Where To Start With Your Extension Project As with any major building project, you will need to match up your budget to the design. This initial phase will take a while to get right. Even though the space you have might seem small in comparison to the rest of the house, the design will need to pack a punch to make a real difference to the way you live.
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Design
For example if you’re adding a kitchen would you like it to be exposed to the morning sun? Then it needs to face the eastern elevation. And don’t forget to take into account the context of the site, including prevailing winds (which will help position vents to avoid them), and connection to existing house. To help you design the extension and put it to paper, you’ll therefore need an architectural designer. Check references and insurance, and make sure you like their style and speak to previous clients to make up your mind which architectural designer is the right one for you. The architectural designer can stay on during the construction phase and this is a wise decision because they will be able to check progress on site and act as a liaison with your builder. Some self-builders hire an engineer to carry out this technical role instead. You may need a structural engineer at the design stage too for things like specifying steel. In all likelihood you will also need to hire a building energy assessor. You may or may not need to get planning permission but in all cases, let your neighbours know what you’re up to as early as you can – ideally at the dreaming stage. It’s common courtesy and they may have information about your house or site that could be interesting to know.
