Single Storey Side Extension, Roan Street, Greenwich, South East London

Project Summary

Location: Roan Street, Greenwich, South East London
Extension type: Single storey side extension
Property type: Semi-detached house
Space created: New entrance hall and WC/shower room
Additional works: Internal refurbishment, including a redesigned kitchen and dining area
Planning context: Property is not within a conservation area
Key features: Exposed brickwork, new kitchen, integrated appliances and improved garden access

The Project Brief

This extension on Roan Street in Greenwich demonstrates how a relatively compact side extension can make a significant difference to the functionality of a home. The brief was to extend a semi-detached property to create a new entrance hall and WC/shower room, while carrying out internal refurbishment to improve the existing ground-floor accommodation.

Rather than focusing solely on adding floor area, the project was an opportunity to reconsider how the ground floor worked as a whole, providing useful new facilities alongside a refreshed kitchen and dining space.

Our Approach / The Design Solution

For this Greenwich property, a single storey side extension provided an efficient way of gaining additional accommodation without unnecessarily altering the main living spaces. The new footprint accommodates the entrance hall and WC/shower room, while the wider refurbishment allowed the kitchen and dining areas to be reorganised into a more practical layout.

The interior deliberately balances old and new. Sections of original brickwork have been left exposed around the kitchen and openings, bringing texture and character into an otherwise clean, contemporary scheme. Existing timber doors and architectural details further reinforce the connection with the original house.

The Extension & Refurbishment — Room by Room

The New Entrance Hall & WC/Shower Room

The side extension provides valuable additional ground-floor space, creating a defined entrance hall together with a new WC and shower room. Adding these facilities improves the everyday practicality of the property without compromising the principal living accommodation.

The Refurbished Kitchen

The kitchen has been comprehensively updated with light-coloured cabinetry, white worktops and contrasting dark handles. A U-shaped arrangement makes efficient use of the available footprint, providing generous preparation and storage space.

Integrated ovens and tall cabinetry maximise storage vertically, while the exposed brick walls provide a warm contrast to the streamlined kitchen finishes.

The Dining Area & Garden Connection

Alongside the kitchen is a dedicated dining area, creating a natural transition between cooking and everyday family dining. Warm neutral walls, timber furniture and a statement pendant light give this part of the room its own identity.

Glazed doors and windows introduce natural light and provide direct access to the garden, while exposed brickwork around the openings preserves some of the property’s original character.

Planning & Building Regulations

The Roan Street property is not located within a conservation area, removing one potential planning constraint. The exact planning route for any side extension will depend on its dimensions, position and the individual property. Royal Borough of Greenwich is the relevant local planning authority, while all new extension work must also satisfy applicable Building Regulations.

Space & Value Added

Although modest in footprint, this single storey side extension makes the ground floor considerably more functional. The addition of a dedicated entrance hall and WC/shower room provides useful new facilities, while the accompanying refurbishment has created a modern kitchen and dining environment without losing the character of the original house.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need planning permission for a side extension in Greenwich?

Not necessarily. Some single storey side extensions can qualify under Permitted Development, subject to specific limits and conditions. Larger extensions or properties with restricted development rights may require planning permission.

Can a small side extension make a worthwhile difference?

Yes. A side extension does not necessarily need to create a large living room to be valuable. Using additional space for an entrance hall, shower room, utility space or similar practical facilities can free up the existing floorplan and improve how the whole house functions.

Get a Free Quote for Your Greenwich House Extension

Planning a side extension or ground-floor refurbishment in Greenwich or elsewhere in South East London? Get in touch to discuss your property and arrange a free house extension survey in Greenwich by calling us today on 0800 917 7571.