What are the different types of house extensions?
In today’s property market, many homeowners are choosing to extend rather than move. Whether it’s to gain extra space for a growing family, create a dream kitchen, or add value to your home, a house extension is a popular and often cost-effective solution. We often get asked, “What are the different types of house extensions?” If you’re considering a house extension in Leeds, it’s important to understand the different types available and how each might suit your needs. At AKB Loft Conversions, we specialise not only in loft transformations but also in high-quality, bespoke home extensions tailored to your lifestyle.
Here’s a detailed look at the main types of house extensions to help you decide which is right for your property.
Rear Extension
A rear extension is one of the most common types of home extensions in the UK. It involves extending the back of your property, typically into the garden area.
Ideal For:
- Open-plan kitchen and dining areas
- Enlarged living spaces
- Seamless indoor-outdoor living
Rear extensions are particularly popular in detached and semi-detached homes. They usually cause minimal disruption to neighbours and, depending on size, may fall under permitted development rights.
Side Return Extension
This type of extension is ideal for Victorian or Edwardian terrace homes that have a narrow alley or unused strip of land at the side.
Ideal For:
- Creating larger kitchens
- Improving layout flow
- Maximising narrow or awkward spaces
A side return extension can dramatically transform the layout of your ground floor, opening up dark, cramped kitchens into light-filled, modern family hubs.
Wraparound Extension
A wraparound extension combines both a side return and rear extension, forming an L-shaped addition to the home. It offers substantial extra floor space and the opportunity to completely redesign the interior.
Ideal For:
- Large open-plan kitchen-diners
- Additional utility rooms or home offices
- Families needing more living space
While this type of extension can be more expensive, the return on investment is significant, especially when well designed. If you’re planning a house extension in Leeds, AKB Loft Conversions can help you create a wraparound extension that blends beautifully with your
Double Storey Extension
A double storey extension adds new space on two floors – usually a living area or kitchen extension downstairs, and an additional bedroom or bathroom upstairs.
Ideal For:
- Expanding both living and sleeping areas
- Adding a master suite or extra bathroom
- Long-term family needs
Though it requires more planning and may take longer to complete, the benefits of a double storey extension can be transformative. Not only does it double your added space, but it also significantly increases the value of your home.
Single Storey Extension
As the name suggests, this is a ground-level extension built to the rear or side of the property. It’s a simpler and often more affordable way to add extra space.
Ideal For:
- Open-plan kitchen and living areas
- Garden rooms
- Playrooms or home offices
Single-storey extensions are typically quicker to build and may not require full planning permission, especially if they stay within permitted development limits.
Over-Structure Extension (Above a Garage or Existing Room)
If your property has a garage or a flat-roofed extension already in place, you may be able to build above it to add a new room or two.
Ideal For:
- Additional bedrooms
- Home offices or playrooms
- Properties with limited garden space
It’s essential to assess whether the existing structure can support the additional load, and that’s where our team at AKB Loft Conversions can help with expert structural advice and planning.
Conservatory or Orangery
Though slightly different in design, both conservatories and orangeries provide additional living space with lots of natural light. Conservatories are often fully glazed, while orangeries use more brickwork and often blend more seamlessly into the home.
Ideal For:
- Garden rooms or sun lounges
- Informal dining areas
- All-season relaxation spaces
While conservatories are usually quicker and cheaper to build, orangeries provide better insulation and can be used comfortably year-round.
Choosing the Right Extension for Your Home
When deciding on a house extension, consider your goals, budget, the size of your plot, and the impact on your existing layout. Also, think about planning permissions, building regulations, and how the extension will harmonise with the rest of your property.
Working with an experienced, trusted builder is essential – and that’s where we come in.
Why Choose AKB Loft Conversions?
At AKB Loft Conversions, we are more than just loft specialists. We bring years of experience and a reputation for excellence to every house extension in Leeds. Our team handles everything from initial design and planning to construction and finishing touches, ensuring your new space is functional, beautiful, and tailored to your needs.
Whether you’re dreaming of a bright kitchen extension, an extra bedroom, or a full wraparound redesign, we can make it a reality.
Contact Us Today
Hopefully, this article has helped with the question,” What are the different types of house extensions?” Ready to start your home transformation? Get in touch with AKB Loft Conversions, your trusted experts for house extensions in Leeds. Give us a call today on 0113 436 0357 or send us a message via our website.
Let us help you create the home you’ve always wanted – one room at a time.