Single story extension ideas: Expert guide to planning, design & costs

If you’re looking for single storey extension ideas to boost value, increase comfort, and add to the space of your home, the good news is that the market is full of great options.

Whether you want a home office with more natural light, a modern kitchen diner or somewhere to doze off to daytime TV, you can choose from traditional brick builds orangeries to contemporary glass-wrapped spaces and everything in between – it’s well reading on to learn about garden rooms!

At Lifestyle Windows, we specialise in designing and installing bespoke single storey extensions across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire. With over 30 years of experience, our family-run team can guide you through the planning process, extension design ideas, and practical considerations to ensure your project is smooth, stress-free and tailored to your needs.

In this blog we’ll explore some of the market’s best options available to you, run through whether planning permission will be required, and give you an idea of how costs compare.

Single storey extension ideas

Here’s a guide to the types of single storey extensions we offer at Lifestyle Windows and what makes them so special.

Classic conservatories

A classic conservatory is perfect for homeowners looking for an extension that’s been a proven hit for centuries, and a bright, airy space.

• Planning requirements: Usually fall under permitted development if your extension isn’t too large; we can handle council approvals if needed.
• Budget considerations: Cost-effective solutions available thanks to the versatile nature of conservatories, with options to upgrade glazing and roof materials for better energy efficiency.
• Design ideas: Ideal for a living room, dining area, or new ground floor extension to connect effortlessly with your existing property.

uPVC conservatories

Our uPVC conservatories are low-maintenance, durable, and ideal for a wide variety of properties.

• Planning requirements: Permitted development often applies, particularly for rear extensions.
• Budget considerations: Generally more affordable than aluminium or timber alternatives.
• Design ideas: Can create an open plan living area, kitchen extension, or utility room space. The frames don’t have to be finished in the standard white colour that is often associated with uPVC, as woodgrain effects and other contemporary classics are available.

Aluminium conservatories

Sleek, modern, and highly durable, aluminium conservatories are perfect for homeowners who want a contemporary look.

• Planning requirements: Can often be installed under permitted development rights; planning permission may be needed for larger builds.
• Budget considerations: Higher price point than uPVC but offers slimmer frames and a longer-lasting finish.
• Design ideas: Ideal for an airy space, open plan kitchen diner, or living room with bifold doors to garden areas.

Glass roof conservatories

If you love natural light, a glass roof conservatory is an excellent way to create an open, airy space.

• Planning requirements: Typically covered under permitted development; may require building regulations for structural elements.
• Budget considerations: Mid-range investment with stunning light benefits and energy-efficient glazing.
• Design ideas: Great for a new room, office space, or dining area with a vaulted ceiling for extra impact.

Tiled roof conservatories

Tiled roofs offer a solid, insulated option that transforms a conservatory into a practical year-round living area.

• Planning requirements: Usually need building regulations approval for structural safety.
• Budget considerations: Slightly higher than standard conservatories, but the improved thermal efficiency pays off long term.
• Design ideas: Perfect for a kitchen extension, larger kitchen, or utility room with a solid roof.

Orangeries

Orangeries are a stylish fusion of brickwork and glazing, offering a more permanent feel than traditional conservatories.

• Planning requirements: Building regulations are generally required; Lifestyle Windows can handle approvals on your behalf.
• Budget considerations: Mid- to high-range, depending on materials and glazing choices.
• Design ideas: Ideal as a ground floor extension with a kitchen island, kitchen diner, or open plan living area.

Garden rooms

Perfect for home offices, gyms, or additional living space, garden rooms can be customised to suit your lifestyle.

• Planning requirements: May require planning permission if your garden room is large or close to boundaries.
• Budget considerations: Variable depending on size, materials, and roof design.
• Design ideas: A flexible type of extension for office space, playroom, or a bright new room for hobbies or relaxation.

Examples of successful single storey extension projects

Goodenough case study

When the Goodenough family in Burton on Trent wanted more living space, they chose Lifestyle Windows for a bright, thermally efficient orangery.

• Comprehensive plan with detailed drawings helped visualise the new space.
• We handled building control approval to remove stress.
• Result: A safe, light-filled extension with easy garden access, perfect for year-round use and creating a modern kitchen diner.

Davies case study

The Davies family in Chesterfield needed a solution for a conservatory that was too hot in summer and too cold in winter.

• We replaced their old conservatory with a substantial orangery featuring solid walls and large glazed areas.
• Coloured render and integrated glazing provided both style and insulation.
• Result: A robust, all-year-round living space with excellent natural light and connection to the garden area.

FAQs

Who are Lifestyle Windows?

We’re a family-run home improvement company based in Ilkeston, Derbyshire, serving homeowners across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, and Leicestershire.

With over 30 years’ experience, we install windows, doors, conservatories, orangeries, garden rooms, and single storey extensions. All our work comes with a lifetime warranty, FENSA certification, and Which? Trusted Trader status. Contact us for a free, no-obligation quote or visit our showroom to discuss your project.

What can I use a garden room for?

A garden room is a flexible type of extension that can serve as office space, gym, extra living area, playroom, or even a dining room. It’s a practical way to make use of garden space while creating a bright, airy space you can enjoy all year round.

Key takeaways

• Single storey extensions are a great way to add extra space, improve natural light, and increase the value of your home.
• Options include classic conservatories, uPVC or aluminium builds, glass and tiled roofs, orangeries, and garden rooms.
• Planning permission and building regulations may be required; our team can manage the process for you.
• Consider your budget and material choice carefully, aluminium offers durability and modern style, while uPVC is cost-effective and low-maintenance.
• Real-life projects show that well-designed extensions transform living spaces, creating functional areas such as open plan kitchens, dining rooms, office space, and ground floor living areas.

  If you’re considering a new single storey extension, get in touch with Lifestyle Windows today. Our friendly experts can guide you through design, planning, and construction, helping you create the perfect new space for your home. Call us on 0800 783 6502 or email contact@lifestylewindows.co.uk for a free quote.