Thinking about your ideal house extension is exciting, but navigating planning permissions, building regulations, and structural considerations can feel overwhelming. However, your architect will know what’s necessary and these essential steps are the foundation of your dream home extension and well worth the effort.
Below, we showcase some stunning house extensions Saunders Brothers has completed throughout Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire, highlighting the unique aspects of each project.
House Extension Inspiration
House Extension in Buckinghamshire
This farmhouse extension involved a spacious kitchen extension with additional living space. We also refurbished the rest of the property while preserving its original period features. This stunning five-bedroom home was further enhanced with bespoke windows and doors throughout.
Cottage Extension in Buckinghamshire
Designed to blend seamlessly with the original architecture, this project included a large kitchen extension, master bedroom, and en suite. The result was a charming, period-appropriate extension that suits modern family living.
House Extension in Oxfordshire
Our client needed substantial upgrades, including multiple extensions and garden enhancements. We constructed both single and two-storey extensions, adding a larger sitting room, an upgraded master bedroom suite, a modernised kitchen, utility room, home office, additional garage space, and beautifully paved outdoor areas.
Georgian-style House Extension in Buckinghamshire
A beautiful example of a two-storey extension featuring a bespoke garden room, designed and built by the Saunders Brothers team. This project was carefully crafted to maintain the Georgian character of the original building.
Barn Conversion and Extension in Buckinghamshire
This secluded converted barn required remodelling and an additional extension to meet the client’s needs. The final result included expanded living space, enhanced interior design, bespoke hardwood doors and windows, natural stonework, garden lighting, and separate guest accommodation. We were delighted when this project was featured in House & Garden magazine. Read more.
Understanding Responsibilities: Principal Contractor vs. Client
Whether you are undertaking a small or large-scale house extension, understanding the responsibilities of both the principal contractor and the client is crucial. Here’s an overview:
Principal Contractor’s Responsibilities
Under the Construction Design & Management (CDM 2015) Regulations, any project involving more than one contractor requires the appointment of a Principal Contractor, who is responsible for:
Planning, managing, monitoring, and coordinating the entire construction phase.
Providing a Construction Phase Plan, detailing health and safety measures and emergency procedures.
Ensuring welfare facilities (such as toilets and rest areas) are available for workers.
Conducting site inductions to inform workers and visitors about site-specific safety procedures.
Maintaining secure site boundaries for safety and security.
Establishing clear site rules to ensure safe working conditions.
Consulting with workers on health and safety matters to foster a safe working environment.
Ensuring public safety around the site and maintaining safe access for the homeowner.
Client’s Responsibilities
As a homeowner undertaking a house extension, your responsibilities under CDM 2015 are minimal, provided you are classified as a domestic client (meaning the project is for your own home and not for business use). However, you should be aware of the following:
A Principal Contractor or Architect will handle legal responsibilities on your behalf. Ensure there is a written agreement in place on who will discharge Principal Designer and Principle Contractor obligations.
Your chosen contractor should provide a Construction Phase Plan - always ask to see it before work begins.
Clear communication with your contractor regarding project timelines, potential delays, and costs is essential.
Worksite safety is crucial - construction areas will be securely fenced off and should not be accessed without speaking to the Site Manager.
At the end of the project, a final inspection should be conducted with your contractor to ensure all work meets agreed standards.
House Extensions Advice
Every house extension is unique to the property and the homeowner’s needs. If you’re wondering where to start, our step-by-step guide to house extensions and renovations can help simplify the process.
Additionally, you may find the following resources useful:
Our friendly team is always available to assist. If you have any questions, feel free to email us at mail@saundersbrothers.co.uk or call us on 01844 273783 - we'd be happy to help!
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