Southend-on-Sea Architects.
Essex's No.1
Southend-on-Sea's #1
architectural design firm
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A secure and dependable company you can trust
A hassle-free service, packaged just for you
No matter where you are in Essex, we’re ready to assist
Precision-driven architectural design that delivers.
With 5,000+ projects to our name
No fluff, just well designed home extensions
Kirkwood is a family-run company with expert knowledge in house extensions, loft conversions, and architectural design in Southend-on-Sea. As trusted Southend-on-Sea architects, we provide upfront guidance on build costs, connect you with top-quality builders, and deliver high-quality designs at an affordable price. Discover how much a house extension costs in Southend-on-Sea. Our unique approach keeps costs down without cutting corners, ensuring every project meets building regulations in Southend-on-Sea, setting you up for a stress free house extension journey.
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Google Reviews
Based in Brentwood, Essex, we were also introduced to builders and tradespeople through Kirkwood, and they were excellent—professional, respectful, and a pleasure to work with. If we ever take on another project, we wouldn’t hesitate to use them again.
We now have an amazing extension, and would be happy to use the team again.
Very knowledgeable and contactable throughout the process.
Couldn't ask for a better outcome and value for money.
Will definitely be recommending and 100% will use again!
5 star!!!
Kirkwood Articles: Expert Home Extension & Renovation Insights
Single story extensions in Southend-on-Sea
Single storey extensions are an effective way to add extra space to your home without breaking the bank. As trusted Southend-on-Sea architects, Kirkwood delivers expert architectural design and structural engineering services tailored to your project and budget. Our process is focused on maximising space while ensuring that your new extension doesn’t cost an arm and a leg, all while keeping the local building regulation authorities happy.
How long does a single storey house extension in Southend-on-Sea take?
Typically, a single storey extension in Southend-on-Sea takes about three to four months from the initial survey to project completion. While the actual construction usually lasts three to four weeks, the overall timeline can vary based on the extension’s size, the materials used, and planning permission requirements. Our experienced design team will provide a clear, tailored schedule to meet your project’s specific needs.
Side, rear & wrap-around extensions in Southend-on-Sea
A single storey wrap-around extension offers valuable extra space, ideal for a growing family or evolving lifestyle. If you envision a spacious open-plan layout and have the rear and side space available, opting for a wrap-around extension could completely transform your home. By adding a stylish dining area or a dedicated space for entertainment, this new space can add value to your property, turning your build cost into increased equity. As highly experienced Southend-on-Sea architects, we focus on enhancing natural light and improving the overall flow of your home, all while keeping the design aligned with your build budget.
How much does a single story extension in Southend-on-Sea cost?
The cost of a single storey extension in Southend-on-Sea depends on several factors, including size, materials, and additional features. Larger extensions with premium materials will naturally be more expensive. As a general guide, prices typically start at around £2,000 per square metre, covering the main structure but excluding final decorating and finishes. If a new kitchen is included, that would be an extra cost on top of the base price. For an accurate estimate tailored to your home and design, a detailed assessment is recommended.
Rear Extensions: Enhancing Your Home with Outdoor Living
A rear extension in Southend is the most popular choice among house extension plans submitted for approval. Due to the typical layout of properties, extending out the back often makes the most sense from a design perspective. Since kitchens are usually located at the rear of the property, this area is a prime candidate for improvement and expansion. Planning permission in Southend-on-Sea is a vital step for all house extension projects, and as professional Southend-on-Sea architects, we work closely with Southend-on-Sea City Council to secure the necessary approvals. Get in touch, and we’ll explain why a rear extension could be the perfect solution for your home.
Get Planning Advice from Experienced Southend-on-Sea Architects
Using an Essex architect with vast experience working with Southend-on-Sea City Council for house extensions, loft conversions, and garage conversions can make all the difference in securing the approval you need. If you’d like a free call with Southend-on-Sea architects who truly understand the planning process, get in touch today. If you’re considering a dormer loft conversion, a modern single-storey extension, or need guidance on choosing between a pitched roof or flat roof extension, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Southend-on-Sea falls under Southend-on-Sea City Council for planning applications. Learn more about their planning policies, permitted development rules, and application process on their official website.
Loft conversions in Southend-on-Sea
We’ve been designing loft conversions in Southend-on-Sea for years, and if you didn’t already know, Southend-on-Sea isn’t just celebrated for its stunning seafront—it also boasts a rich maritime history and vibrant cultural scene. If you’re looking for experienced Southend-on-Sea architects, you’re in the right place. We understand the local planning process inside and out and have a proven track record of getting loft conversions approved. We can advise on dormer, hip-to-gable loft extensions, or affordable roof light loft conversions. Our loft conversion plans help you see your home’s potential while providing accurate loft conversion build cost estimates.
Planning permission in Leigh-on-Sea
Planning permission in Southend-on-Sea can feel like a maze, but expert guidance makes all the difference. With a deep understanding of Southend-on-Sea City Council’s expectations, the process becomes much smoother. If your project qualifies under permitted development or requires a full planning application, knowing the rules and avoiding unnecessary delays gives you the best chance of approval.
Get planning advice from experienced Southend-on-Sea architects
For us, we understand that the first step for homeowners in Southend is free advice, especially regarding design and build costs, as these factors can determine whether a house extension moves forward. Get planning advice from experienced Southend-on-Sea architects. A free call with our team, who truly understand the planning process, can be invaluable. If that sounds helpful, get in touch today. We can advise on everything from house extensions and loft conversions to structural engineering, PD rights, outbuildings, and Southend-on-Sea building regulations.
Permitted development in Southend-on-Sea– Build without full planning permission
Many house extensions and loft conversions in Southend-on-Sea fall under permitted development, meaning full planning permission isn’t always required. However, strict guidelines on size, height, and materials must be met for a project to qualify. Even when a project adheres to permitted development criteria, an application still needs to be submitted to the council for approval. Experienced Southend-on-Sea architects can assess your property, guide you through local building regulations, and provide advice on the different types of house extensions available. Permitted development in Essex is not as straightforward as one might think – detailed plans and careful research are essential to ensure the project can be legally built.
Do You Need Planning Permission?
Permitted development can allow certain home extensions and loft conversions to proceed without full planning permission, though specific restrictions still apply. Essex architects evaluate your project against these criteria and manage the required approvals through Southend-on-Sea City Council.
Extension Plans in Southend-on-Sea
Every extension requires professional plans, even under permitted development guidelines. Detailed architectural drawings are crucial to ensuring compliance with Southend-on-Sea building regulations, maintaining structural integrity, and meeting local authority standards. Essex architects in Southend-on-Sea deliver home extension plans that provide clear instructions for builders and help streamline the approval process.
Lawful Development Certificates
Even if an extension doesn't require full planning permission, a Lawful Development Certificate verifies that it complies with permitted development rules. This certificate provides peace of mind and helps avoid future legal complications. Essex architects in Southend-on-Sea can prepare and submit the necessary application to Southend-on-Sea City Council, ensuring that every detail is officially documented.
Home Renovation Architects in Southend-on-sea
Renovating a property often goes hand in hand with a house extension or garage conversion. Rather than tackling one project at a time, many builders prefer to combine renovation and extension work, making the process more efficient and reducing overall disruption. A well planned renovation can make a huge difference to a home’s layout, making better use of existing space and improving the connection between rooms. In many cases, a full extension isn’t necessary to achieve a more open, spacious feel, a simple reconfiguration of internal walls, an increase in natural light, and improved flow can make all the difference. Southend-on-Sea architects specialise in designing renovations that enhance space, functionality, and value, ensuring your home perfectly suits your lifestyle.
Pitched Roof vs Flat Roof Extensions
When planning to extend a home in Southend-on-Sea, choosing between a pitched roof or flat roof extension is an important decision. Both options can enhance your property’s appearance, boost energy efficiency, and add valuable extra space. The ideal choice depends on factors such as your budget, preferred style, and long-term maintenance needs. For more details on the benefits of each option, see our Pitched Roof vs Flat Roof Extension Guide.
Southend Architects for Kitchen Extensions
A kitchen extension, when designed well, changes people’s lives, making time at home more enjoyable. A well designed and spacious kitchen transforms the energy of the entire house, something that often gets overlooked by many architects. Feng Shui, as they call it in China, is a real thing; we have experienced the change first hand many times by seeing and feeling the project before and after its transformation. Our clients all say the same thing: a kitchen extension done right creates a more supportive and positive environment for the family to grow in. As experienced Southend-on-Sea architects, we combine innovative architectural design in Southend-on-Sea with tailored home extension plans that meet the approval of Southend planning application authorities.
A Single Story Kitchen Extension That You Love
Usually our first design hits the spot, but if it doesn’t, our Southend on Sea architects will arrange a meeting to review the initial draft and make the necessary amendments until you love the final design.
Garage Conversions in Southend – Make the Most of Unused Space
Do You Need Planning Permission for a Garage Conversion?
Most garage conversions in Southend-on-Sea don’t require planning permission, but certain properties may have restrictions. If the garage was built as part of a new-build condition or the property is in a conservation area, approval might be needed. Our Southend-on-Sea architects will assess your property and manage any necessary applications with Southend-on-Sea City Council, ensuring a smooth process while meeting all local building regulations and permitted development guidelines.
Designing a Garage Conversion That Works for You
A well-designed garage conversion in Southend-on-Sea should blend seamlessly with your existing home, not look like an add-on. It can serve as a home office, playroom, or extra bedroom, with a layout planned to maximise space, natural light, and functionality while connecting smoothly with surrounding rooms. Southend on Sea architects ensure every conversion meets building regulations and enhances your home's overall appeal.
Building Regulations and Structural Considerations
Even when planning permission isn’t required, garage conversions in Southend-on-Sea must comply with building regulations. Everything from insulation and ventilation to structural safety and fire protection must meet the required standards. Structural engineering assessments ensure that load-bearing walls, foundations, and any necessary reinforcements are in place, creating a safe and durable conversion. Southend-on-Sea architects ensure that every detail complies with local regulations, resulting in a long-lasting and secure addition to your home.
Ready to Start Your Home Extension in Southend-on-Sea?
If you’re planning a home extension in Southend-on-Sea, Kirkwood is here to help. Our experienced team guides you through every stage, from architectural design to securing planning permission with Southend-on-Sea City Council. Loft conversions, garage conversions, and kitchen extensions are all designed to maximise space, comply with building regulations, and enhance your home.
Get in touch by emailing info@kirkwoodbuild.co.uk or phoning 01268 944233 to schedule a free consultation. Let’s turn your ideas into a well-designed, approved, and beautifully planned extension.