New project in Kingston

Square One Architects is thrilled to share that we've been chosen to work on expanding a detached house in Kingston. This project gives us the chance to improve the current building by smoothly combining traditional and modern elements to make a practical and balanced living area. Our team is excited to collaborate with the client and develop creative designs that go beyond their needs.

The project will involve big changes to all parts of the property. It includes adding a new extension at ground level, an infill extension at first floor level, and extending the roof. These changes aim to make the property more practical, improve its layout, and make it look better. The project will be done thoughtfully, making sure the new parts fit well with the original design to create a unified structure.

The ground floor of the property will be designed to integrate the kitchen, dining, and living areas into an open plan layout, fostering a sense of spaciousness and fluidity. Additionally, the inclusion of a new utility room, pantry, and guest WC adds functionality and convenience to the living space. On the first floor, two bedrooms, a study, and a family bathroom will provide ample accommodation for residents. The proposed roof extension is intended to accommodate a new master bedroom with an en-suite bathroom and a walk-in wardrobe, adding a touch of luxury to the property's upper level.

We'll be posting more images to show the progress of the project. Keep an eye out for more glimpses of our current and upcoming architectural projects.

New project in East Sheen

We are excited to share that Square One Architects has been chosen for a new project in East Sheen.
The project is to extend a historic semi-detached house within a Conservation Area. Our goal is to preserve the original design while adding modern elements. Our team will pay close attention to every detail to make sure the extensions seamlessly integrate with the existing structure. We value the unique features that make this house special. Our aim is to enhance the value of the property and improve the overall area while respecting its history.
The project includes the replacement of a non-original conservatory and replacement with a new kitchen extension. We also plan to design a first-floor extension to create a new en suite. This project aims to improve the layout of the property and integrate it smoothly with the existing structure. By replacing the outdated conservatory with a modern kitchen extension, we will improve functionality and create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor areas. Adding a first-floor extension will provide a much-needed en suite, making the residents' lives more convenient and comfortable. Our proposed changes will respect the property's character while introducing contemporary design elements. We are excited to start this project and create an enhanced and optimized living space for our clients.

Maximizing Your Investment: Tips for Planning and Budgeting Your Extension Cost

If you're considering extending your home or property, you already know it's a major investment. Maximizing that investment requires careful planning and budgeting. From adding an extra room to expanding your living space, a well-executed extension can increase your property value and create a more comfortable living environment.

In this article, we will provide you with tips and strategies for planning and budgeting your extension cost effectively. Whether you're working with a limited budget or have more flexibility, we've got you covered. Our aim is to help you make informed decisions, avoid unnecessary expenses, and ensure that your extension project is a success.

We will discuss key factors to consider when planning your extension, such as design ideas, local regulations, and finding reliable contractors. We will also explore budgeting techniques and offer advice on cost-saving measures without compromising on quality. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and insights needed to make the most of your investment and achieve the extension of your dreams.

The importance of planning and budgeting for extension costs

Planning and budgeting are essential steps in any extension project. Without a clear plan and budget in place, you may encounter unexpected costs, delays, and other challenges along the way. By taking the time to plan and budget properly, you can minimize risks and maximize your investment.

When planning your extension, it's important to consider your goals and objectives. Are you looking to create additional living space? Or do you need an extra room for a specific purpose, such as a home office or a playroom for your children? By clearly defining your goals, you can ensure that your extension meets your specific needs.

Another important factor to consider is the design of your extension. It's crucial to create a design that complements your existing property and blends seamlessly with its surroundings. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also adds value to your property.

Factors to consider when budgeting for an extension

Before you start budgeting for your extension, it's important to consider various factors that can affect the overall cost. These factors include the size and complexity of the extension, the materials and finishes you choose, and any additional features or amenities you want to include.

It's also important to take into account any local regulations or permits that may be required for your extension. Depending on where you live, there may be specific building codes or zoning restrictions that need to be followed. Failing to comply with these regulations can result in costly fines or delays in your project.

Additionally, you should consider the potential impact on your property value. While an extension can increase the value of your home, it's important to ensure that the cost of the extension does not exceed the potential increase in value. It's a good idea to consult with a real estate professional or a property valuer to get an estimate of the potential return on investment.

Researching and estimating extension costs

Once you have a clear understanding of your goals and the factors that can influence your extension cost, it's time to research and estimate the costs involved. This can be done by gathering quotes from architects, suppliers, and other professionals involved in the project.

To get accurate estimates, it's important to provide detailed information about your extension plans. This includes the size and layout of the extension, the materials and finishes you want to use, and any additional features or amenities you require. The more specific you can be, the more accurate the estimates will be. This is where hiring a qualified architect can pay substantial dividends.

It's also a good idea to do some research on average extension costs in your area. This can give you a rough idea of what to expect and help you identify any potential cost-saving opportunities.

Creating a comprehensive extension budget

Once you have gathered all the necessary information and estimates, it's time to create a comprehensive extension budget. This budget should include all the costs associated with your extension, including materials, labor, permits, and any additional expenses.

Start by researching an estimated cost per square metre in your area. Be sure to include a contingency fund to account for any unexpected expenses that may arise during the project. It's a good idea to set aside at least 10% of your total budget for contingencies. Also do not forget VAT and keep in mind that this estimate should be treated as a very rough rule of thumb and not a reliable figure.

Next, prioritize your budget items based on your goals and preferences. If you're working with a limited budget, you may need to make some tough decisions and cut back on certain items. However, it's important to strike a balance between cost-saving measures and quality to ensure a successful outcome.

Tips for maximizing your extension budget

While it's important to create a realistic budget, there are several tips and strategies that can help you maximize your extension budget without compromising on quality.

First, consider the timing of your extension. Construction costs can vary depending on the time of year and market conditions. By scheduling your extension during the off-peak season or when contractors are less busy, you may be able to negotiate better rates.

Second, explore different material options. While high-end materials may be appealing, they can also significantly increase your costs. Look for cost-effective alternatives that offer similar benefits and durability. Remember, it's not always necessary to choose the most expensive option to achieve the desired result.

Third, consider doing some of the work yourself. If you have the skills and experience, taking on certain tasks can help reduce labor costs. However, it's important to be realistic about your abilities and only take on tasks that you're confident you can complete successfully.

Exploring financing options for your extension project

If you're working with a limited budget, you may need to explore financing options to fund your extension project. There are several options available, including personal loans, home equity loans, and home improvement loans.

Personal loans are unsecured loans that can be used for any purpose, including home renovations. They typically have higher interest rates and shorter repayment terms compared to other loan options.

Home equity loans allow you to borrow against the equity in your home. These loans offer lower interest rates and longer repayment terms, making them a popular choice for financing home improvement projects.

Home improvement loans are specifically designed for funding renovation projects. These loans often have lower interest rates and flexible repayment terms, making them an attractive option for extension financing.

It's important to carefully consider the terms and conditions of each financing option and choose the one that best suits your needs and financial situation. Be sure to compare interest rates, fees, and repayment terms to find the most favorable option.

Working with professionals: Hiring an architect and contractor

To ensure the success of your extension project, it's important to work with professionals who have the necessary expertise and experience. This includes hiring an architect to design your extension and a contractor to oversee the construction process.

An architect can help translate your ideas into a practical design that meets your needs and complies with local regulations. They can also provide valuable advice on materials, finishes, and other design elements. A thorough design will also allow to get precise quotes from several builders.

When hiring a contractor, it's important to do thorough research and obtain multiple quotes. Look for contractors who have experience in similar projects and have a good reputation in the industry. Ask for references and check online reviews to ensure that you're hiring a reliable and trustworthy professional.

Avoiding common budgeting mistakes during the extension process

During the extension process, it's important to avoid common budgeting mistakes that can undermine your project's success. One common mistake is not allowing for potential changes or modifications during the project. It's natural for things to evolve as the construction progresses, and you may need to make adjustments along the way. Be prepared for these changes and have a contingency fund in place to accommodate them.

Finally, it's important to track and monitor your extension budget throughout the project. Regularly review your expenses and compare them to your budget to ensure that you're staying on track. If you notice any significant deviations, take immediate action to address the issue and avoid any cost overruns.

How to track and manage your extension budget effectively

Tracking and managing your extension budget effectively is crucial to the success of your project. Here are some tips to help you stay on top of your finances:

1. Use a spreadsheet or budgeting software to keep track of your expenses. This will allow you to easily monitor your spending and identify any areas where you may be overspending.

2. Regularly review your budget and compare it to your actual expenses. This will help you identify any discrepancies and take corrective action if needed.

3. Communicate regularly with your contractor and other professionals involved in the project. Keep them informed of your budget constraints and ensure that they are aware of any changes or modifications that may affect the cost.

4. Be proactive in managing your budget. If you notice any potential issues or cost overruns, address them immediately to avoid any further complications.

By following these tips, you can effectively track and manage your extension budget, ensuring that your project stays on track and within your financial limits.

Conclusion: The benefits of proper planning and budgeting for your extension project

Proper planning and budgeting are essential for maximizing your investment and ensuring the success of your extension project. By taking the time to carefully plan your extension and create a comprehensive budget, you can minimize risks, avoid unnecessary expenses, and achieve the extension of your dreams.

Consider your goals and objectives, research and estimate extension costs, and create a realistic budget that prioritizes your needs. Maximize your extension budget by exploring cost-saving measures and financing options.

Work with professionals who have the necessary expertise and experience, and avoid common budgeting mistakes during the extension process. Track and manage your extension budget effectively to stay on top of your finances and ensure a successful outcome.

By following these tips and strategies, you can make the most of your investment, create a more comfortable living environment, and increase the value of your property.

House extension in Twickenham

Check out the pictures of our latest project for a house extension.

This was a very interesting project that we carried out between 2018 and 2019 for a family of three with a small child. The project was in Twickenham and it included a first-floor extension and internal alterations to a peculiar Edwardian house dating from the 18th century.

The existing house included some interesting features; however, it had also been altered and extended in several moments in time and its overall feeling was not very cohesive from a design perspective.

The client had two requests: the first one was to add a bedroom and the second one was for a design that would create a sense of cohesion throughout the property.

The house was located just outside the Twickenham Green Conservation Area and this was quite a lucky coincidence, because obviously being within a conservation area means that you must take on board the conservation officers’ opinion.

From a planning perspective the project presented its own difficulties. With the client we agreed to submit a design for a first-floor extension to the rear. This type of extensions is always quite challenging planning-wise because of the potential to block other properties’ windows and to give a sense of enclosure to the neighbors, especially in a terraced house type of scenario.

The other challenge was the presence of a property nearby that was owned by a developer who had submitted a planning application proposing several alterations that would have an impact on our clients’ property, once implemented. In other words, everything we proposed had to consider the ongoing development next door.

At the very beginning of the project we considered several options. The first one was a very simple loft extension and the second one was a first-floor rear extension. We analysed all these options with the client and ultimately the decision ended up being made on both a design and a financial basis. The first-floor extension proved to be more efficient from both a spatial and especially a financial point of view. It also allowed to level up the ceiling of the property creating a more cohesive internal look.

The result is a project that that optimized the existing layout of the house, added a much needed extra bedroom, eliminated all internal steps and created consistent ceiling levels throughout the whole property.

Project schedule #5 House Extension in Byfleet and New Haw

Project schedule

Year: 2018-2019

Location: Byfleet and New Haw, Runnymede Borough Council

RIBA Design Stages: 0-5

Architect:

Square One Architects

Structural Engineer:

Glencross & Hudson

Building Control:

Assent Building Control

This project was for an extension to a large detached house in Byfleet and New Haw for a family of three with a small child.

When the client got in touch with us in first instance, we visited the site and found that the house needed a renovation. The client was also not satisfied with the ground floor arrangement that was very partitioned and formed rooms that where both small and dark.

At first floor level the layout was more acceptable, however the house lacked the presence of a real master bedroom with a dressing area and an en-suite bathroom, which is something that you would expect from a property of this size.

Our brief was to extend a house with a rear extension and form a new open plan layout including a kitchen, dining area and sitting area. The client also requested a first-floor side extension on top of an existing garage that would provide space for an en-suite bathroom and dressing area linked to an existing bedroom.

We considered two options for the existing garage. The first one was to retain it and build on top of it and the the second one was to demolish and rebuild. As it often happens in these cases the option to replace the existing garage ended up being more cost-effective. It is not unusual to find period structure that are not able to carry any extra load from a structural point of view, especially at foundation level. In these instances, we always suggest our clients to hire a builder for a couple of hours, perform several trial pits and then submit the results to a structural engineer that will decide whether the existing structure is suitable or not. All the details will then need to be confirmed with Building Control.

The ground floor rear extension also features a set of large bi-fold doors that opens towards the rear garden and a window in correspondence of the kitchen sink. A set of two large flat roof lantern skylights also help bringing daylight in the new open plan area.

The first-floor side extension also features rear and front windows and a large skylight that guarantees uniform levels of daylight throughout the whole floor plan.

The clients’ feedback was very positive, and we appreciated hearing that they used their new spaces in a more practical way with their toddler always in sight. That's a big advantage of open plan layouts!

Before and after images

Rear elevation

Kitchen and dining area

Front elevation

Project schedule #2 Home extension in East Sheen

Project Schedule

Year: 2017-2018

Location: East Sheen, London Borough of Richmond upon Thames

RIBA Design Stages: 0-5

Architect: Square One Architects

Structural Engineer: Glencross & Hudson

Building Control: Building Control Approval

The client for this project, a family of 5 with 3 small children, came to us in 2017 with a very specific brief. They had obtained planning permission using another architectural firm; however, they were not happy with the overall design.

The original project included a side extension, a rear extension and a first-floor infill extension. Despite getting planning approval for a significant additional square footage, the client was not very happy with the overall design and felt that not enough time and care had been spent in the  initial design phases (concept and schematic design) in order to agree a plan.

In this instance our first goal was to optimize the existing plan. Since the very beginning it became obvious that we would have had to go back to the planners with an amendment to the original planning application. The new plans were thoroughly discussed with the client until the layout was totally agreed.

Revised drawings were then submitted and subsequently agreed with the council. The side extension included a bedroom with a small living space and an en-suite bathroom to be used as a granny annexe for the clients’ aging parents.

The rear extension included an open plan kitchen, dining area and living space for the family.

The first-floor infill extension included a new large family bathroom (the original property was curiously lacking a shared bathroom and featured only two en-suite bathrooms).

The client also asked us to design a loft extension for the property an include a bedroom with an additional en-suite bathroom to be used by their au-pair.

The original four-bedroom house was turned into a generous 6-bedroom property with a well-proportioned family bathroom, three en suite bathrooms and plenty of open plan space to be shared with the client’s growing family. We were thoroughly pleased with the results and received a very positive feedback from the client.

BEFORE AND AFTER IMAGES

Rear elevation

Kitchen and dining area

Kitchen and living area

Ground floor entrance

Guest WC

Our new project for a house extension in Byfleet & New Haw

A pretty dramatic before and after image of the front our recent project for a detached house in Byfleet and New Haw

The pictures above show the dramatic difference between the existing detached house in Byfleet and New Haw before and after the extension and refurbishment works.

When we first met the client in 2018, we found a property with lots of potential but very tired both externally and internally. The house needed a full refurbishment and several improvements were also necessary in order to maximize the use of internal spaces.

In the picture to the right our first-floor side extension can be seen to the left. The purpose of this extension was to add a new dressing area and en-suite bathroom with a window on the front of the house. Both the dressing room and en-suite have been designed to be directly connected to an existing bedroom that the clients decided to use as their master bedroom.

The project also included new rendering to the front, sides and rear of the property and the ground floor rear extension along with several internal alterations to create an open plan space at ground floor level.

It was a remarkably interesting project, with a proactive client who put a lot of stress on the importance of design.

We are incredibly happy with the result and final pictures of the standard property can be seen here.

When we went to site we also filmed a video showing the ground floor of the property. It can be visualized here.

Side extension in Hampton

We are happy to share the first picture of our new project for the side extension of a lovely semi-detached house in Hampton village. This extension has been carefully designed to match the existing architecture and add modern features. Our team is excited to bring this vision to reality, creating a space that fits in with the surroundings and makes the property more attractive. Keep an eye out for more updates on this exciting project!

The client first approached us in 2015 with a request to make some much-needed alterations to their semi-detached house. One of the main issues they faced was a poorly built extension, which they wanted to upgrade to create a new and improved en-suite bathroom and walk-in wardrobe for their master bedroom. In addition to the extension, the project also involved a complete redesign of the rear garden. This redesign included the installation of elegant York paving stones in front of the extension, providing a visually appealing and functional outdoor space. As part of the garden overhaul, the removal of an existing greenhouse was also planned. The end result would be a more usable and attractive garden that will significantly enhance the overall aesthetic of the property.