Client: Domestic Client

Works: Single storey rear extension to a semi-detached house in Chandlers Ford

Value: £75,000

Project description: ghd partnership worked with the client to rationalise part of the existing property (particularly the ground floor).  The property already had an existing rear kitchen extension and a small conservatory, but although the former original kitchen was linked to the kitchen, it did not appear to be fully used. The clients were looking for ideas on how the internal areas could be altered to provide a more open plan and ensure that there was no dead space within the property. ghd partnership prepared sketches which utilised the existing extended kitchen and amalgamated the former kitchen and dining room.  The sketches also included replacing the existing conservatory with a cavity wall structure. The design encompassed all the areas to create an open plan family room with a partial vaulted ceiling with Velux roof lights to allow natural light to flood into the internal aspects of the property and especially the rear of the original dining room.

This design allowed the clients to utilise the room to its full capacity which allowed the clients to host large dinner parties and family gathering.  It also included a small seating area and a new kitchen that connected the rooms with a breakfast bar which allowed family members, guests etc. to connect with the clients whilst cooking or preparing food in the kitchen etc.

ghd partnership also prepared and submitted planning drawings as the property did not have any permitted development rights, as this was removed when the former extension was granted. Once planning permission was obtained, ghd partnership prepared and submitted the building regulations drawings. Thereafter ghd were appointed to act as Contract Administrator.  This role included obtaining contractors quotations based on a schedule of works, managing the works on behalf of the client, dealing with interim payments, agreeing the final account, and issuing the practical completion certificate and then the final completion certificate at the end of the defects period.

ghd partnership are also qualified party wall surveyors so were able to advise the clients on their responsibilities under The Party Wall Act 1996 and subsequently issued party wall notices to the adjoining owners.  Discussions between the clients and the adjoining owner resulted in a positive response with only a schedule of condition being undertaken, thus reducing costs for the building owner but also providing a detailed schedule of condition of the internal aspects of the property which would be a base line should any defects occur to the neighbouring property.   

The client was not only pleased with the complete extension but were equally pleased with both the services provided by ghd and the contractor. Building projects should be considered in its entirety and as a working partnership to ensure that the clients’ needs and requirements are met.