Bungalows are one of the most underestimated but exciting architectural challenges. Their appeal is now much broader than the historically dominant retired market and large plots offer many exciting possibilities. Smaller extension possibilities can still yield transformational results.
The growth in apartment living means many customers are drawn to all habitable rooms being on one level and easy access to garden spaces. Bungalow extensions often create a Tardis-like experience with vaulted ceilings and use of glass that create a sense of theatre to shock the visitor when entering from an unassuming front elevation.
Extension options are endless, from garden rooms and orangeries to single-storey residential extensions, family rooms, barn conversions, kitchen extensions and imaginative uses of mezzanines and flat roofs that double as outside entertainment spaces. Carter’s have completed many of these schemes and relish the exciting possibilities to break new ground.
Dormer Loft Conversion
Dormer loft conversions are particularly popular when plot size is limited as they normally don’t increase the footprint of the bungalow but open up increased possibilities for the use of space. From a planning point of view, they are often allowed under permitted development but Carter’s will investigate potential hurdles such as location (within Conservation Areas, Article 4 Direction areas etc.), previous roof extensions and were facing a highway etc.
Planning permission is imperative if combined with a larger home remodelling project or additional extensions, the size of the extension will be a factor so it must be researched thoroughly.
Bungalow Conversion
If ridge heights are quite low, a full bungalow conversion can be advantageous, effectively turning a bungalow into a two-storey house. If significant increases in floor space, room space and numbers of bedrooms is required they are highly effective solutions.
Passive Home Conversions
We are also placing more and more emphasis on creating more environmentally friendly properties known as passive homes. Passive homes Preston have minimum requirements that must be achieved on space heating and cooling, airtightness, thermal comfort, and primary energy sources which although initially costs more to achieve in the construction phase, over time it can save up to 85% on energy bills making it a worthwhile investment. They also allow for heating and cooling-related energy savings of up to 90% compared with typical buildings and over 75% compared to carbon-neutral houses.
