When planning a house extension, one of the first decisions is whether to build on one level or two. Both options have genuine advantages, and the right choice depends on your property, your budget, your planning situation and what you actually need the space for.
Single-Storey Extensions
A single-storey rear or side extension is the most common type of house extension in Macclesfield. It is typically used to create a larger kitchen, an open-plan kitchen/diner, a utility room, a home office or additional living space.
- Generally simpler to design and build than a two-storey extension.
- More likely to fall within permitted development rights, avoiding the need for a planning application.
- Less disruptive to the existing house during construction.
- Flat or pitched roof options available, including glazed roofs and lanterns for natural light.
- Lower total cost than a two-storey extension, though higher cost per square metre.
Two-Storey Extensions
A two-storey extension adds space on both the ground and first floors simultaneously. This makes it significantly more cost-effective per square metre than building two separate single-storey extensions at different times.
- Doubles the floor area added for a relatively modest increase in total cost compared to a single-storey.
- Typically requires planning permission (most two-storey extensions exceed permitted development limits).
- More complex structurally and takes longer to build.
- Can add a bedroom and bathroom upstairs while expanding living space below.
- Greater impact on neighbours and more likely to generate planning objections.
Cost Comparison
| Single-Storey (30m²) | Two-Storey (60m²) | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical cost range | £54,000 – £75,000 | £96,000 – £138,000 |
| Cost per m² | £1,800 – £2,500 | £1,600 – £2,300 |
| Planning permission | Often not required | Usually required |
| Construction time | 10–16 weeks | 16–24 weeks |
Which Should You Choose?
If you primarily need more ground-floor living space and your budget is limited, a single-storey extension is usually the better choice. If you need additional bedrooms or bathrooms as well as ground-floor space, and your budget allows, a two-storey extension offers significantly better value per square metre.
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