Double storey house extension by Matheson Whiteley Architecture. Photo by Maris Mezulis.
This article showcases a diverse range of projects, from designs that seamlessly blend with the existing building to bold, contrasting additions.
While adding two storeys might sound like a major undertaking, it could be the most practical way to transform your living space without the hassle of moving.
Whether you're in a compact Victorian terrace, a suburban semi-detached, or a rural cottage, this curated collection of architect-designed extensions demonstrates that innovative solutions exist for every type of home.
Photo by Killian O'Sullivan.
Sam Tisdall Architects masterfully blended old and new with a double and single-storey extension to this Victorian townhouse. Reclaimed London stock bricks in a Flemish bond pattern ensure the extension integrates seamlessly, respecting the home’s historic character while adding modern functionality.
Photo by Ståle Eriksen.
This Epsom home features a hipped-roof extension by Oliver Leech Architects, crafted to meet strict estate planning conditions. The concrete base, larch cladding, and grey tiles offer a modern twist, while the design nods to the form of neighbouring houses, achieving harmony with a contemporary edge.
Photo by Lorenzo Zandri.
Artefact Studio infused warmth and creativity into this south-west London home with a terracotta and pale blue rear extension. Inspired by Caribbean architecture, the design opens the 1950s house to light-filled interconnected spaces overlooking Roseberry Park.
Photo by Adam Scott.
The Step House extension by Grey Griffiths Architects features a distinctive staircase with geometric perforations. This two-storey addition to a workers' cottage in west London enhances connectivity, bringing light through the heart of the home.
Photo by James Brittain.
In Cornwall, Tuckey Design Studio revitalised a historic home with a stone-clad extension that juxtaposes the original lime-rendered facade. Close to St Michael’s Mount, this sensitive intervention honours the past while modernising for contemporary living.
Photo by Ståle Eriksen.
Using pigmented concrete blockwork, Al-Jawad Pike extended this Peckham home on a modest budget. The two-storey design seamlessly integrates exterior and interior finishes, creating a robust yet warm space for a growing family.
Photo by Rikard Kahn.
A glazed, double-height extension with a rigid steel frame defines this Camden home by EBBA Architects. Drawing from Victorian architectural cues, the addition complements the original terraced property while creating bright, open spaces.
Photo by Francesca Ióvene.
Bindloss Dawes reimagined this Grade II-listed Somerset property with a pitched timber extension. The new addition contrasts yet complements the 19th-century home, which once served as a local village school.
Photo by Tim Crocker.
House of Trace in south London merges memory and innovation. Tsuruta Architects replaced a sloping roofline with a pale brick extension, celebrating the original design while creating a fresh, functional living space.
Photo by Will Scott.
Mary Arnold Foster Architects added slate-clad extensions to this Scottish schoolhouse, enhancing the sandstone building from 1875. The design contrasts yet complements the historic structure, transforming it into a striking private residence.
Photo by Peter Landers.
Chris Dyson Architects created a soot-washed brick extension with a curved wall for this Georgian house in east London. Inspired by the Thames' curves, the design balances traditional and contemporary influences.
Photo by Andy Matthews.
Selencky Parsons’ gabled brick extension redefines this midcentury terrace in southeast London. The dual gables evoke Russian dolls, providing spacious living areas and addressing the needs of a growing family.
Photo by Fred Howarth.
Delve Architects designed rear and side extensions for neighbouring homes in Surrey, replacing cramped kitchens with airy, open-plan spaces. The two-storey designs also add much-needed bedroom space.
Photo by Jim Stephenson.
Proctor and Shaw prioritised sustainability in this triple-extension project. Timber frames, reclaimed materials, and Accoya cladding elevate this London villa, blending energy efficiency with refined design.
Photo by Jim Stephenson.
Jamie Fobert Architects transformed this Victorian house by goiung down two floors with an underground travertine-lined pool and light-filled living areas. Subtle exterior updates mask a luxurious interior overhaul.
Photo by Christian Brailey.
A glass-walled dining room and evening room with garden views define this Victorian extension by Architecture for London. Thoughtful design creates seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Photo by Jim Stephenson.
Oliver Leech Architects used reeded translucent glazing to bathe this north London home in soft light while maintaining privacy. A double-height rear extension unites living spaces across two levels.
Photo by French + Tye.
Vaulted roof lights crown the brick extensions of this Georgian house in De Beauvoir. Bradley Van Der Straeten Architects reorganised the living areas to create elegant, light-filled spaces.
Photo by Taran Wilkhu.
A striking atrium is the centrepiece of this Highgate Conservation Area home by Emil Eve Architects. The stepped brick design and double-height addition flood the interior with light and provide tiered indoor-outdoor spaces.
Photo by Paul Riddle.
This Gloucestershire gallery home by Alison Brooks Architects pairs a sleek black extension with a Georgian farmhouse. Designed for art lovers, the modern addition blends form and function in the Wye Valley.
Photo by Ben Pipe.
Satish Jassal Architects reconfigured this four-storey Victorian house, adding an oak-framed glazed rear extension. The design harmonises the restored layout with warm, modern details.
Photo by Maris Mezulis.
Matheson Whiteley’s brick extension to designer Sebastian Wrong’s Victorian townhouse features a workshop below and an en-suite bedroom above. The design fuses traditional craftsmanship with contemporary simplicity.
Photo by Ståle Eriksen.
Proctor and Shaw Architects replaced a dated conservatory with a cuboidal white-brick extension. Elegant, light-filled spaces redefine this Grade II-listed north London home for modern living.
Photo by Andy Stagg.
R2 Studio Architect’s ash-wood staircase with circular perforations connects the two levels of this Edwardian Lewisham home. Surrounded by riverbank gardens, the extension blends natural materials with playful design.
About the Author
Aron Coates is an architect with over two decades of experience, working on projects ranging from historic building restoration to contemporary home design.
