Are you feeling the pinch in your current home? Maybe your family has grown, you’re now working from home more than ever, or you simply crave a little extra breathing room. If so, you’re not alone. Across the UK, thousands of homeowners face the same challenge: how to create more living space without the stress and cost of moving.
Enter the single storey house extension—a practical, stylish, and often surprisingly affordable way to unlock up to 30% more living area. From open-plan kitchens to serene garden rooms, these versatile extensions can transform your space, boost your property’s style, and, according to RICS data, even increase your home’s value by 10-20%. No wonder so many are looking into single storey extensions as the go-to solution!
Why Choose a Single Storey House Extension?
Choosing a single storey house extension over a loft conversion or a full two-storey build comes with distinct advantages. Let’s unravel why so many UK homeowners are opting for these clever add-ons.
Space Maximization
A single storey extension lets you add valuable square footage exactly where you need it—be it a spacious kitchen, a light-filled office, or a dedicated playroom. Unlike loft conversions, you don’t sacrifice storage or upper-level bedrooms. Better yet, you keep your garden views and natural light.
Style Upgrade
Modern extension designs blend seamlessly with your existing home, often enhancing its overall appeal. Imagine bi-fold doors opening onto your garden, or a sleek, open-plan kitchen with a skylight overhead. The possibilities are endless and suited to both period homes and contemporary builds.
Value Boost
A well-planned single storey house extension isn’t just about space—it’s an investment. According to Zoopla, homes with thoughtful extensions can sell up to 15% faster and command premiums of £20,000 to £50,000 or more. This is especially true for popular home extension ideas like kitchen diners or family rooms.
Sustainability
Today’s extensions can be as green as they are gorgeous. Opt for insulated roof panels, A-rated windows, and energy-efficient lighting to keep running costs low. Many designs even achieve or exceed the latest UK building standards for insulation and energy use.
Pros & Cons Table: Single Storey Extension vs. Alternatives
| Feature | Single Storey Extension | Loft Conversion | Two-Storey Extension |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | £ (lower) | ££ | £££ (higher) |
| Build Time | 8-12 weeks | 6-10 weeks | 12-16+ weeks |
| Planning Ease | Often simpler | May need stairs | More regulations |
| Space Gained | Kitchen/living/bedroom | Bedrooms/storage | Multiple floors |
| Garden Impact | Some loss | None | Some loss |
| Value Added | 10-20% | 10-15% | 15-25% |
Popular Single Storey House Extension Ideas
Let’s dive into some of the most inspiring and practical single storey house extension ideas. Whether you want to create a sociable kitchen-diner, a quiet work space, or a wow-factor family room, these concepts cater to a variety of needs and budgets.
Rear Kitchen Extension
The classic rear kitchen extension is a perennial favourite—and for good reason! By extending into your garden, you can transform a cramped, outdated kitchen into a bright, open-plan hub for cooking, dining, and entertaining.
Key Features:
- Island units for breakfast or casual meals
- Skylights or roof lanterns to flood the space with natural light
- Underfloor heating for comfort
- Bi-fold doors connecting directly to the garden
Pros:
- Maximizes family living space
- Great for indoor-outdoor entertaining
- High ROI for most UK homes
Side-Return Extension (for Terraced Houses)
If you live in a Victorian or Edwardian terrace, that narrow alley beside your house could be prime real estate! Side-return extensions reclaim this “dead” space, perfect for a utility room, study, or kitchen expansion.
Why Consider?
- Preserves most of your garden
- Hardly visible from the street—keeps curb appeal intact
L-Shaped Family Extension
An L-shaped or “wrap-around” extension combines rear and side builds to create a large, flexible living area. This is particularly popular in bungalow extensions, where you can reconfigure the entire ground floor.
Design Touches:
- Vaulted ceilings for drama and space
- Lantern roofs to bring in daylight
- Flexible spaces for dining, lounging, and play
Pros:
- Huge open-plan potential
- Can add up to 40m² or more
Cons:
- Higher build costs
- More likely to need planning permission
Value Add: Up to 15% price premium in family-friendly areas
Modern Glass Orangery Extension
Dreaming of a sun-drenched, plant-filled retreat? A modern glass orangery uses expansive glazing, creating an airy garden room that’s usable year-round.
Eco Angle:
- Thermal glass keeps heat in winter, out in summer
- Solar panel integration for sustainability
Pros:
- Floods space with daylight
- Adds wow-factor
Cons:
- More expensive glazing
- Needs careful planning for privacy
Cost Table: Orangery Extension
| Size (m²) | Low-End Cost | High-End Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | £20,000 | £35,000 |
| 20 | £38,000 | £60,000 |
Home Office or Gym Pod Extension
The pandemic changed how we live and work—and demand for home offices and gyms has soared. A single storey house extension can create these spaces, either attached or as a detached “pod” in the garden.
Why It Works:
- Modular prefab options = fast install, less mess
- Detached pods often avoid planning hurdles
Pros:
- Flexible use (office, studio, fitness)
- Can be built off-site for rapid assembly
Cons:
- Smaller space than main extension
- Utilities (water, heating) may cost extra
Multi-Functional Living Room Extension
Yearning for a bigger lounge to host movie nights or family parties? Extend your living room into the garden with bi-fold doors, media walls, and eco-friendly touches.
Trends:
- Reclaimed wood for floors and shelving
- Feature lighting and built-in speakers
Pros:
- Customisable to your lifestyle
- Seamless garden access
Cons:
- Can lose garden space
- May require structural supports
Master Suite Bedroom Extension
Turn your bedroom into a private sanctuary with an en-suite bathroom and walk-in wardrobe. This is especially popular in bungalow rear extensions or detached homes.
Pros:
- Extra privacy and luxury
- Attracts buyers seeking high-end features
Cons:
- Plumbing may add to costs
- Planning permission needed for larger builds
Entertainment Room or Cinema Extension
For film buffs or entertainers, dedicate your extension to a soundproofed cinema room or games lounge. Add a home bar or gaming zone for the ultimate retreat.
Pros:
- Bespoke space for hobbies and fun
- Increases home appeal
