November 26, 2024 / By rachel
On the surface, this might seem like a straightforward extension to a modest, modern, two-bedroom end-terrace house. And in some ways, it is. But beneath the surface lies a more significant achievement.
Our clients; a young couple purchased their first home on a relatively new housing estate in Ludlow. It was perfect for them at the time—affordable, cozy and in an ideal location. They settled in, adopted a dog and built their life together. However, as they started planning for the next chapter, including starting a family, they realised that the house was just a little too small for their growing needs.
The area was perfect: a great school catchment area and close to friends and family. The thought of selling up, remortgaging, paying stamp duty and all the upheaval of moving wasn’t appealing. That’s when they turned to RRA Architects for help.
By acquiring some unused, adjacent land, our clients managed to almost double the size of their garden, offering the perfect opportunity to expand their home. However, there was a significant challenge. This house was built as one of the ‘affordable homes’ as part of a larger housing scheme. As such, there are strict restrictions—such as a prohibition on extensions or modifications that increase their value beyond affordability thresholds.
RRA worked closely with the Planning Department and the local Affordable Housing Officer to make the case for the extension. Through a combination of clear communication, careful design and negotiation, we demonstrated that the proposed scheme would be acceptable in planning terms and managed to secure the delisting of the house from the Affordable Housing register.
We were thrilled to receive Planning Approval for the extension, marking the start of an exciting new chapter for our clients.
This project is a great example of how thoughtful design and a strategic approach can deliver life-changing results. By staying in the area they love, our clients will be able to nearly double the size of their home—creating the perfect space for their growing family—without the stress and cost of moving.
It’s a wonderful outcome, and we’re so happy to have played a part in making it happen!
Caveat: Planning policy, particularly when it comes to Affordable Housing regulations, can be highly complex. For the sake of brevity, we have not delved into the intricate details of the specific requirements and processes involved in this case. Each project is unique and we always recommend seeking professional advice tailored to your circumstances.