An extension can be a great way to transform the layout of a home. However, there are some cases when it is not viable. In these situations a good alternative could be to adapt the internal layout of the current property. It may be possible to remove, relocate, or alter walls to change it up. As top architects London clients love working with, we want to offer some advice here.
Permission
In most cases you are free to alter the interior of a property without getting planning permission. However, if the building has a listing you may need to get consent to make the changes. It is always a good idea to check with the local council before you begin.
Identifying the wall
Whether a wall is load bearing or not will have a big impact on your project. There are far more options when the walls are only supporting their own weight rather than the load from other parts of the structure. You can generally remove and adapt them with more freedom.
You should take care to identify the type of walls you are dealing with. An easy thing to do here is tap the wall and check the sound. A hollow wall will make a much different noise than a block one.
Another thing you can do is look upstairs. If there is a solid wall above it is likely the one you are looking at on the storey below is also solid to support the weight.
The best thing to do is ask a professional for help. They will be able to check for you to see what kind of walls you are dealing with.
Structural changes
If you do find that a wall is load bearing you may still be able to make the changes you want. However, it will require more work than simply removing the wall. What you may have to do is install new steel support joists. They can bear the weight above and allow you to change the layout.
When you plan to make changes to structural walls you should work with experts. This includes a structural engineer and sometimes architects too. It is also vital that a building inspectors signs off on the project afterwards. You need them to issue a building approval certificate.
Come to top architects in London
At Coffey Architects we have the skills and expertise to help clients with various projects. In the past we have seen just how much a change to the layout of a property can reinvigorate the whole home. Taking out a wall can reveal a lot of extra space, make rooms brighter, and improve the flow. Therefore it is a good option whether you can extend or not.
So, if you are thinking of making changes to your home, call architects London clients can always rely on. We will be with you for the whole project to offer suggestions, guidance and more.