Double storey extensions to the side and rear continue to be popular amongst homeowners. Overall, the addition of a 2-storey extension will generally give you a cheaper build cost per m2 so if you have the budget and could use the space then the addition of a double storey extension will make perfect sense.
 

Most of the 2-storey extension plans we create for homeowners are to the side of semi-detached properties where there is usually space for a decent size extension. However, you must decide early on as to whether you retain the access to the garden. There is no right or wrong decision here, it is simply a matter of priorities for any particular family.
 

On the rear the double extension is a bit more difficult from a planning perspective as ideally, you need to stay at least 1 metre away from the boundary on both sides which means the size of the 2nd floor extension won’t be as wide as the one on the bottom.
 

Looking through double extension photos on Google we notice that there is the beginning of a trend to place a very different style of extension on the 2nd floor as to what people put on the ground floor. If you care to browse out gallery above on double storey extension you should get an inkling of what I mean.
 

Whilst creating a layout for the ground floor of a 2-storey extension is easy enough the 1st floor presents designers with a few problems when it comes to how to gain access to the 2nd floor part of the extension. If the extension is at the rear, it usually means a new corridor which reduces the size of the existing rear bedroom so in effect you are reducing an existing double bedroom by about 1 metre to create another double bedroom and this doesn’t always make sense or provide great value for money.
 

Another issue on the rear double storey extension is making sure you still give plenty of light to the new corridor and the existing rear bedroom.
 

By contrast, a double storey extension to the side is usually accessed around the top of the stairs to get to the 2 extra bedrooms which works out far easier.
 

Overall, a 2-storey side extension will work out far cheaper per m2 than a 2-storey rear extension.

These are just a few points to keep in mind when you instruct your architectural designers to create extension plans for a double storey extension.
 

If you are considering a double storey extension at some point in the future, you should give us a call at PINK LINES as we would be delighted to chat with you with regard to creating extension plans for your new extension.  

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At AVONPRESS we can create double storey extension plans for as little as £795 Plus Vet.

 

PINK LINES are Londen Based Architectural Designers and work within the residential sector throughout London and the home counties. If you have a project and would like a quote for residential architectural services, then get in touch and we will be delighted to provide you with expert impartial advice as well a free quote for the services you require.

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PINK LINES provide a full range of Architectural Services including:

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Design & Layout Plans
•   Double Storey Extension Plans

•   Loft Conversion Plans

•    Design & Layout Plans
•    Planning Applications
•    Building Regulation Drawings
•    3D Visuals / CGI Animation / 360 Models / VRT
•    Structural Engineering Calcs
•    Party Wall Agreements
•    Sap Calculations
•    Specification & Schedules