Transform your home with a contemporary single storey extension
Looking to modernize your home and add more space? A Contemporary Single Storey Extensions could be the perfect solution. Learn more about our architectural design services.

- What is a Contemporary Single Storey Extension?
- Benefits of a Contemporary Single Storey Extension
- Key Design Features of Contemporary Extensions
- Want to find out design costs for your project?
- Costs of Contemporary Single Storey Extensions
- Piled foundations
- Why Choose Kirkwood for Your Extension?
- Don't take our word for it
- Areas We Cover in Essex
- Frequently Asked Question
- Ready to Start Your Contemporary Extension
What is a Contemporary Single Storey Extension?
Simple put, a Contemporary Single Story Extension is a way of making your home bigger with clean lines, minimalism and a focus on simplicity. Often incorporating modern materials and technology. Example: For a Kitchen Extension one could create a seamless indoor-outdoor floor finish or for an Open Plan Kitchen Diner, sleek cabinetry with integrated appliances for a minimalist look. Explore our expert single story extension services in Essex for more insight
Benefits of a Contemporary Single Storey Extension
Let in More Light
Floor-to-ceiling windows, bifold doors and skylights will flood your modern extension with natural day light.
Bring the Outdoors In
Connecting your indoor and outdoor space is great for entertaining or just relaxing in your garden while still being inside.
Energy Efficiency
With options such as triple-glazed windows, proper insulation and energy-efficient lighting your home will stay warm all winter.
Boost Your Property’s Value
A well-designed extension can increase your home’s value by up to 20%, making it a smart long-term investment.
Key Design Features of Contemporary Extensions
Open-Plan Living
Most contemporary extensions are designed to create an open plan living space that links together the kitchen, dining and living areas
Minimalism at Its Best
There are many ways you can finish the extension to give that contemporary feel. Paint colour and a modern kitchen from our trade account at Howdens.
Unique Roof Designs
While many people go for a flat roof you can also add a pitched roof with skylights or a roof lantern to bring even more light into your space
Smart Home Features
If you want to take things up a notch consider adding some smart home technology like automated lights, blinds and built in sound systems.
Costs of Contemporary Single Storey Extensions in Essex
The cost of your extension depends on its size and design complexity. Modern Kitchens are also a big expense. That is why were partnered up with Howdens. They provide our customers with discounts and free 3d kitchen designs, you don’t get that from your average Essex architects.
Looking for expert home extension design in your area? Explore the Areas We Cover to see where we provide architectural services across Essex.
- Small Extension(20m2) £30,000+
- Medium Extension (30m2) £45,000+
- Large Extension (50m2) £60,000+
We offer free house extension build cost estimates so you know what to budget for before you get started. Avoid unforeseen build costs with smart planning and experienced local architects in Essex.
Piled foundations for single story extensions?
Piled foundations will increase your Modern Home Extension Build Costs by around 5-10%. Piled foundations are common so finding out if your house is piled would be helpful for budgeting the build costs. If you need help our structural engineers can advise and also provide guide costs for free.
Why Choose Kirkwood for Your Extension?
When it comes to home extensions in Essex, Kirkwood has over 30 years of experience helping homeowners transform their family living space. We take care of the entire process, from architectural design to planning permission and then helping you find reliable builders.
Our Essential Home Extension Design Package includes everything you need to get started:
Architectural plans
Structural-engineering
Planning permission management
Free build cost estimates
We work closely with trusted local builders to ensure that your extension is built to the highest standards.
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Where would you like to extend?

Detached

Semi Detached

Terrace

Bungalow
frequently asked question
Most extensions take between 3-6 months to complete. This depends on the complexity of the design and whether you need planning permission. We will work with youand make sure everything runs smoothly.
Many single-storey extensions are covered under permitted development rights which means you may not need planning permission. But it depends on the size and location. At Kirkwood, we take care of the planning permission process for you, so you do not have to worry.
A contemporary extension focuses on modern design – open spaces, modern doors, and lots of natural light. Traditional extensions tend to blend more with the existing architectureusing materials and finishes that match the original look of the house.
To make your extension more energy-efficientconsider installing triple-glazed windows, high-quality insulation and a smart heating systems. We can recommend the best options to help you save on energy bills.
A contemporary extension can add up to 20% to the value of your home particularly in popular areas like Chelmsford and Brentwood. It is a great way to increase both your living space and your property’s market value.