Have you been weighing up the options of moving home or building an extension?
We all have those moments when we need more space, we imagine how good it would be to have a playroom or games room downstairs for the kids or maybe you want somewhere spacious where you can cook, dine and entertain guests?
Whilst all of these things may be possible in a new house, finding one that matches your exact requirements isn’t always a simple matter – not to mention the increasing cost of moving home in a volatile housing market, coupled with the stress of the house buying process and all of the associated fees. It has never been a better time to extend and modify your existing home rather than move.
There are lots of ways that you can extend, from a loft conversion to building over a garage, through to extending into the garden where space permits. Not only will you create the additional space that you need, but you will also increase the value of your home too with a well-planned and carefully designed house extension, which is where Mash Architecture can assist.
The benefits of extending your home
House extensions are on the increase. Moving home is costly, lengthy and associated with all kinds of problems such as broken chains, finding suitable properties and securing finance. Before you start planning your new extension, it’s important to consider a few things first:
Will your plans add value to your property – When it comes to large home improvements, it always makes sense to check that your ideas are actually going to add value to your home. It’s always worth seaking Architectural and design input to see how the addition will affect the value of your home.
Planning Permissions: Although you can complete certain extension projects without planning permission, due to permitted development rights, there are certain pitfalls which are easy to encounter and difficult to overcome. For example, knowing if your home has had permitted development rights removed, or whether you are located within a Conservation Area, isn’t always obvious. Mash Architecture are experts in Householder Planning Policy and with experience of carrying out many hundreds of home extensions, we can oversee the process and make it as stress-free as possible.
Building Regulations: Even if your extension doesn’t need planning permission, it must comply with current building regulations. You will need to ensure that the tradespeople who carry out the work are registered, approved or accredited in some way and they will liaise with building control as required to make sure all of the work is certified. We provide extremely detailed working architectural drawings, which enable all trades to work comfortably and clearly on site, minimising the risk of stress and complications.
Enjoying outdoor space
If you are lucky enough to have a property with a sizeable outdoor space, there’s nothing to stop you from extending into the garden area to make more space in your home. This idea rarely detracts from the garden area and with an innovate design and sound architectural input, you can easily merge the two spaces. Conservatories or kitchen / diners can provide convenient places to dine or to enjoy the outdoors. Some bi fold doors leading onto the garden or French doors can really open up space and flood your new extension with light, creating a welcome addition to your property. Please see our Architectural Project pages for examples.
Increasing indoor living space
If you have a growing young family, there may be a greater need for you to have separate areas to watch television and relax. With one living area, you can accommodate the requirements of different family members while giving your home that much needed extra space. An additional living room can serve as a games room, entertainment space or music room.
Additional bedrooms and guest rooms
The addition of a guest room not only provides extra space for a growing family, but it can also be used to accommodate friends or family who come to stay. You could even double the guest room up as a home office, study, studio or games room. Adding an extra bedroom to your home will increase its value too. Loft conversions are often a great way to achieve this, and we can advise you on the process from start to finish.
Refurbishment and renovation
Perhaps your home is tired, dated and in need of a makeover. A refurbishment, possibly in combination with an extension, can really make all the difference, and your new extension will no doubt give you all the space you need so that you enjoy your home again.
Mash Architecture Interiors Ltd offer a tailored Architectural service for each individual project. We have experience of successfully carrying out many hundreds of the types of projects described above. We also offer interior design, planning consultancy and project management services. And, whilst the majority of our work is carried out in the local authority areas of Leeds, Bradford, Harrogate, Calderdale and York, we do provide services across the North of England.
If you are thinking of undertaking such a project, and would like to do so in the most stress-free, affordable and efficient manner possible, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch via our contact page.
