Double Storey Extension Ideas and Tips

An innovative solution for homeowners, double storey extensions can transform your living space, creating a bespoke home that’s completely unique to your needs and lifestyle.  If you’re looking for inspiration and advice on how to extend your home, look no further. In this guide, find all the inspiration you need with advice on building a two storey extension from the experts at BASE.

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Double storey extension ideas for your home

Rear extension

One of the most popular types of two storey extension is a rear extension. Utilising the space by building upwards, two storey rear extensions can add a great amount of living space to a property. Most typically, rear extensions focus on extending the kitchen area, creating additional counter space or adding an extra living area. Extra bedrooms or bathrooms can be added on the first floor. 

This extension project is perfect for properties with large back gardens and ample space at the back of the property. It is a particularly good investment if the rear of the property has unused space. For example, if your rear patio never gets the sun and is unused, a two-storey rear extension will utilise the space well, while adding considerable value to your property. Concertina double doors are a popular addition to this type of extension, enabling you to bring the outside in and effortlessly blend the interior with natural surroundings. 

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Side extension

Running along the side of the house, side extensions can create additional space on one side of the property, rather than extending the rear of the property. Properties with awkward layouts and minimal garden space can benefit most from a two storey side extension, as many designs are considerate of the narrow space available. Side extensions are a popular solution for homeowners with semi-detached houses or terraced houses, using the space effectively without compromising the rear space. 

Unlike single storey extensions, projects with two storeys or more will require planning permission, as well as full support from your local planning authority. This is due to the nature of the build and its potential impact on the neighbouring properties or view from the front of the house. 

Popular ideas include adding a utility room or a downstairs bathroom, while the upper storey lends itself as an office space or smaller bedroom. Side extensions are also considered as an innovative solution for adding more light into a property. Features such as large windows or skylights can bathe your home in natural light, without drastically altering the existing structure. 

Unsure about how much to spend on a two storey extension? Find out more in our double storey extension cost guide. 

Wraparound extension

With plenty of layout options and considerable extra space, wraparound extensions are the perfect design for maximising the additional square footage to your home.

Often popular for period properties, or family homes needing more space, a wraparound extension incorporates the features of a rear and side extension, resulting in an extension that wraps around the entire property. A popular solution for detached homes, wraparound extensions offer more scope, enabling you to maximise the layout of your home and add considerably more space. 

Creating a distinctive L shape, wraparound extensions can drastically alter the look and feel of your home, and can revolutionise older period properties to ensure the layout is adapted for modern living. Similarly, wraparound extensions eliminate any dead space surrounding the property, ensuring that the outdoor space is as utilised as the interior living space. Wraparound extensions are ideal for bespoke, spacious areas, such as a modern kitchen, a new utility room & pantry, a dressing room and ensuite, or a living-dining area. 

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Front extension

An alternative route compared to a traditional extension, a two-storey front extension can add plenty of character and lasting impact. Instantly adding depth and dimension, front extensions allow you to create additional spaces in your home without impeding on the existing living areas. For example, homeowners can add a dedicated area for coats and shoes, a tiled entryway for muddy boots, or a downstairs WC for visitors and guests. 

Expanding your existing hallway or entryway can also add a sense of grandeur, while a porch extension reduces clutter in other areas for a sense of cohesion. Double storey front extensions are also a great way to bathe your hallway in light and create a lasting impact with floor-to-ceiling windows, for example. Two storey front extensions also add lasting impact to the front exterior of the house, with an updated facade and doorway that adds curb appeal and brings a unique edge to your home. 

Dormer extension

Dormer extensions involve converting the attic space of a property, and are popular with homeowners looking to add more floor space and headroom. Dormer extensions are often incorporated into side extension or wraparound extension designs, as it is a cost-effective way to maximise existing floor space without encroaching on neighbouring properties. 

Often, attic spaces are unused and impractical, creating dead space with lots of potential but limited access. With plenty of innovative designs including a flat roof dormer, a shed dormer and a pitched dormer, you can enhance your property and add plenty of character, with unique features and finishes. 

Have an idea in mind? Speak with our visualisation team and bring your design to life. 

Two-storey orangery extension

Eye-catching, stylish and utterly unique, a two-storey orangery extension creates a one-of-a-kind living space that maximises natural light and truly brings the outside in. Ideal for entertaining or transforming unused garden space, a double-height orangery will add impact, class and character. 

Popular for period properties or detached buildings with plenty of space, orangery extensions always complement the original property design and exterior features, while also creating an entirely new space. Innovative and multi-functional, this classic structure is reimagined for contemporary living as a two storey orangery extension, adding value, charm and endless character to your home. 

Over-structure extension

Two storey over-structure extensions incorporate a single-storey structure that already exists and builds on top of it. For example, if you have an existing garage or utility room that’s single storey, an over-structure extension will add an additional storey without encroaching on floor space. This can be the perfect solution for homeowners looking to add additional rooms to their property without interfering with their existing garden.

Many over-structure extensions can also extend the floor space, depending on the exact requirements of the project. It’s worth noting that additional structural work may be needed to ensure the walls and roof can carry the load of another storey on top. 

For more inspiration and advice for your own double storey extension, check out our blog or contact our team of experienced architects to start your dream project today.