London Side Return Extension
Shape Architecture carries out many side infill extension projects throughout London. Side infill or side return extensions are a very efficient way to extend a home. They utilise poor quality external space that tends to be underused. They replace small rooms with little or no connection with the garden beyond. The result is an extended light filled and contemporary kitchen dining space with a far improved visual and physical connection with the garden. The house has been transformed.
London Side Infill Extension Design
The design of a side return extension will provide opportunity to flood the interior with natural light. It will create a rational geometry to the floor plan that is more extensive and easier to plan out. Often allowing the incorporation of a utility room and further storage. Interesting connections can be created between this space and the front reception room. Simple and elegant detailing and specification of material will create an elegant and transformed space.
Side Return Roof Finish
A significant element of the side return is the design and material finish of the roof which often centres around the use of rooflights. We have designed a variety ranging from green sedum roofs to fully glazed roofs. Rooflights set within a green sedum roof always look impressive given the contrast in material. Fully glazed roofs clearly flood the interior with light and create a sense of space and openness. One side return extension project kept a passage and this allowed large glazed panel to be incorporated that connected to a rooflight with a frameless glass to glass detail. This has become a feature of the space
Side Return Extension Design Process
As with all extension projects the design process is key. We make 3D computer models for all our projects to ensure we communicate clearly with our clients. The models are very useful in describing a space and in particular how roof lights and glazed doors can maximise the amount of daylight into the interior and the impact of views out.
Extension Architects
If you have a side extension in mind we would be happy to visit to discuss the design potential and the nature of the process with you.
