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No fluff, just well designed home extensions
Kirkwood is a family-run business with specialist experience in loft conversions and house extensions. As trusted Colchester architects, we provide upfront guidance on extension costs, recommend reliable local builders, and create high-quality architectural plans at a fair price. Want to know how much a house extension costs in Colchester? Our clear and practical approach helps keep your project affordable without compromising on quality. Looking for a reliable builder? Check out our advice guide.
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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.
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Couldn't ask for a better outcome and value for money.
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Kirkwood Articles: Extension Advice You Can Trust
Single story extensions in Colchester
Single storey extensions add valuable ground floor space by extending your home outward on one level. As experienced Colchester architects, Kirkwood offers expert architectural design and structural engineering services tailored to your needs. Our approach is all about making the most of your space while ensuring the new extension feels like a natural part of your existing home.
How long does a single story house extension take?
Most single storey extensions take around three to four months from the first survey to final sign-off. The construction itself often takes just a few weeks, though the full timeline can vary based on the size of the build, materials used, and whether planning permission is required. Before anything starts on site, our design team will give you a clear, realistic schedule based on your specific plans.
Side, rear & wrap-around extensions in Colchester
A single storey wrap-around extension creates valuable additional space, ideal for a growing family or changing lifestyle needs. Whether you’re planning an open-plan kitchen, a bright dining area, or a space to relax and entertain, our designs aim to bring your vision to life while enhancing natural light and the overall flow of your home.
How much does a single story extension in Colchester cost?
The cost of a single storey extension in Colchester can vary depending on the size, materials chosen, and any added features. Larger extensions or those using higher-end materials will naturally be more expensive. As a rough guide, prices usually start from around £2,000 per square metre, which covers the main structure but not final decorating or finishes. If the extension includes a new kitchen, that would be an additional cost on top of the base price. For a more accurate estimate based on your property and design, a full assessment is the best approach.
Rear Extensions: Connecting Home and Garden
A rear extension offers a smart way to add space by extending from the back of your home, creating a seamless link to your garden or patio. It’s ideal for improving the connection between indoor and outdoor areas while maximising natural light and open-plan living. As experienced Colchester architects, we design each extension to meet building regulations and elevate both the style and practicality of your home.
Get Planning Advice from Experienced Colchester Architects
If you’d like a free call with Colchester architects who understand the planning process from start to finish, get in touch today. Planning a loft conversion, a single storey extension, or deciding between a pitched or flat roof? We’ll guide you through every stage with clarity and confidence.
Colchester falls under Colchester City Council for planning applications. You can find more details about their planning policies, permitted development rules, and application process on their official website.
Explore more here about the pros and cons of pitched versus flat roof extensions and which option might suit your home best.
Get Planning Advice from Experienced Colchester Architects
If you’d like a free call with Brentwood architects who understand the planning process inside and out, get in touch today. If you’re considering a loft conversion, a modern single-storey extension, or deciding between a pitched roof or flat roof extension, we can guide you through every step.
Brentwood falls under Brentwood Borough Council for planning applications. Find out more about their planning policies, permitted development rules, and application process on their official website.
Learn more here about the benefits of pitched and flat roof extensions and which might be best for your home.
Loft conversions in Colchester
We’ve been designing loft conversions in Colchester for years, and if you didn’t already know, Colchester is not just full of great homes. It is the oldest recorded town in Britain, with Roman walls, a Norman castle, and a growing creative community. If you are looking for experienced Colchester architects, you are in the right place. We understand the local planning process and have a strong track record of getting loft conversions approved. Thinking about a dormer, hip to gable, or Velux conversion? We will help you make the most of your loft space.
Planning permission in Colchester
Planning permission in Colchester can feel like a maze, but expert guidance can make all the difference. With a clear understanding of Colchester City Council’s requirements, the process becomes much more straightforward. Some projects fall under permitted development, while others need a full planning application. Knowing what applies to your extension and avoiding unnecessary delays gives you the best chance of approval.
Get planning advice from experienced Colchester architects
If a free call with Colchester architects who understand the process inside and out sounds helpful, get in touch today. From loft conversions to modern single storey extensions, expert advice can make all the difference.
Permitted development in Colchester – Build without full planning permission
Many home extensions and loft conversions in Colchester fall under permitted development, so full planning permission is not always required. However, there are clear rules around size, height, and materials that must be followed to qualify. Even when a project meets the criteria for permitted development, an application still needs to be submitted to the council for approval. Colchester architects can review your property and offer clear guidance on the different types of house extensions that may be suitable.
Do You Need Planning Permission?
Permitted development allows certain home extensions and loft conversions to go ahead without full planning permission. Our architects assess whether your project in Colchester qualifies and guide you through any approvals required by the council. We make sure your plans meet local rules and advise you if a full planning application is needed.
Extension Plans in Colchester
Every house extension project in Colchester needs professional plans, even if it falls under permitted development. A well-prepared architectural design ensures compliance with building regulations, supports structural safety, and meets local planning requirements. Clear drawings also help your builder follow the design accurately and make the approval process more efficient.
Lawful Development Certificates
Even if planning permission isn’t needed, applying for a Lawful Development Certificate confirms that your extension meets permitted development rules. It provides peace of mind and protects you from potential issues later on. Our architects in Colchester can prepare and submit the application to the council, making sure everything is properly recorded.
Home Renovation Architects in Colchester
Renovating a property often goes alongside a house extension or garage conversion in Colchester. Many builders prefer to carry out both together to save time and minimise disruption. A well-planned renovation can completely transform the layout, making better use of existing space and improving how rooms connect. In some cases, a full extension is not needed—adjusting internal walls, adding light, and improving flow can make a huge difference. Colchester architects design renovations that improve space, functionality, and value, creating homes that truly fit the way people live.
Pitched Roof vs Flat Roof Extensions
Choosing between a pitched roof or flat roof extension is an important part of planning a home extension in Colchester. Both options can add space, improve energy efficiency, and change the look of the property. The right option depends on budget, preferred style, and how much maintenance you want in the long term. See our Pitched Roof vs Flat Roof Extension Guide for more detail.
Colchester Architects for Kitchen Extensions
A lot happens in the kitchen. From evening drinks with friends to family time around the dinner table, it’s the heart of the home. An open plan kitchen extension in Colchester can turn a cramped layout into a bright, welcoming space that works for real life. It becomes somewhere to cook, chat, help with homework, or simply relax. Rear and side kitchen extensions open up the back of the house, bringing in more light and making the space feel bigger and better connected. Colchester architects can help design a kitchen that’s not only practical but genuinely enjoyable to spend time in.
Open Up Your Kitchen with a Smart Single Storey Extension
A kitchen extension should work for the space and how you live day to day. It’s not just about adding more square footage, smart design choices like opening up walls, improving the layout, or adding skylights can make the kitchen feel bigger and brighter. Letting in more natural light, improving flow, and creating a well-connected space all help make the kitchen more enjoyable to use. Every design is carefully planned to suit the existing property, meet building regulations in Colchester, and deliver something that’s both practical and well put together.
Garage Conversions in Colchester – Turn Unused Space into Something Useful
Do You Need Planning Permission for a Garage Conversion?
Most garage conversions in Colchester do not require planning permission, but some properties have specific restrictions. If the garage was part of a new build condition or the home is in a conservation area, approval may still be needed. The team will assess the property and handle any required applications with Colchester City Council to keep the process straightforward.
Designing a Garage Conversion That Works for You
A well-designed garage conversion in Colchester should feel like part of the original home, not an obvious add-on. It could be a home office, playroom, or extra bedroom, the layout is planned to make the most of the space, bring in natural light, and function well day to day, all while connecting smoothly with the rest of the property.
Building Regulations and Structural Considerations
Even if planning permission is not needed, garage conversions in Colchester still have to meet building regulations. This includes standards for insulation, ventilation, fire safety, and overall structural integrity. A structural engineer in Colchester will assess any load-bearing walls, foundations, and required reinforcements to make sure the conversion is safe, secure, and built to last.
Ready to Start Your Home Extension in Colchester?
If you are planning a home extension in Colchester, Kirkwood can help. Our experienced team of Essex architects guides you through every stage, from architectural design to handling planning permission with Colchester City Council. From loft conversions and garage conversions to kitchen extensions, every design is created to maximise space, meet building regulations, and improve the way your home works.
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.
Colchester | Architectural Design & Planning
Serving Colchester & surrounding areas - CO1, CO2, CO3, CO4, CO5, CO6, CO7, CO11
Frequently asked questions
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Do I need planning permission for a house extension in Colchester?
Not all extensions require planning permission. Some fall under permitted development rights, allowing certain works without formal approval. However, factors like the size of the extension, its proximity to boundaries, and whether your property is in a conservation area can affect this. It's advisable to consult with Colchester City Council or a local architect to determine if your project needs permission.
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What's the difference between planning permission and building regulations?
Planning permission relates to the appearance and impact of your extension on the surrounding area, while building regulations ensure the construction meets safety and energy efficiency standards. Even if your extension doesn't need planning permission, it will likely require building regulation approval.
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How far can I extend my house without planning permission in Colchester?
Under permitted development rights, you can extend up to 3 meters for semi-detached or terraced houses and up to 4 meters for detached houses. However, these rights can be restricted in certain areas or for specific properties. Always check with the local authority before proceeding.
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Can Kirkwood recommend builders in Colchester?
Yes, once your plans are approved, we can connect you with trusted local builders we've worked with before, ensuring a smooth construction process.