We have a fantastic track record for getting applications approved - 95% to be exact. Every now and then, the council will be on the fence about a scheme which may result in a rejected application. Lots of our clients actually want to submit a...
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We often have clients who want to start the build as soon as possible. Whether you’re counting down the days to a due date, or perhaps you want to finish your kitchen in time for Christmas, or you might be renting another property until the...
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There are lots of components to any Build, regardless of the size of the project. Build schedules will vary and are mostly dependent on the size and specification. A typical ground floor extension will take 12 to 16 weeks, but that is assuming that everything...
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Existing & Proposed Design Extensions are a fantastic opportunity to add lots of contemporary, functional features to your home such as bi-fold doors and Velux windows. These features have been developed with practicality in mind and they do a fantastic job at letting lots of natural...
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In a city where space is so valuable, it isn’t surprising that extending is becoming a popular alternative to moving. You wouldn’t believe the amount of space you can add to your home through extensions – and digging down to create a useable basement or...
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Whether you intend to go large and invest in a lower ground floor, or keep it simple and go for a cellar conversion; there are loads of ways you can use this underground space. We thought we would share just some of the ideas and...
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Building an extension doesn’t have to be as expensive as you might think – it’s all about prioritisation and figuring out if you want to spend a little more on certain aspects. We would recommend investing a little more in your kitchen, as this is...
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We find that our clients choose to extend for many different reasons - some want a dining area, others want more natural light; flats usually want an extra bedroom. One of the most common reasons is the growing demand for a larger kitchen and it’s...
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Your boundary wall height will affect your roof design, as lower boundary walls prefer a pitched roof to make the design practical. Higher boundary walls offer you more flexibility, as you’re free to choose from either a pitched or flat roof design. Making a decision on...
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Ceiling height was the hot topic of discussion at our most recent House Tour, and it’s certainly something we spend lots of time on during the Design Phase. There are loads of questions to answer on this topic, so we thought we’re run through the...
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Having a WC on your ground floor is not only convenient, but it can increase your property value by about £10,000. One question that our clients frequently ask is how they can incorporate a WC into their design, without detracting from the extended space. The...
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There are lots of components to any Build, regardless of the size of the project. Our clients frequently ask us what they need to consider prior to starting works, and the main things to tick off your list are Planning Permission, Party Wall Agreements, your...
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Have you ever wondered how an architect would design their house? Our Design Team work so hard at creating our clients visions; we thought we would ask some of the team to design their perfect extension. We chose the existing floorplan and specification that we use...
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Storage is often overlooked as it’s not something which is particularly exciting during the Design process. While it’s not that exciting, it is extremely practical and deserves some thought when you’re thinking about the layout of your room. You have lots of options when it comes...
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We understand that both the Design and Build are, generally speaking, new to you. We are here to guide you through the Design Phase, and do the heavy lifting in the Build – we understand that we are in your home, and you want to...
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We understand that the Build can be a stressful time for homeowners and we make every effort to make the process as smooth and as efficient as possible. For this reason, we offer our Build clients the option of living in during the build....
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Add Space and Value There are endless benefits to extending your home, and the immediate ones that come to mind tend to be visual; you’ll have more light, you can design your kitchen around you and your family, you can create more efficient functionality in your...
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One of the advantages of carrying out an extension are the choices you have at your disposal – you can completely tailor your design to your taste and budget. Just because you go for a low cost option doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your...
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Your garden has a huge impact on your kitchen as it can influence the level of natural light and ambience within the room. A kitchen extension is usually quite a drastic redesign of the rear of the property, and can cause quite an upheaval to...
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There are lots of components to a Build project, regardless of the size of the project. One fundamental part of the Build process is ensuring that both the home and building site are kept safe and secure at all times, and we take every precaution...
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The kitchen is the focal point of your home and is often the only room which is consistently used by the entire family. It’s such an integral part of the home, it’s important to put functionality at the forefront of your specification. The layout options...
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When you’re designing your Extension, it’s important to think about what you want to gain from the space. This will vary depending on your day to day lifestyle; however one factor that repeatedly arises with all of our clients is Light. When we say light,...
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Open plan living has become popular in modern day living, particularly in homes where space is valuable. If you’re thinking about extending your kitchen, open plan living is an ideal choice because you’re likely to be left with a very generous finished room size. This...
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Summer is in the air! The sun is shining and the BBQ’s are being dusted off – so what better time to think about making the most out of your garden and kitchen? When designing an extension, we always encourage our clients to think about...
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There are two important design considerations that we encourage all of our clients to think about during the Design Process. The first is the obvious one; the ‘shell’, which is anything to do with the structure of the extension (ie. windows / doors / chimney...
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A common question we are asked is whether doing both a ground floor extension and a loft conversion together causes havoc during the Build process. The simple answer is absolutely not – and there are lots of options which we can offer to suit your...
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When we begin the Design Phase with our clients, there are all kinds of requests made in respect to the Design. No two designs are the same, and they all vary to fit in with the day to day lifestyles of the homeowner. There does...
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Our Design Team have recently obtained planning permission for a fantastic, three story extension in a conservation area in Lambeth. The additional space will add a massive 60SQ to the home, and will completely transform the property....
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When you are designing your extension, it is important that you find a design that is perfect for you, but that also satisfies your local council’s guidelines and neighbouring properties....
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There are several types of application that you can submit to your local council. Our Design Team have tons of experience in submitting planning applications, and they’ll be able to best advise which is most appropriate for your scheme. Depending on the size and character of...
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For most of us, Design is at the forefront of our minds and we initially think about how something is going to look, and we forget about functionality. Underfloor heating is, in particular, important to think about early on because it effectiveness can vary depending...
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f you are building within three meters of a public sewer, then you will need to let Thames Water know and seek their approval for the proposed works. This is something we can absolutely help with, and we can ensure all of the correct information...
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If you’re thinking about extending, you should think about how you want your new space to interact with your existing property....
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hen it comes to designing your home extension, your local council will influence your design as they do have the final say on whether it’s allowed. For this reason, it is certainly useful to have someone who knows what those guidelines are....
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The traditional ‘garage’ seems to be going out of fashion, as homeowners are realising the potential of what might otherwise be used as dead space. A typical garage spans 3 x 6 metres, which is a huge area, especially when you consider how the space...
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Our Design Team have been busy since the beginning of the year with a record breaking number of instructions in both January and February. We encourage all clients, prospective and current; to give us feedback throughout the Design Phase so we can ensure we are doing...
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The reason for extending is usually quite simple; you want more space in your home. While reasons for the additional space vary massively, we do find that lots of our clients want to accommodate their growing families....
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Glass and glazing not only looks fantastic, but it also comes with lots of practicalities. Large glass doors and windows encourage natural light to enter your home which can drastically transform a living space....
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Depending on your design options and personal preference, you might need to find a way to get natural light through to the room that sits behind your kitchen....
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When designing your extension, it is important to remember that just because it’s internal; it doesn’t mean you can do what you want. Local planning guidelines can influence a design, and our job is to help navigate the regulations to help you achieve a design...
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2015 has been a very exciting year for Build Team. From exciting new projects, to new team members, we are so proud of our achievements throughout the year that we thought we should share a lookback with you… We started of the year with was a...
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Light can make or break a room and it’s really important to find the right balance between natural and artificial light. The best way to do this is to really understand what light you are going to gain from your chosen design. Lots of our...
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Amendments that fall within a certain criteria can be made to your property under Permitted Development; this means you don’t need to apply for full planning permission. While Permitted Development (PD) can be applied to most properties, it does not apply to flats, maisonettes or...
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Don’t underestimate the impact that light will have on your room! Lighting can totally transform a space and can affect stuff you wouldn’t even dream of like temperature and sound. When designing any space, you need to create a balance between artificial light and natural light....
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Loft conversions are a great way to add space to your property and make the most of the space you have available. The most common design option is to add a bedroom and a bathroom. Adding a bedroom can add 9 to 10 per cent...
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Here at Build Team, we offer a two-stage process. The first stage is the Design Phase and the second is the Build Phase. For those of you who have plans drawn up and planning permission approved, we do offer a Build Only service too, if...
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You shouldn’t underestimate the impact your outdoor space will have on your new indoor space, particularly if you are opting for lots of glass and bi-fold doors. Many of our clients choose to redesign their garden while they are redesigning their kitchen extension, mostly because...
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For many of you, having the opportunity to design an extension will be the first time you are offered the opportunity to design a living space exactly around you and your lifestyle. The layout of your extension is completely yours to design and should be suited...
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When designing your kitchen extension, you should ask yourself this question: How do I want the space to look when it’s finished? The answer to this question requires some thought about your interior design. Many people associate ‘interior design’ with a bit of paint or some...
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Party Wall Consent is a legal requirement that has been in place since 1996.This law was designed to regulate building works whilst also protecting adjoining owners and occupiers during building projects. It is a separate requirement to Planning Permission and one does not have an...
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An open plan design is a great way to create a large multi-functional space and it’s an obvious favourite for our past and current clients. Not only does this design option utilise all of the space available, but it also encourages the flow of natural...
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We are frequently approached by prospective clients who query whether living in a conservation area will affect their planning application. The short answer is yes it does (a bit). All planning applications have to be submitted with restrictions in mind and being in a conservation...
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When designing your extension, you need to consider how to shape your new space. The two most popular kitchen extension roof types are pitched or flat and each one offers different advantageous qualities. The type of roof also guides your options on what kind of windows you can...
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Exposed brick is a rising star among interior decoration – with our last two builds, and an on-going build incorporating it into their design. When designing your kitchen extension, it is key to consider your interior space and what look you want to create. What is...
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Adding a utility space is a great way to abolish clutter and unsightly items from your living space. It’s also a fantastic solution as it makes use of the space towards the back of the kitchen area that usually struggles to find a strong source...
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The kitchen is often considered to be the heart of the home, particularly in open plan living. In a space that’s used both to prepare food as well as socialise, the design of your kitchen extension is an important aspect to consider. Kitchens should be...
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A loft conversion is a brilliant way to both increase the space available in your home and the value of your property. When designing your loft conversion it is important to note that there are several different shapes and styles available, and it’s a good...
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We are often asked whether an extension is a worthwhile investment on a flat or on a home where the size of the extended space looks to be rather small in comparison to others. Regardless of the size of your home or the side return area,...
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The autumn season is upon us; leaves are falling and there’s a scattering of conkers along the pavements. Autumn is a great time to get those home maintenance jobs out of the way before the colder winter months. Just as regular household chores are necessary to...
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Taking the time to think about the design of your kitchen is key to creating a comfortable and efficient space for you and your family to enjoy. Usually placed at the heart of the extension, a kitchen island is an attractive feature, as well as...
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There are lots of different payment options when it comes to the design of your home extension. The majority of firms work on an either an hourly basis or they charge their services as a percentage of the overall construction cost. These methods can end up...
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A side return extension can be a fantastic way to reclaim the unused space at the side of your house. With space at a premium in London, adding any amount of space, large or small, will allow you to open up your kitchen and create an...
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There is a lot of confusion surrounding the mysterious and complex process that is Party Wall. Often clients are unsure or misunderstand what is expected of them with regards to notifying their neighbours of impending building work. We are frequently asked whether neighbours can actually...
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f you’re planning a home extension, it’s safe to say that space is at the forefront of your objective. It is important to seek professional advice from your designer and think carefully about your design to ensure that your new space meets your requirements and...
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Floor finishes are a massive eye catcher and can really impact the way a space looks and feels so it’s really important that you do your research here!...
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it possible to live in the property alongside building work without becoming stressed? Yes! While some homeowners prefer to move out during home renovations, there’s a growing trend for staying put. While we do recommend that you take the occasional break with a long weekend or...
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This project is a great example of a clever solution to overcome the Lambeth SPD policy on wraparound extensions....
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The summer season is still with us, but restaurants are already advertising Christmas bookings, and before you know it department stores will have isles dedicated to different coloured tinsel!...
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When thinking about light, it’s important to think about the best way to take advantage of natural light, but also the best way to use artificial light to complement your new space....
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Bi-fold doors are a very popular option with homeowners when carrying out a kitchen extension or a side return extension. These doors complement the open plan nature of the side return perfectly; they provide a seamless connection between the inside and outside spaces which appear to blend...
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The summer is finally upon us, but we would all probably admit to having a love-hate relationship with the weather at this time of the year. It’s brilliant when the sun is blazing and you can laze in the garden working on your tan, however it...
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This is a question we are frequently asked by prospective clients, and our answer is always the same; the cost is dependent on the size and the design of the scheme. The final cost of each side return extension will differ as the designs are...
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There are several ways in which the space created through a loft conversion can be used, for example as an additional bedroom, bathroom, study or playroom. We have found that the two most popular uses are as a bathroom or bedroom, which is understandable as...
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We are regularly contacted by prospective clients who are looking to purchase a property that has the potential for an extension. Whether you are a first time buyer or a current homeowner; it is beneficial to discuss the feasibility of an extension prior to committing...
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Living space in London is fast becoming harder to find and afford. This has led to an increase in homeowners opting to extend their homes outwards and upwards to make the most out of the space they have available....
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Financial concerns are contributing towards a rising new trend - ‘don’t move - improve!’ More and more of us are opting to stay put which means our focus can become transforming our current properties into our dream homes. Interior decorating and minor home renovations can...
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Although WC and utility spaces are not areas many of us really put much thought into when initially considering an extension, we have noticed that 80% of our side return extension designs include a WC or utility space. As small and insignificant as these spaces...
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When carrying out a side return extension, it is a good idea to have your garden redesigned to ensure it complements the new space. The garden area can really impact the feel and look of your extension, and can even impact the amount of light...
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Before embarking on a Side Return Extension, a number of clients have questions regarding the security of their home while the works are being carried out, especially in cases where homeowners move out for the duration of the project. We felt it important to address this...
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A cellar conversion is one way to make use of a redundant space you may have available; turning it into something which can be useful and improve the practicality of your home....
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We are often asked by prospective clients whether it is worth carrying out a loft conversion and a side return extension. Both are worth considering if you want to increase the size of your home, as they make use of space which is usually left...
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A question we are frequently asked by clients is whether they can build their side return extension under Permitted Development, rather than submitting a full Planning Application....
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One of the most common questions we are asked by clients asked during an initial site visit is how long will the build take. This is an important question for most clients, especially those with a tight deadline. A typical side return build takes 12 weeks....
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During the Design stage, clients are likely to benefit in regards to planning and party wall matters. Clients can benefit from a joint planning application, and many London boroughs are more willing to be slightly more flexible with the wall height astride the boundary....
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Here are 5 ways to survive building works at home, and ensure everything goes smoothly....
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How many access points does my side return extension need? Find out more in our helpful blog post....
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When planning the kitchen for your Side Return Extension one consideration is which worktop to specify. What constitutes the ‘best’ in kitchen worktops is relative and is often a question many of our clients ask....
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When it comes to choosing the doors for your side return extension, here at Build Team we've found that bi-fold doors are generally the most popular option. However, it's well worth taking a look at the alternatives so that you can weigh up your options...
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Once you decide to undertake a side return extension project, one of the factors you will need to consider is whether any of the building work is being carried out near to a sewer. If you are planning to build over or close to a...
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A common question we are asked is whether being in a conversation area will prohibit the design and build of a property. A conservation area exists to protect the special architectural and historic interest of a place. ...
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When it comes to choosing the material for the floor of your side return extension, there are many factors you should take into consideration....
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A great way to increase space and add value to your home is to build up with a loft conversion or outwards with a side return....
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If you’re thinking about doing a side return or kitchen extension, it’s well worth considering redesigning your garden to compliment your new build. Your outdoor area has a substantial impact on the indoors, affecting the lighting, colour and the overall atmosphere of a property....
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London residents seem to have a constant battle with space, whether it’s indoor or outdoor. Adding an extension is a brilliant way to add space and value to your home and, contrary to popular belief; extending out doesn’t have to reduce your from your outdoor...
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Once you have made the decision to build a side return extension, it’s important to think about the layout of your kitchen. Modern kitchens are now the heart of the home, and are no longer just used for food preparation, but also for eating, entertaining...
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An increasing number of modern families are using their kitchens as living spaces, rather than just places to cook, which is why side return extensions are growing in popularity. But where do you live and cook while the building work is being carried out?...
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Adding a side return extension to your home can bring huge benefits to your property. Not only will it add extra space, but it can help to bring in more light and even add value to your home....
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Many of our clients ask us how we can construct a side return extension and still keep the character of their Victorian house. This project in Chiswick is a good example. We incorporated a Victorian style bay window with doors leading out to the back...
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There has never been a better time to convert a loft space and build a Side Return Extension at the same time. At Build Team, we routinely get asked to undertake Loft Conversions as part of a client’s Side Return plans. Our clients are typically...
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Do you have a drink problem? Sorry, let me rephrase that. Do you have a problem where to store your wine collection due to a lack of space in the house? ...
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There are a number of good reasons to collaborate with your neighbour when it comes to the Design and Build of a Side Return Extension and at Build Team we have developed a specialist knowledge base on how best to approach these projects....
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Sometimes you don’t need to add a large space to create a big impact on the layout of your home. A modest but well-designed extension can be transformative, changing the aspect of a room, bringing in valuable extra daylight, linking two existing spaces, or improving circulation...
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Estate Agents get all excited about storage space when showing prospective clients around a house. In their opinion, you can never have too much storage space. Are you drowning in clutter? Beginning to think that maybe they've got a point? Here are a few ideas...
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Following on from our recent blog post, Side Return Extensions for Flats, we have received many enquiries. Many of you want to know how to go about getting your Landlord's consent. Whilst we can't promise you will get the answer you want, here are some...
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For most clients with a flat the primary reason for building a Side Return Extension is to convert their one bed into a two bed. Whether you need more space but can't afford to move, or want to sell your flat on, it makes sense...
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One question we are frequently asked is “Can we still live in the house while the works are carried out?”. The answer simply put is ' Yes' . Read more to see if this might work for you....
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When designing your new side return extension, give some thought to heating and privacy. There are many options for both issues - here are some: HEATING To keep the new extra space nice and snug, you will need to add additional heating to that area. Yes you...
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Neighbours can be tricky, especially if you’re trying to make some home improvements. Whether they have had some bad experiences before or have heard horror stories from friends there are ways around this. At Build Team we try and minimise the effect building your side-return will have...
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Advances in Technology have not all just been about mobiles, televisions, cars and computers. Now it’s the turn of kitchen equipment, or more specifically the tap. In its simplest form the boiling water tap can simply be a useful addition to your existing kitchen sink...
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