The great thing about working with architects is they can elevate your ideas. Whether it is an extension, a new build, a small project or a huge one, their input and advice can be invaluable. As one of the top choices for an architect London has, we are a team you can trust here. We want every single piece of work we create to be something everyone will love.

The housing market in the UK has been incredibly hot in recent months. Homes have been flying off the market in many regions, often only days after listing. This is pushing up prices and causing challenges for some people who want to move up the ladder to get more space. It is making more people consider extensions and how they can avoid moving by creating extra space in their current property. This can be a good alternative.

Think about the carbon footprint

While the main focus will be on creating new space, people planning an extension also have the opportunity to improve the carbon footprint of their home. They can do this by ensuring the new addition is carbon neutral and make use of green technology where possible.

If you do want to do this, you should start by thinking about the embodied energy. This looks at how much carbon releases into the atmosphere during the manufacture of different raw materials. Ideally you want to use materials with low embodied energy, including timber and alternatives to concrete.

The second thing to think about is the operational energy. What you need to look at here is the amount of carbon you will produce to power, heat and cool the new space. Ideally what you want is to ensure the new extension keeps the emissions as low as possible. This means ensuring it is energy efficient with great insulation and air tightness. It is also a wonderful idea to use renewable energy where possible.

Can you change other parts of the building?

A great extension can be carbon neutral so the new part of the building is not contributing to the emissions. However, you may want to look at how you can improve other parts of the structure at the same time. These improvements can dramatically reduce your carbon footprint.

For example, if you are looking to insulate the extension properly, why not make sure the rest of the property has good insulation too? Older buildings could save lots of energy by insulating walls, ceilings, floors, and roofs. It can be an investment that pays off by making your home easier to heat while also reducing CO2 emissions.

A new boiler could be a great investment too. There are lots of modern ones that are way more efficient and produce far less CO2. You could even opt for a clearer alternative like a heat pump.

Choose a top architect in London for your project

Coffey Architects knows how to succeed when clients come to us with extension projects. You can see a few of them yourself on our projects page. We work closely with each client to get an idea of their goals and then design something that fits their brief. Whether they want a new addition that stands out or something to complement the existing property, we can do it.

So, if you want to work with a top architect, London has few options on our level. We are creative, experienced, and willing to adapt to suit any needs. Contact us today to find out more.