House extensions – Bungalow extension
London architect guide
Bungalow Extensions in London
Planning a bungalow extension in London is one of the most effective ways to transform how you live in your bungalow property.
Whether you need more natural light, better connection to your garden, or a flexible new bedroom or workspace, a carefully designed bungalow extension can help you stay rooted in the area you love while improving comfort levels and layout of your home for the long term.
At GOAStudio architects, we specialise in creating design-led, planning-savvy bungalow extensions across London. Here are the most important questions to ask when considering a bungalow extension with tailored guidance to help you move forward with confidence, focus, and clarity.
FOR ADDITIONAL ADVICE SEE THE FOLLOWING RESOURCES FOR YOUR HOME PROJECT
Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)
- Do I need an architect for my extension or home project?
- Why work with an architect?
- How do architects calculate their fees?
Planning Portal
Top 10 Tips for Planning Your Bungalow Extension
- Decide if you want to extend out, up, or both and why.
- Check planning policy early, especially if you’re in a Conservation Area.
- Ask your architect to use concept sketches to test different options and layouts.
- Prioritise natural light and the connection to the garden, especially if you are in a large plot and you are able to be surrounded by landscaped areas.
- Think about future flexibility i.e. ageing needs, resale, or changes to family circumstances.
- Speak to neighbours before serving Party Wall notices and check with a Surveyor to check if you need to serve Party Wall notices.
- Choose materials and finishes that suit both old and new parts of the home.
- Be clear about your total budget, including VAT and fees.
- Don’t underestimate site access or structural implications; ask your architect and structural engineer to advise.
- Work with professionals who know how to unlock the potential of your bungalow.
GOAStudio London residential architecture
George Omalianakis, BA (Hons) B.Arch Pg Dip Environmental Design.
Chartered RIBA architect and ARB registered.
RIBA Conservation Registrant specialism in conservation areas, period and Listed buildings.
Residential expert contributor for magazines including Which? magazine and Ideal Home.
Last reviewed by George Omalianakis for GOAStudio: August 2026
Can I extend my bungalow at ground level or upwards?
Yes, and you have got a range of options to do so.
Many London homeowners choose to extend outwards with a side or rear bungalow extension to create a generous, light-filled open-plan kitchen or dining area.
Others explore the possibility of building upwards, by adding a loft room, dormer extension, or even a full second storey.
The best solution depends on your goals, budget, and planning constraints. Some clients combine both approaches i.e. extending at ground level now and adding an upper floor later.
We assess the structure, plot layout, roof profile, and local planning policy to determine what’s possible and what makes the most sense for your priorities.
How much does a bungalow extension cost in London?
Costs vary by project type, but here’s a general guide for bungalow extension costs in London:
– Side or rear ground floor extensions: £2,500–£3,500+ per m²
– Loft conversions or dormers: £1,800–£2,800+ per m²
– Roof lifts with the addition of a new first floor: £75,000–£150,000+, depending on structure and finishes
These figures exclude VAT, design fees, kitchens or bathrooms. Your final cost will depend on the specifics of your design requirements, structural work necessary, glazing options, insulation, and the internal finishes you choose.
At GOAStudio architects, we will help you balance all the competing requirements and make smart design decisions for every square metre added to your bungalow.
Do I need planning permission or can I build under Permitted Development?
Some bungalow extensions, like modest side or rear additions, tend to qualify under Permitted Development (PD), which can save time and simplify the approval process.
However, many bungalow extensions require planning permission, especially if they:
– Increase the overall height of your home
– Include a full second storey or large roof change
– Are located in Conservation Areas or under Article 4 restrictions
We review each site on its own merits and we will advise you on the most viable planning route to include PD checks, Lawful Development Certificates, or full planning applications supported by precedent and context-led design.
What are the planning and construction constraints I should be aware of?
Your local authority planning team will assess how your bungalow extension affects neighbours, the local streetscape, and the original character of your property.
They may place limits on height, massing, and materials especially in Conservation Areas.
Structural constraints to consider include:
– Foundations and load-bearing walls
– Existing roof construction (e.g., trusses vs. cut roof)
– Site access for the removal of steelwork and demolition materials
– The location of existing services.
We coordinate planning and technical design together ensuring your extension meets both creative and construction requirements.
How long does a bungalow extension project take?
Most bungalow extensions in London take 9 to 12 months from first contact to completion. Typical project timeline:
– 4–6 weeks: measured survey and concept design
– 8 weeks: planning or PD approval
– 4–6 weeks: detailed design and tendering
– 4–6 months: on-site construction
More complex projects with structural changes, full raising of the roof, or party wall matters may take longer. We’ll provide a bespoke roadmap to help you plan your time, and to make necessary arrangements, around each key stage.
Will I need to move out during the works?
That depends on the type of extension.
For a bungalow extension at ground level, you can often remain in the home particularly with good planning during the design stage and contractor coordination during the construction stage.
You will liaise with the Contractor to agree safe working zones, dust protection, and how best to manage kitchen or bathroom disruption.
If you’re adding a new storey, you may need to vacate temporarily during structural and weatherproofing phases.
Do I really need an architect for a bungalow extension?
Yes. Bungalow extensions involve more than just adding extra space. They’re about transforming how your home functions and feels.
An experienced residential architect helps you:
– Unlock better layout, improve access to light and long sightlines
– Anticipate planning and technical issues early
– Work efficiently with consultants and contractors
– Maximise the long-term comfort and value of your home
GOAStudio architects works closely with structural engineers, energy consultants, and local planning teams so you get a smooth, joined-up experience from concept to completion.
How will my home feel different after a bungalow extension?
A well-designed bungalow extension creates more than just square metres added to your home. It delivers a home that:
– Feels lighter and more connected to the garden
– Has zones that suit your family life circumstances, working from home requirements, or relaxing quiet moments
– Uses space more efficiently by creating fewer small rooms and improves flow
– Offers better thermal performance and acoustic comfort
We design around how you live – now and in the years to come. Whether that means open-plan living, defined snug areas, or future-ready layouts, we help shape a space that evolves with your needs.
Will a bungalow extension add value to my property?
Absolutely. A professionally designed and well-built bungalow extension in London can add between £75,000 and £200,000+ in property value, depending on location, design, and floor area gain.
The biggest returns often come from:
– Creating a large, sociable kitchen/living area
– Adding an extra bedroom or bathroom
– Improving the home’s layout and energy performance
-Adding a new storey to double the floor area of the property.
Even if you’re not planning to sell soon, the extension will enhance your daily life giving you a home that functions better and feels more enjoyable to live in.
Request a free Feasibility Review
If you're not quite sure what’s possible, or whether now’s the right time, we can help you make an informed start.
Send over your address, a few photos, and a short outline of what you're hoping to achieve.
We’ll take a look at your site context, planning history, and potential constraints and respond with early advice tailored to your home and circumstances.
Email us with the subject “Feasibility Review” or send us your information through our Contact us page.
Book a Home Consultation
It is the ideal first step if you are planning works to your home or if you are in the middle of purchasing a property in need of renovation.
George will visit the property to understand its character, how you use the space day to day, and offer advice on all relevant design and other matters.
You will come away with a clear sense of your next steps and greater confidence to make informed decisions. The consultation (2hrs, £250 +VAT) is a standalone service with no obligation to proceed.
Visit our Contact us page to book.
Not sure where to start with your renovation or extension?
Read this before you meet an architect, speak to a builder or spend money on drawings.
This free, architect-prepared guide walks you through the 15 essential questions every homeowner should ask before starting a project.
"Should we renovate, extend… or walk away?
15 Questions every London homeowner must ask before starting a project to include homes in Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings."
Whether you're planning a modest rear extension or major alterations to a listed home, it will help you avoid expensive mistakes and give you clarity on what’s possible for your property. Includes guidance on:
Planning approvals. Conservation areas.
Timelines and costs. Appointments you need to make.
Design and sustainability options.
When to press ahead and when to walk away
We provide architectural services for residential projects in the following London Boroughs:
Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Hackney, Hammersmith and Fulham, Haringey, Islington, Kensington and Chelsea, Lambeth, Lewisham, Newham, Tower Hamlets, Waltham Forest, Wandsworth, Westminster
We specialise in
- Greener homes
- Retrofit and energy efficiency for older and traditional buildings
- Conservation areas
- Listed Buildings
- Homeowner architectural services
- Property developments architectural services
GOAStudio London residential architecture limited.
86-90 Paul Street, EC2A 4NE, Hackney
Chestnut Avenue South, E17 9EJ, Waltham Forest
t: 0203 984 3005
