House extensions in Cirencester

Matching the stone, coursing and mortar of an existing Cotswold stone house is one of the most important parts of an extension in Cirencester. Natural stone gives the closest match, while reconstituted stone can be suitable on some newer houses. Roofs, window styles and details such as lintels and copings also help new work sit comfortably with the old.

A contemporary extension with large glazed doors can work well on the back of a stone house, giving a clear contrast between old and new. In a conservation area the design will be closely assessed, so good proportions and quality materials are essential.

On semi-detached and detached houses away from the centre, rear and side extensions are the most common ways to add space. A single-storey rear extension can create an open kitchen and family room, and a double-storey side extension can add a bedroom upstairs. Larger projects usually need planning permission from Cotswold District Council.

Ground conditions vary across the town, and the foundation design will be agreed with building control. In historic areas, the council may attach an archaeological condition to a planning permission, which can mean a watching brief while foundations are dug.

Allowing for this from the start keeps the project on track and avoids delays once work is under way.

Many older Cirencester houses have small windows and deep rooms, which can make the back of the house dark. An extension is an opportunity to bring in more light, with glazed doors, rooflights or a glazed link between old and new. A glazed link also lets the extension stand slightly apart from the original walls, which can help in a conservation area by keeping the historic building clearly visible. Planning the light from the start makes a noticeable difference to how both the new and the existing rooms feel.