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Design of domestic extensions

Whether your proposed extension is at the front rear or side, it should be designed to be visually integrated with the existing building, to be sympathetic to its surrounding and to the amenities of adjacent properties. An extension which greatly alters the shape of a house needs to be considered very carefully indeed. For most situations the overall aim of the design should be to allow the house to maintain its original appearance and predominance over an extension. In other words, the extension should be subordinate to the main house.

Roof styles

Roof Styles are a vital element to any extension and the Planning Authority would normally expect a design which matches that of the main property or which could be successfully integrated without detracting from the overall appearance of the dwelling. Flat roof extensions - popular some years ago - will now normally be resisted.

Windows and roof lines should all be in proportion - Extension in Horsham

Windows

Window size and position is an important ingredient of any design and new windows should be of matching scale, style and proportion to the originals. Side windows are discouraged because of the possibility of overlooking of neighbouring properties. In some instances however this may be overcome by obscure glazing and high level non-openable windows. Dormer windows need to be in proportion with the existing windows. They should also not dominate the roofline but compliment it.

Materials

Materials should normally match those of the existing building to ensure that there is no discord. It will rarely be permissible to create a 'contrast' by using materials which do not match the existing building. In most cases where permission is granted it will be on condition that materials match the existing, and in some cases samples of the materials to be used will be required before building starts. Where a property is fairly new it is generally a straightforward matter to obtain matching bricks, tiles etc. Older properties can be more challenging but not impossible.

Garages and Carports

Wherever possible, garages and carports should be set in an inconspicuous position such as back behind the front building line to avoid predominance in the street scene. If this is not possible then creative measures may have to be taken in order that the development does not dominate the property. Good quality design and materials are always advocated to maintain the appearance and value of your property.

It is unlikely that consent will be granted for a garage or carport that does not allow a vehicle to stop clear of the highway. For this reason it is usual for garages and carports fronting roads and footpaths to be set back at least 6 metres. Where no vehicular access exists at present or where existing facilities are considered to be inadequate, improvements to the width of access, turning area available and visibility at the point of access will need to form part of the proposal.