Extensions
Side and rear additions add room at ground level to an existing house. Residential extensions can add an extra story when the structure allows.Can't find it? Describe what you need and matching suppliers will come to you.
Extensions
More to discover
Explore all project categories
About Extensions projects
Planning residential extensions begins with the rooms already in use: where movement is awkward and where space falls short. Published projects in the United States, including Aperture House by Faye + Walker Architecture, offer examples for discussing how new work can relate to an existing home. Compare project floor plans, where available, with your own layout rather than judging an addition by its exterior alone.
Residential Extensions
The connection between old and new deserves as much attention as the added floor area. A project such as Tree House Sun Room by Scott Wilson Architect can help guide discussions about daylight and access between rooms. Look at how doorways and changes in floor level affect circulation, then consider the roof junction and drainage with your architect. These details belong in the early brief because they influence both the design and the construction scope.
What should I prepare before meeting an architect?
Bring existing floor plans, a property survey if available, and a brief describing which rooms no longer work for you. Note which parts of the house need to remain usable during construction.
How do I find out what my property allows?
Check setback and lot coverage requirements with your local planning department before settling on a footprint. Ask your architect to identify permit requirements and any restrictions affecting the property.
When should a structural engineer be involved?
Involve a structural engineer early if the work changes load-bearing walls or adds loads to existing framing. Have the foundation and proposed connections assessed before the design is finalized.