Extension Projects

They also show the two faces of extension work: the structural unknowns that only reveal themselves when the building opens up, and the planning rules that decide what a block will allow. In both cases the problems were real, the solutions were engineered, and the homes ended up feeling like the extension was always there.

['What these projects have in common', 'Both extensions were won or lost on engineering and staging. On the double-storey addition, the existing footings were inadequate for a second level — the kind of discovery that stalls projects for months — so our engineer redesigned around targeted underpinning instead of a full re-stump, saving weeks and a five-figure sum. On the rear extension, the planning setback rules threatened the whole concept, so we adjusted the design depth to sit inside the provisions and it was approved at first submission.', 'The staging mattered just as much. Sealed dust barriers, protected floors, live power and water, a working kitchen retained until the new one was commissioned — the logistics that let two families stay in their homes from demolition to handover. Living through an extension is entirely possible when the builder plans for the family first and the trades second.', 'If you are weighing an extension against moving house, read both case studies — then read our article on renovate-versus-rebuild. And if you want the living-at-home references themselves, ask; we will connect you with the families who actually did it.']

01 Extension Double-Storey Extension A parents' retreat and extra living space added above the existing home. View Project 02 Extension Open-Plan Living Extension A rear extension creating one connected kitchen, dining and living space. View Project

View all projects

IF YOU ARE PLANNING AN EXTENSION

PRACTICAL NOTES WORTH READING

Two investigations should happen before any extension price is signed: a structural assessment of what exists, and a planning check of what the block allows. Footings, rooflines, setbacks and coverage decide more about your project than any finishes selection, and finding them out early is the difference between a program and a prayer.

Extensions also carry the longest lead times of our three services — engineering, approvals and steel all take their weeks. Six months on site is a fair planning figure for a second-storey addition; four to five for a ground-floor expansion. Builders promising dramatically less are compressing something, and it is usually the parts you will feel.

Finally, the family question: decide early whether you will live at home through the works, and choose a builder who has actually managed it. Staged zones, sealed barriers, live services and a working kitchen are all achievable — our case studies above prove it — but only when they are designed into the program from day one.

COMMON QUESTIONS