SKYLARK
Contemporary full-width rear extension to terraced property, Berkshire
The owners of this end-of-terrace, three-bedroom property sought to maximise their permitted development rights by adding a new kitchen and dining area to the rear of their home, making the most of their limited garden space.
The primary challenge was to create a spacious living area without sacrificing the remaining outdoor space.
Our goal was to secure approval for an extension larger than what is typically accepted by planning regulations. While a smaller extension would have met the basic requirements, we aimed to deliver a beautiful, airy, and open kitchen and dining space that fully utilised the restricted rear garden, enhancing both the interior and the outdoor environment.
OUR
APPROACH
To achieve this, we designed a minimalist extension that spans the full width of the existing house, maximising the use of space.
Roof lights wrap around the design, flooding the main kitchen area with natural light and creating dynamic lighting effects throughout the day.
Large glazing overlooking the redesigned garden area creates a seamless indoor-outdoor connection, offering a unified and open living experience.
To bring our vision of a larger-than-usual contemporary extension to life, we utilised 'The Larger Home Extensions Neighbour Consultation Scheme'. This scheme allows extensions beyond typical Permitted Development Rights, provided a structured consultation with neighbours is carried out. By using this approach, we were able to secure approval for the larger extension, significantly enhancing the client’s living space.
PROJECT
GALLERY
DESIGN HIGHLIGHTS
Our project went beyond mere expansion; it aimed to breathe new life into the property's exterior, bringing it into the modern era.
"Tait Architects has worked with our ideas and produced an exciting design to remodel our tired 1970s home. It got through planning the first time, with hugely positive comments and praise from our neighbours. We are all excited to see what the finished product will look like. We cannot rate Tait Architects highly enough." - Client, upon reception of planning permission
We are thrilled to have received such positive feedback from our clients, who expressed their satisfaction with the initial design and again with the final result.
"We are really happy with how the house has finished up looking. All Tait Architects' suggestions were really effective: vertical timber cladding, the tall window into the porch, the outdoor storm porch, and the high window into the garage. We love it, and have had literally hundreds of positive comments from neighbours and passers-by. Thank you so much." - Client, upon project completion
We are also grateful for the commendation from the local planning department, affirming "the design and quality of the proposed development".
This feedback underscores the success of our project in revitalizing a tired 1970s home into a modern, aesthetically pleasing dwelling that brings joy to its owners and community alike.