Planning a House Extension in South West London? Start Here
Dario
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If you are planning a house extension in South West London, you are not alone — and you are not short on options either.
From classic Victorian terraces in Clapham to riverside townhouses in Putney, extensions have become the go-to upgrade for homeowners who want more space without leaving the location they love.
But before you start imagining skylights and seamless garden doors, there are a few things worth getting clear on. This blog will walk you through the most important planning and design steps to get your extension right from day one.
🛠️ Do You Need Planning Permission?
The first question we hear from most homeowners is: “Do I need planning permission for my extension?”
The answer depends on several factors:
- Your home’s location (e.g. conservation area or not)
- The size and type of extension (rear, side, loft, basement)
- Height, materials, and proximity to boundaries
- Whether your home is listed or part of a terrace
In many cases, modest extensions can fall under Permitted Development — but it is always best to check with your local council or a planning consultant early on.
Tip: We often work with trusted local architects who can advise on planning before design even begins.
📐 What Makes a Smart Layout?
A well-designed extension should improve the flow and function of your home — not just add square metres.
Ask yourself:
- Do you want open plan living or distinct zones?
- Where will natural light enter the space?
- How will you transition between old and new?
- Will the extension connect to your garden or outdoor space?
The best layouts are often shaped by both your lifestyle and your home’s existing structure. That is why we always recommend starting with your priorities — not Pinterest.
🧱 Choosing the Right Materials and Finishes
Extensions are long-term investments, and your material choices should reflect that. In South West London, we often work with:
- Brick matching for seamless street-facing extensions
- Limestone flooring for indoor-outdoor continuity
- Steel-framed doors for a contemporary rear aesthetic
- Insulated roofing with hidden skylights or solar panels
Every finish is only as good as the detail behind it. From foundations to final touches, quality control is everything.
💬 Working with a Contractor: What to Expect
A good construction partner will help you:
- Understand your options (and their impact on budget or timeline)
- Work alongside your architect with transparency and calm
- Avoid common site mistakes that delay delivery
- Keep your home respected during the build
We have written more about this in our previous blog on Luxury Home Extensions in South West London. It covers how we work, what makes a build truly high-end, and why homeowners trust us.
✅ Final Checklist Before You Start
- You have an idea of your ideal layout and style
- You have spoken to a planning consultant or architect
- You have defined your budget range
- You have found a contractor who will respect your design and space
- You know what success looks like — and what to avoid
Still early in the process?
Download our free homeowner guide: Bespoke Made Simple
Let’s Talk
We specialise in house extensions across South West London — from full-width kitchen expansions to lofts, basements, and bespoke interior fit-outs.
If you want to bring clarity and care to your next project, we would love to talk.
📍 Based in London
🔧 Focused on quality construction and finish
💬 Consultations available for homeowners and architects
