Planning & Design Practice was appointed to design and deliver a two-storey side extension in Swanwick. The brief was to create a luxurious master suite and additional leisure space, including a snooker room, while enhancing the property’s architectural character. Although the planning process was straightforward, technical delivery proved challenging due to the unique geometry of the site and the bespoke structural solution required for an oak-framed glazed gable.
The property occupies a generous plot, surrounded by mature trees and hedgerows that provide privacy and soften views from the highway. The existing dwelling is a substantial three-storey home set within a residential area characterised by detached houses and bungalows. The site benefits from a natural dip in the landscape, which informed the design approach by allowing the extension to sit lower than the main dwelling, reducing visual impact and maintaining a subservient relationship.
The design evolved to maximise natural light and garden views while respecting the scale and character of the existing property. The glazed gable became a focal point, requiring a bespoke oak frame to achieve structural integrity and aesthetic quality. Working with structural engineers, the team developed a solution that balanced slender glazing profiles with robust timber detailing, ensuring durability and elegance. The extension’s massing was carefully controlled—set back from the principal elevation and positioned within the site’s natural contours.
This project exemplifies how thoughtful design and technical ingenuity can overcome complex site constraints. By integrating bespoke structural solutions and high-quality materials, Planning & Design Practice delivered a striking yet sensitive extension that elevates the property’s architectural character and functionality. It’s a testament to collaboration and precision in achieving design excellence.
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