Dream Home, But Where Do You Start?

You have finally found the perfect lot, in the neighborhood... Read More

Garage Doors

You may think choosing garage doors is straight forward, however... Read More

Laminate Flooring Basics

Laminate flooring resembles the look of hardwoods but offers easier... Read More

Building Wood Stairs

Building a set of wood stairs is not nearly as... Read More

Stair Railings Styles

The stair railing at home is more than a simple... Read More

Planning Permission Tips UK - Illegal Building Works - Is there an Upside?

Many times throughout the year we are called in to... Read More

How to Install a Ceiling Fan - A Simple Guide

A Complete manual on how to install a Ceiling Fan... Read More

How About a Jungle Mural to Put Some Swing Into Your Child?s Room?

If your child loves all different types of animals, a... Read More

Remodeling Your Kitchen

Remodeling a kitchen is one of the best investments a... Read More

The Advantages of Pre-Engineered Steel Buildings

Steel is a remarkable material that has been steadily increasing... Read More

Luxurious Whirlpool Baths Aren?t Just for the Rich and Famous

A Jacuzzi has been popular since the 40's. We stopped... Read More

Lakeside Patios ? The Water Makes Decisions For You

If you are putting in a new patio on a... Read More

Laminate Flooring is Built for the Twenty First Century

The tradition of hardwood floors dates back hundreds of years,... Read More

Metal Carports: Steel Carport Guide

Buying a carport to protect your investment can be a... Read More

How to Care for Laminate Flooring

It's hard to damage and easy to care for laminate... Read More

Concrete Cutting: Shedding Light On Your Basement Remodel

Basements or cellars (depending on which part of the country... Read More

Design Elements

A well-decorated room can still lack personality. To give your... Read More

Cordless Impact Wrench - Not the Same Tool as Your Cordless Drill

The cordless impact wrench is quickly gaining in popularity among... Read More

Interior Design For New Homes

When decorating or making decorating decisions for new homes, it... Read More

The Benefits of Radiant Heat, Comparison

What are the Benefits of Radiant Heating and how do... Read More

Marketing For The Home Builder

When one is looking into marketing for the home builder,... Read More

Understanding Air Purifiers

Purchasing an air purifier can be confusing, and you do... Read More

Hot Tubs Create a Backyard Oasis

What would you like in the backyard that is great... Read More