Side Return Extensions
Unlock Hidden Space
That narrow passage alongside your home isn't just wasted—it's costing you a bigger, brighter kitchen. Transform dead space into living space.
Why Side Returns Are Perfect for Terraced Homes
Most Victorian and Edwardian terraced houses in London have a 1-2 meter wide passage running down one side—historically used for coal delivery. Today, it's just unused alleyway that could be adding 15-25sqm to your ground floor.
A side return extension reclaims this space, typically widening your kitchen from 3m to 6m+. That transforms a cramped galley layout into a spacious, social kitchen with room for an island, dining table, and proper storage.
Side Return Design Options
Choose the architectural style that complements your period home.
Wandsworth Side Return Transformation
Drag the slider to see how we turned a 1.8m passage into a 6m wide kitchen.
Before
After
Your Side Return Journey
From consultation to completion in 4 simple stages.
Free Site Visit & Feasibility
We measure your side return, check Party Wall requirements, and provide a no-obligation quote. You'll know exactly what's possible and what it costs.
⏱️ 1-2 hours • Free consultationDesign & Approvals
Our architects create the drawings. We serve Party Wall notice to your neighbours and submit to Building Control. You approve the final design.
⏱️ 2-4 weeks • £2-3k design fee (deducted from build)The Build
8-12 weeks of construction. We excavate, build the extension walls, install the roof, and fit out your new kitchen. Weekly photo updates keep you informed.
⏱️ 8-12 weeks • Fixed price contractCompletion & Handover
Final snag list, Building Control sign-off, and your comprehensive handover pack with warranty documents. We don't leave until you're 100% happy.
⏱️ Final week • 10-year warranty includedSide Return Extension Costs
Upfront, honest pricing based on 200+ London side returns. Final cost depends on your specific site, finishes, and structural requirements.
What's included: Full design, structural calculations, all permissions, materials, labour, project management, warranties.
Payment structure: 10% deposit, 3 stage payments aligned to build milestones, final 10% on completion.
Side Return FAQs
In 90% of cases, no. Side returns typically fall under Permitted Development as long as the extension doesn't exceed 4m in depth (detached) or 3m (terraced/semi), and stays within height limits. We confirm this during our free site visit and handle the Lawful Development Certificate if needed.
Party Wall notices are a legal requirement, but they're not planning permission—your neighbour can't stop the work. They can appoint their own surveyor (which you pay for), but the project proceeds regardless. In 15 years, we've had zero projects stopped due to party wall disputes.
Absolutely. Side returns are one of the least disruptive extensions since the work is primarily external. We set up dust barriers and a temporary kitchen setup. The main disruption is 3-5 days when we knock through the existing wall to connect the new space.
In our experience across London, a well-executed side return adds £70-100k to your home's value, depending on location. That's typically a 200-250% return on your £30-40k investment—plus you get to enjoy the extra space.
We handle absolutely everything: architects, structural engineers, party wall surveyors, builders, electricians, plumbers, plasterers, decorators. You have one point of contact (your project manager) and one fixed-price contract. That's the beauty of design-build.
Combine with Other Extensions
Many homeowners combine a side return with a rear extension for maximum impact.
Ready to Transform Your Side Passage?
Book a free site visit. We'll measure up, confirm feasibility, and provide a fixed-price quote within 48 hours.
⭐ 4.9/5 from 200+ London homeowners