Transforming London Homes: Your Guide to Side and Rear Extensions in North and South London
- Tim Gjana
- Apr 14
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 16
Homeowners across London are increasingly turning to side and rear extensions as a smart, stylish, and space-optimising solution to meet their growing needs. From families in Islington and Muswell Hill seeking more room for a bustling household, to professionals in Clapham or Wimbledon designing open-plan living spaces perfect for entertaining—home extensions are more popular than ever.
In this comprehensive guide, we explore everything you need to know about side and rear extensions, including planning, design, common mistakes, costs, and the different types of extensions that can completely transform your home. Whether you live in a Victorian terrace in Highgate, a period home in Richmond, or a modern flat in Canary Wharf, TNK Construction Ltd is your trusted partner in realising the full potential of your property.
Why Choose a Side or Rear Extension?
Rear extensions are perfect for homes with long gardens, creating opportunities to expand kitchen and living areas into bright, open spaces. Side return extensions, meanwhile, make use of underutilised alleys or side access paths, typically found in period properties in areas like Fulham, Hackney, or South Kensington.
These extensions offer a host of benefits:
Maximise internal space without moving home
Enhance property value by up to 20-25%
Improve functionality of kitchens, dining areas, and living rooms
Bring in natural light with skylights, bifold doors, or glass roofing
Complement modern and traditional architecture
When combined into a wrap-around extension, you get the best of both worlds, creating a large, multifunctional area that can adapt to evolving family lifestyles.
Understanding Your Extension Options
Whether you're dreaming of an expansive kitchen diner in Barnet, or a second lounge in Kensington, knowing your options is the first step. Here are some common types of residential extensions:
1. Single-Storey Rear Extension
Ideal for adding an open-plan kitchen or family room. A popular choice for properties in Stratford, Lewisham, and Twickenham.
2. Double-Storey Extension
Perfect if you need extra bedrooms or bathrooms. It’s a more substantial investment but ideal for families in Enfield or Ilford needing long-term solutions.
3. Side Return Extension
Especially suited for narrow plots, often found in Victorian homes in Chelsea or terraced houses in Southwark. Transforms unused space into practical square footage.
4. Wrap-Around Extension
Combining side and rear extensions, this option delivers maximum space and stunning architectural results.
5. Kitchen and Living Space Extensions
Add style, luxury, and function to your everyday life. Great for creating open-plan layouts with island kitchens, dining zones, or utility areas.
6. Loft Conversions
While not a ground-floor extension, converting your loft is a fantastic way to add an extra bedroom, office, or ensuite bathroom—particularly popular in Finchley, Croydon, and Walthamstow.
Planning Permission & Regulations
Before breaking ground, it’s essential to understand whether you need planning permission. Many extensions fall under Permitted Development Rights, especially single-storey rear extensions within specified dimensions. However, for larger builds, double-storey projects, or homes in conservation areas like Greenwich or Hampstead, formal planning permission is required.
Our team at TNK Construction Ltd will handle all aspects of the planning process:
Liaising with your local authority
Preparing architectural drawings
Navigating building regulations
Advising on party wall agreements (if required)
Designing a Space That Works for You
Designing your extension should reflect both your practical needs and design preferences. From modern, minimalist aesthetics in Canary Wharf to classic finishes in Surbiton, our in-house designers and architectural partners will work with you to achieve a seamless finish.
Key considerations include:
Lighting: Incorporating large windows, skylights, and bifold doors
Flow: Creating natural movement between zones
Storage: Built-in options for minimalist living
Materials: Matching or complementing existing brickwork and finishes
Structural integrity: Ensuring your extension is safe and durable
Transforming Richmond – Explore our recent 6 Flats project in West London, completed in 18 months from start to finish. See the full project!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
As experienced extension builders in London, we’ve seen firsthand the common pitfalls that homeowners fall into:
Ignoring planning rules
Underestimating budget or contingency
Poor communication with builders or contractors
Failing to consider long-term needs (e.g., future resale or growing family)
Choosing inexperienced builders
TNK Construction Ltd brings over 17 years of experience and a stellar reputation built on over 150 successful projects across Chelsea, Islington, Wimbledon, and beyond.
Budgeting & Cost Considerations
Cost is a crucial factor. While prices vary by size, finish, and location, here's a rough guide:
Side return extension: From £35,000 - £60,000+
Rear single-storey extension: From £40,000 - £80,000
Double-storey extension: From £75,000 - £120,000
Wrap-around extension: From £90,000 - £150,000+
Loft conversions: From £40,000 - £85,000
At TNK Construction, we offer transparent pricing, detailed quotations, and expert guidance on how to manage a building budget without compromising quality.
Get started today with a free quote.
Why Choose TNK Construction Ltd?
Founded by Tim Gjana and operating across North, East, West, and South London, TNK Construction Ltd is a name synonymous with quality, trust, and craftsmanship.
Our team of CITB-accredited tradespeople, designers, and project managers have delivered bespoke residential extensions for homes ranging from Highgate to Clapham, and from Ilford to Twickenham.
What sets us apart:
17+ years of construction excellence
Full project management from design to completion
High-quality finishes tailored to your home’s style
Timely delivery and transparent communication
Specialists in period properties and modern builds alike
Get Started with TNK Construction Today
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
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