Haydn Bennett, Chartered Architect, Salisbury, Wiltshire, Dorset & Hampshire

• More space or to use existing space more effectively?
• Improvements to the layout or functioning of the house to closer fit the way the house is used?
• Improvements to the facilities and appearance?
• Use of a redundant space or area (including lofts & outbuildings)?
• Development of a new site or replacement of an existing building?
• Conversion of a building from other uses?

What are the Possibilities?

• The first and obvious option may be the right one but perhaps there is a better way
• Adding an extension without considering how this will affect the existing building may cause unforeseen problems and may not make the best of the situation
• The answer may be there staring you in the face but can you see it
• There may be a number of options - what are the advantages and disadvantages of each
• The space needed may exist but needs some work to release its potential or an extension may not need to be as large if existing space can be better used
• Work to existing buildings most often presents unique problems and the solution is often a ‘one-off’

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