Maximise Your Living Space with a Modern Double Storey Extension

In a modern day and age when shifting home is a costly and hectic endeavour, a large number of homeowners all over the UK are finding the magic of a double storey extension. Whether it is the need to provide more space to an expanding family, the need to add an ensuite and a bedroom, or even the need to future-proof your home by adding a larger kitchen-diner and a more functional living accommodation, a double storey extension is one of the most practical and value-adding investments you can have.

So, why not take a closer look at why this option becomes more and more popular, what it implies, and how you can take advantage of this clever idea?

Double Storey Extensions: A Smart Solution for Growing Families

A double storey addition would provide the ideal compromise to families who adore their neighbourhood, but are soon running out of space. Rather than confronting the increasing expenses and unknown quantities of relocating, you can develop downwards, increasing your home with considerable square footage without sacrificing any valuable garden space.

To find out the cost of a double-storey extension for your dream home, click here to learn more. 

The best kind of extension to maximise on your home footprint would be a double storey one. Whether you want to extend your kitchen and living space on the ground floor or create more bedrooms and bathrooms on the first floor, this kind of extension allows you to re-design the way your home serves you now, and in future years.

It is not necessarily about increased space, but about improved space. Open-space design, work-at-home studios, second living rooms or even home gymnasiums can be developed without moving your postcode.

What is a Double Storey Extension and Why Choose One?

A double storey extension, as the name implies, is an expansion purely upwards and outwards, you end up with new rooms on two levels, normally at the back or side of your house. That is unlike single-storey extensions that merely provide a ground floor extension and, in most cases, result in a compromise situation regarding the remaining house design.

There are a lot of reasons why you should opt for a double storey extension. It not only gives you twice the space of a single-storey construction, but in many cases will give you a better value per square metre since you are already paying to have groundworks, foundations and a roof done- things that both floors will be using. In investment terms, it is a clever method of attaining a fantastic value to your property, in particular, locations where space is at a premium.

Besides, through careful planning and contemporary design strategies, the addition can be perfectly incorporated in the original design of your home, both in terms of its functional value and aesthetics.

Planning Permission and Structural Considerations

One of the most important aspects of any home extension work is the need to realise whether you will require planning permission and with double storey extensions, the likelihood is that you will do.

Although certain single storey extensions might be permitted development rights, doubles storey projects have higher chances of needing formal permission from your local planning authority. This is especially the case when the extension will affect the properties of neighbours or will bear a major change on the outward look of your house.

Structural factors are of paramount importance as well. A second storey will increase the weight and loading demands, and accordingly, your current foundations will require inspection by a structural engineer. You may need to underpin them: that is, make them deep and strong enough, which is worth factoring into your budget and timescale.

A well-prepared plan will include professional drawings, approval of the building regulations and a detailed schedule of the project. To legally and smoothly work through these aspects, it is important to work with experienced architects and builders.

Cost Breakdown: How Much Does a Double Storey Extension Cost in 2025?

In 2025, the cost may range based on location, size, materials and intricacy of the design, but approximately you will be looking to pay anywhere between £2500 – £3200/ sqm to get a good quality double storey extension. On a standard 40m² extension, that would be between £100,000 and £130,000.

This budget normally covers construction, plumbing, electrics, plastering and simple finishes but does not always cover high specification kitchens, custom-made joinery or expensive bathroom suites. Architect fees, planning application costs and structural engineering reports will need to be added to your considerations as well.

It is a big investment, but it is important to mention that a well-planned double-storey extension can add 20-30% to the value of your home, particularly in areas with high demand.

Popular Design Ideas for Two Storey Extensions

Contemporary double storey extensions are flexible in terms of need and style; they can be designed to be streamlined and modern or traditional and classic. The following are some of the current most trending design ideas in UK homes:

• Open-plan kitchen & dining: A spacious kitchen and dining room with skylights, island counters and bi-fold doors to the garden on the ground floor.
• Additional bedrooms with ensuites: An extra bedroom or two with ensuites at the top of the stairs is a priority addition to any growing family or a family that has guests.
• Second family room/play room: Ideal for families that require spaces that can be converted into a family/children play area.

The possibilities are limitless with the aid of a good architect. Design is not merely spatial, but it should improve your way of life.

How to Find the Right Builder or Architect for the Job

According to the success of your double storey extension project, it is important to choose the right professionals. An architect who can interpret your wishes into a workable design that will pass regulations, and a builder with a track record in multi-storey residential construction will be what you will want.

Seek companies that have great portfolios and look out for reviews. Ask them to show you examples of similar projects they have done, and ask them to provide detailed and written quotes. It goes without saying that communication is the most important aspect of it all; you want to be sure that you are dealing with a team that listens, is articulate, and can handle schedules effectively.