Double Storey Extensions

When it comes to designing the internal layout for the upper floor of your double storey extension, the possibilities are as diverse as your imagination. While a bedroom might be the conventional choice for the upper half of your extension, at Get Rapid Plans, we encourage you to explore alternative ideas that can truly transform your living space. Here are some fresh perspectives to consider:

1. Second Bathroom: Enhance the functionality of your home by incorporating a second bathroom on the upper floor. This addition not only caters to the needs of your family but also adds value to your property. Imagine the convenience of having an en-suite bathroom adjoining a bedroom, providing a private retreat for relaxation.
2. Playroom or Nursery: If you have or plan to have children, the upper floor can be dedicated to creating a vibrant playroom or a cozy nursery. This space can evolve with your family’s needs, accommodating playtime activities, learning, and relaxation.
3. Home Office or Study: As the demand for home offices continues to rise, consider crafting a tranquil workspace on the upper floor. A well-designed home office or study provides a dedicated environment for productivity, ensuring your work-life balance thrives.
4. Library Retreat: For the avid readers and book enthusiasts, a small library on the upper floor can become a serene haven for literary exploration. You can create a personalized space where you can escape into the pages of your favorite books.
5. Connecting Spaces: The upper floor extension can seamlessly connect with existing rooms. An en-suite bathroom can elevate the comfort of the master bedroom, while an extended bedroom, bathroom, or playroom can provide the much-needed space for your growing needs.

At Get Rapid Plans, we understand that your home is a reflection of your lifestyle and aspirations. Our expertise lies in translating your vision into a functional and aesthetically pleasing design. Whether you’re leaning towards a traditional approach or seeking innovative solutions, our team is here to guide you through the design process.

Call us now to embark on your journey towards a creatively designed upper floor for your double storey extension. Get Rapid Plans is here to transform your ideas into a beautiful reality.

Starting on a two-storey extension project requires careful consideration of the rules and regulations that govern such developments. At Get Rapid Plans, we’re here to provide you with clear insights into the guidelines you need to know. Here are the key regulations to keep in mind when planning a two-storey extension:

1. Rear Extension Limits: For a house with more than one storey, your extension cannot exceed three metres past the back wall of your house. This ensures a balanced and harmonious addition to your existing structure.
2. Eaves Height: If your extension is within two metres of a boundary, the maximum height of the eaves must not exceed three metres. This maintains a respectful distance from neighboring properties.
3. Ridge and Eaves Height: The ridge and eaves height of your extension must not surpass the existing height of your property. This maintains the architectural integrity of your home’s silhouette.
4. Minimum Distance from Boundaries: Your extension must be at least seven metres away from the rear boundaries. This regulation ensures a spacious layout and respects the privacy of neighboring properties.
5. Roof Pitch: The pitch of your extension’s roof should align with or closely match the pitch of your existing property. This cohesive design approach creates a seamless transition between old and new.
6. Raised Platforms and Balconies: Planning permission is required for raised platforms, verandas, or balconies. This ensures that structural modifications are in line with safety and aesthetic considerations.
7. Upper-Floor Windows: Windows on the upper floor in the roof slope or side elevation must be obscure-glazed and non-opening. This maintains privacy and architectural consistency.
8. Designated Land: Permitted development rights do not cover two-storey extensions on designated land. This underscores the importance of seeking proper approvals for such projects.
9. Material Consistency: The exterior of your extension should use materials that closely resemble those of the existing property. This ensures a cohesive and visually pleasing appearance.

At Get Rapid Plans, we specialize in translating regulations into practical design solutions. Our team of experts is dedicated to guiding you through the process of designing and obtaining the necessary permissions for your two-storey extension. We understand the significance of adhering to regulations while creating a space that reflects your unique style and preferences.

Call us now to start on your journey towards a beautifully designed and compliant two-storey extension. Get Rapid Plans is here to make your extension dreams a reality.

Building Regulations play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety, quality, and compliance of any construction project, including extensions. At Get Rapid Plans, we recognize the importance of adhering to these regulations to guarantee the success of your project. Here’s what you need to know about Building Regulations and how we can help you navigate this crucial aspect of your extension:

Understanding Building Regulations:

Most building work, whether large or small, needs to comply with Building Regulations. While certain minor outbuildings might be exempt if they fall under a certain size, and internal house modifications may not require Building Control approval if they involve no structural changes, all extensions must adhere to Building Regulations. This ensures that your extension meets specific safety and quality standards.

Approval Process:

Every extension, regardless of its size or complexity, requires approval from the Local Authorities Building Control team or a private building inspector. Some homeowners mistakenly believe that small extensions don’t require approval, but this is not the case. Failing to obtain Building Regulation Approval can have legal and financial implications, affecting property sales and insurance claims.

Benefits of Compliance:

Compliance with Building Regulations offers multiple benefits, such as safeguarding the structural integrity of your extension, ensuring fire safety measures, and adhering to energy efficiency standards. It also ensures that your project is monitored by experts who can spot issues before they escalate, potentially saving you time and money in the long run.

Cost and Process:

The cost of Building Regulations Approval depends on the scope of the work and the size of your extension. The expense is a small investment compared to the overall project cost and offers peace of mind knowing that your extension is built to code.

Professional Assistance:

While builders, architects, or designers can arrange Building Control approval, Get Rapid Plans is here to guide you through the process. We help you integrate compliance with Building Regulations seamlessly into your extension plans. Our expertise ensures that your extension is monitored and inspected at critical stages, minimizing the risk of issues arising later.

Completion Certificates:

Once your application is registered and the work is completed, you will receive confirmation and final certificates. These documents are essential for record-keeping, property sales, and insurance purposes. We encourage homeowners to ensure they receive these certificates to validate the successful completion of their extension.

Navigating Building Regulations doesn’t have to be daunting. With Get Rapid Plans, you have a trusted partner to guide you through every step, from planning to completion. Don’t compromise on the safety and quality of your extension—contact us today to start your extension project with confidence.

Call us now to embark on your extension journey with the assurance of Building Regulations compliance. Get Rapid Plans is dedicated to delivering extensions that exceed your expectations while meeting all regulatory requirements.

If you’re contemplating when a double storey extension could be the right choice for your home, several key factors come into play. When you find yourself in need of more living space within your current property, a double storey extension presents itself as an optimal solution. This extension type grants you the opportunity to seamlessly integrate an entire additional floor to your house, providing ample room for various purposes such as accommodating a growing family, establishing a dedicated home office, or creating a comfortable guest suite.

Consider a double storey extension when you want to:

1. Expand Living Space: The core advantage lies in the substantial increase in living space. This extension can significantly enhance your home’s interior, offering versatility for entertaining guests, working remotely, or simply enjoying your living environment to the fullest.
2. Tailored Design: A double storey extension grants you the creative freedom to shape the design according to your unique preferences. Whether you envision an open-plan layout to foster a contemporary feel or prefer a more traditional arrangement, our expertise can help materialize your vision.
3. Enhanced Natural Light: By incorporating additional windows and doors into your extension’s design, you not only enlarge your living area but also infuse your home with an abundance of natural light. This transformation enhances the brightness and inviting ambiance of your living spaces.
4. Increased Property Value: Investing in a double storey extension not only augments your home’s functionality but also elevates its overall value. By expanding the available space and introducing valuable amenities, you’re making a strategic investment for the future resale value of your property.

At Get Rapid Plans, we understand the significance of each step in the extension process, from design to execution. If you’re contemplating a double storey extension, our team is ready to collaborate with you, ensuring your project aligns perfectly with your needs and aspirations. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for comprehensive architectural solutions that transform your house into the ideal living space. Call us today to embark on your double storey extension journey.

Embarking on a double storey house extension is an exciting endeavor that can transform your living space. However, it’s essential to understand the regulations, permissions, and processes involved to ensure a smooth and successful project. Here’s a breakdown of the key considerations:

Permitted Development Rights:

When planning a double storey extension, it’s crucial to adhere to permitted development rights. These rights grant you the ability to extend your property without the need for planning permission, provided you meet specific criteria. Here are some key constraints to keep in mind:

– Area: The extension’s area must be less than 50% of the total free area around the house.

– Appearance: The exterior appearance of the extension should harmoniously blend with the existing house and the neighborhood’s aesthetics.

– Width: The width of the extension should be within 50% of the width of the existing house.

– Length: For terraced or semi-detached houses, the maximum length of rear extensions is 3m. Detached houses can extend up to 4m.

– Height: Two-storey extensions must not exceed the height of the existing house’s eaves. Single-storey extensions are permitted if the distance to the boundary is less than 2m.

– Balconies and Terraces: Balconies and terraces are not allowed under permitted development rights.

– Designated Areas: Note that rules for permitted development are more stringent in designated areas.

Certificate of Lawful Development:

Even if your project falls within permitted development rights, obtaining a certificate of lawful development from your local council is advisable. This certificate confirms that your extension adheres to the constraints of permitted development.

Planning Permission:

If your extension plans do not align with permitted development rights, you’ll need to apply for planning permission. The complexity of your proposed work might also involve pre-planning considerations.

At Get Rapid Plans, we specialize in guiding homeowners through the intricacies of extension projects. Whether you’re aiming for a double storey extension, adhering to permitted development rights, or obtaining planning permission, our experienced team is here to support you. We prioritize transparent communication, regulatory compliance, and delivering your vision within your budget.

If you’re considering a double storey extension or any other architectural project, reach out to us today. Let’s discuss your ideas, address your queries, and create a path towards transforming your home with confidence. Contact us to embark on a successful extension journey.

For properties with unused or underutilized side areas, a double storey side extension can optimize the space, transforming it into functional and versatile living spaces. Ultimately, a double storey side extension is a practical and versatile option for homeowners seeking to expand their living space, add value to their property, and customize their home to suit their evolving needs. It offers a unique opportunity to make the most of available space and create a personalized and spacious living environment.