Common House Extension Mistakes (Part 2)

An extension can be a fantastic way to add room, boost property value, and create a space that better suits your family or lifestyle. However, getting it wrong can be expensive, stressful, and sometimes irreversible.

Obtaining advice from an architect is invaluable. With many an extension under our belt, we have solved some of the most complicated challenges, often where others have failed. In part 2 of a 2-part series, we let you in on the most common house extension mistakes – and give you advice on how to avoid them.

Not Considering Your Neighbours

The Problem:

Extensions can be disruptive for you and your neighbours. Communicating with your neighbours from an early stage not only prevents potential conflict but helps guard against potential planning objections, delays and legal disputes.

If your extension requires planning permission and you do not communicate the details of your project, your neighbour may object to your application. If the extension infringes on your neighbour’s property, causes any damage, or negatively impacts the value of their home - you could face legal action.

Overlooking your neighbour’s concerns can lead to disputes or objections that stall your project.

The Solution:

Communicate early. Let your neighbours know your plans before submitting applications or starting work. Check if the Party Wall Act applies to your project, if work affects shared boundaries, you may require a formal agreement. In goes without saying that being considerate goes a long way toward maintaining good relationships.

At OVS, we can help you understand how your project might impact your neighbours, including considering any potential loss of light, views, and privacy.

Ignoring the Existing Structure

The Problem:

It’s easy to focus solely on the extension, without considering its relationship to the existing property. Not considering the transition between old and new can lead to awkward layouts, design inconsistencies and poor functionality. Your new extension may necessitate updates to your existing property that you hadn’t yet considered – such as existing plumbing, electrics and drainage.

Paying close attention to how an extension will integrate with your existing property also prevents you from ending up with a poorly placed extension that blocks natural light to existing rooms. In the excitement of adding existing square footage, you don’t want to end up compromising your existing home.

The Solution:

A skilled architect will ensure that your extension is integrated with the rest of your home. At OVS we design according to how you will move through the space, how levels will align, and whether updates to the original structure (like flooring, lighting, or heating systems) are needed to create cohesion. We love to maximise natural light, designing with skylights, large windows, glass doors, and light wells to celebrate light and space.

Check out some our journal 3 Loft Extensions to Inspire to see how good design can make an architectural statement while achieving cohesion with the existing structure.

Overextending

The Problem:

Bigger isn’t always better. While it’s tempting to maximise space, if your extension is disproportionate and unbalanced this can compromise the overall form and functionality of your home.

An overly large extension can impact on garden and outdoor space as well as block natural light. Poor daylight access can make for gloomy rooms and an increased reliance on artificial lighting – resulting in reduced energy efficiency.

From a financial perspective, an oversized or awkwardly designed extension can negatively impact resale value, especially if it doesn’t align with the character of the home or surrounding neighbourhood. Buyers may view it as overdeveloped or impractical, making it harder to sell.

Ultimately, a well-proportioned, thoughtfully designed extension that enhances both indoor and outdoor living is more valuable than simply adding square footage.

The Solution:

Work with an architect early. At OVS we will assess your home’s layout, natural light, and surrounding environment to design an extension that feels integrated and purposeful. We focus on improving how space is used in order to craft a space that uniquely complements your home and lifestyle. We make sure outdoor space, natural views, and ventilation are not sacrificed, and crucially, no two extensions designed by OVS are the same.

Neglecting Futureproofing

The Problem:

Building an extension for today’s needs without thinking about tomorrow is a common oversight. Remember that family sizes, accessibility needs, and lifestyle habits change.

The Solution:

Design with flexibility in mind. Consider whether the space could be repurposed later, such as turning a ground-floor office into a guest room. Adding sustainable and smart features such as insulation, solar panels, or underfloor heating can also futureproof your home and reduce bills.

Here to help

A successful home extension enhances both the functionality and value of your property. But to get there, it’s crucial to avoid shortcuts, plan thoroughly, and surround yourself with the right professionals. It is never too early in the process to get professional advice. Contact OVS today to discuss how we can help you on your journey to designing your dream extension.