Stratham is one of South London’s most vibrant and diverse areas, offering a fantastic mix of period homes, green spaces, and excellent transport links. As house prices continue to rise, many homeowners are choosing to extend rather than move, making home extensions a smart investment.
A side extension is an ideal way to enhance your living space without scarifying your garden. Whether you want to expand your kitchen, create a bright dining area, or add a functional workspace, a side extension can significantly improve your home’s layout and value.
Why Choose a Side Extension?
If your home has an unused alleyway or space to the side, a side extension can transform it into a seamless part of your living area. Unlike rear extensions, which can eat into valuable garden space, side extensions make use of otherwise wasted areas, making them a popular choice for homes in Streatham.
Some key benefits of a side extension include:
- Maximising space – Side extensions allow you to create a more open-plan living area, perfect for modern family life.
- Adding value to your home – A well-designed extension can increase your property’s resale value.
- Enhancing natural light – With skylights, bi-fold doors, or large windows, you can bring more natural light into your home.
- Improving functionality – Whether you need a larger kitchen, a home office, or a playroom, a side extension gives you the flexibility to design your home around your needs.
Popular Side Extension Designs in Streatham
Streatham is home to a variety of property styles, from Edwardian and Victorian terraces to 1930s semis and modern townhouses. The type of side extension that works best for you will depend on your home’s structure, planning regulations, and your personal style.
Here are some of the most popular side extension ideas:
- Side return extension
A side extension is one of the most common types of side extensions, especially for Victorian or Edwardian terraced houses. These homes often have a narrow passage running alongside them, which can be incorporated into the existing kitchen or dining area to create a much more spacious, open-plan layout.
- Single-Storey Side Extension
A single-storey side extension can be a great way to add extra living space without a major structural overhaul. Whether you want a larger kitchen, a cosy lounge, or even a utility room, this type of extension blends seamlessly with your existing home.
- Double-Storey Side Extension
If you need significantly more space, a double storey side extension could be the answer. This allows you to expand not only your ground floor but also add an extra bedroom, home office, or even an en-suite bathroom upstairs.
Planning Permission and Regulations
Before starting your side extension project in Streatham, it is important to check whether you need a planning permission.
Many side extensions fall under permitted development rights, meaning you won’t need full planning approval as long as the extension meets certain criteria. However, if your home is in a conservation area or is a listed building, you may need additional approvals.
Some key planning considerations include:
- The extension must not be wider than half the width of the original house.
- The materials should be in keeping with the existing building.
- The extension should not extend beyond the front elevation of the property.
It’s always best to consult a professional architect or planning consultant to ensure your plans comply with local regulations.
Choosing the Right Builder for Your Side Extension
A well-designed side extension can completely transform your home, but the key to successful project is choosing the right builder. Experience, attention to detail, and a commitment to high quality craftsmanship make all the difference when it comes to achieving the perfect extension.
At Herko, we specialise in creating beautifully designed home extensions that seamlessly blend with your existing space.
Our expert team takes care of every stage, from planning and design to construction and finishing touches, ensuring a stress-free experience with outstanding results.
Whether you are looking to expand your kitchen, create a bright open-plan living area, or add a stylish new workspace, we work closely with you to bring your vision to life. With a strong reputation for delivering exceptional work across Streatham and beyond, we are here to help you make the most of your home.
If you are considering a side extension, get in touch with Herko today – we’d love to discuss your ideas and explore how we can turn your plans into reality.
