A Complete Guide to Planning Home Extensions in London - By TNK Construction LTD
- Tim Gjana
- Apr 13
- 5 min read
Updated: Apr 16
London. A city where space is at a premium and the property market is always evolving. Extending your home can be one of the smartest investments you make. Whether you're in Islington, Richmond, Stratford, or Surbiton, a well-planned extension not only enhances your lifestyle but also increases your property’s value.
At TNK Construction Ltd, we specialise in high-quality home extensions across North, East, and West London, working with homeowners to unlock their home’s potential. From kitchen extensions to loft conversions and wrap-around extensions, this complete guide will help you navigate the planning process and understand your options, ensuring a smooth and successful home transformation.
Why Extend Your London Home?
With property prices and moving costs on the rise, more Londoners are choosing to improve rather than move. Home extensions allow you to:
Maximise space without relocating
Tailor your home to your lifestyle
Enhance property value, especially in high-demand areas like Kensington, Hackney, or Wimbledon
Future-proof your home as your family or needs grow
Types of Home Extensions
1. Single-Storey Extensions
Perfect for expanding kitchen and dining areas, single-storey extensions are a popular choice across London suburbs like Barnet, Clapham, and Lewisham. They are especially suited to Victorian and Edwardian homes, providing seamless access to the garden and improving natural light.
2. Double-Storey Extensions
Looking to add bedrooms or bathrooms? Double-storey extensions offer the best return on investment. These are ideal for growing families in areas such as Enfield, Greenwich, or Highgate, allowing for significant internal reconfiguration.
3. Rear Extensions
A classic option for semi-detached and terraced properties, rear extensions are commonly used to expand kitchens or living rooms. In places like Ilford, Hackney, and Kingston, rear extensions are often designed to bring the outdoors in with bi-fold or sliding glass doors.
4. Side Return Extensions
Often overlooked, side return extensions make excellent use of unused alleyways alongside Victorian terraces in areas like Fulham, Chelsea, or South Kensington. These narrow, stylish additions can dramatically improve your home’s layout and brightness.
5. Wrap-Around Extensions
Combining a rear and side return extension, wrap-arounds offer maximum flexibility. Ideal for larger plots in Wimbledon, Twickenham, or Muswell Hill, they allow for open-plan designs that suit modern living.
6. Loft Conversions
When outdoor space is limited, go upwards. Loft conversions are excellent for additional bedrooms, home offices or ensuite bathrooms, particularly in homes across Finchley, Walthamstow, and Battersea.
How to Plan a Successful Home Extension
1. Define Your Objectives
Before speaking to a builder, be clear on what you want to achieve:
More space for family life?
An income-generating annexe?
A future-proofed layout for ageing in place?
Consider how your family lives now—and how you want to live in the future.
2. Understand Planning Permission
While some extensions fall under Permitted Development Rights, others—particularly in conservation areas like Westminster or Kensington—require planning permission. At TNK Construction Ltd, we manage the entire application process, ensuring full compliance with your local council.
3. Know Your Property Type
From period properties in Hampstead to modern homes in Greenwich, understanding your home’s structure is crucial. Each house type has different load-bearing capabilities and planning restrictions. Our experienced team will assess your property and propose appropriate, cost-effective solutions.
4. Consider Your Neighbours
Extensions can impact neighbouring properties, particularly in densely populated boroughs like Islington or Southwark. TNK Construction ensures all designs adhere to the Party Wall Act and minimises disruption during the build.
Interested in learning more? Explore our Blogs page for tips, insights, and project inspiration.
Budgeting & Cost Considerations
Key Cost Factors:
Size and scope of extension
Design complexity
Structural changes
Materials and finishes
Planning and architectural fees
As a rough guide, London home extensions typically range between £1,800 – £3,500 per square metre. TNK Construction Ltd provides transparent, itemised quotes with clear timeframes and no hidden charges.
Tip from TNK Construction:
Always allow a contingency budget of 10–15% to cover unexpected costs.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Planning a home extension can be exciting, but it’s easy to fall into common traps. Avoid the following:
Skipping professional help: A design-and-build firm like TNK offers complete oversight from concept to completion.
Poor communication: Choose contractors with strong project management and clear timelines.
Unrealistic budgets: Always request a detailed quote and be wary of unusually low estimates.
Neglecting natural light: Skylights and glass panels can dramatically enhance any extension.
Forgetting storage: More living space often means more "stuff"—integrate smart storage solutions early in the design.
Working With TNK Construction Ltd
Your Trusted London Extension Specialists
Founded by Tim Gjana, a builder with over 20 years of experience, TNK Construction Ltd is a name synonymous with quality craftsmanship and trusted service. With more than 150 projects completed across Central, North, East, and West London, we understand the architectural nuances of London’s diverse housing stock.
Turnkey Service Includes:
Initial consultation & property assessment
Architectural & structural design
Planning permission & building regulations
Full construction, carpentry & fit-out
Ongoing support and post-build care
Whether it’s a kitchen extension in Stratford, a loft conversion in Surbiton, or a wrap-around extension in Hackney, our CITB-accredited team ensures your vision is brought to life—on time and on budget.
How We Help Homeowners Across London
Our clients include young families in Finchley, investors in Croydon, and senior professionals in Richmond. We understand that extending your home is a major decision, and we’re here to guide you at every step.
Areas we serve include:
North-East London: Barnet, Hackney, Ilford, Walthamstow
West London: Chelsea, Richmond, Twickenham, South Kensington
South London: Clapham, Lewisham, Greenwich, Surbiton, Croydon
Ready to Plan Your Home Extension?
Let us help you create the home you’ve always wanted. Whether you need more room for a growing family, a luxurious master suite, or a stylish open-plan kitchen, TNK Construction Ltd is your trusted partner in London.
About TNK Construction Ltd
TNK Construction Ltd is a full-service design-and-build company based in London. We specialise in residential extensions, loft conversions, refurbishments, and new builds. Founded 17 years ago by Tim Gjana, we pride ourselves on our core values of trust, outstanding craftsmanship, and client satisfaction.
Our reputation for excellence is matched by our deep knowledge of London architecture—from Victorian homes in Islington to modern townhouses in Canary Wharf. We’re committed to delivering lasting value and beautiful results, every time.
Key Takeaways
Home extensions offer valuable living space and investment returns.
Know your property type, budget, and planning requirements.
Avoid common mistakes by working with experienced professionals.
TNK Construction Ltd offers a full turnkey solution for home extensions in London.
If you're looking for a trusted construction company in London, TNK Construction Ltd is ready to bring your vision to life. Contact us today for expert advice and a free consultation.
Comments