Project Ref: 2304LB_LDC
This Waterside (Walthamstow) project shows how the Prior Approval route can unlock meaningful family space with a neighbour-sensitive design. The scheme introduces a staggered extension depth to mitigate impact on the adjoining property, a vaulted roof with modern glazing for generous volume and daylight, and a flat roof to one side to keep the massing calm and practical. Inside, the plan delivers a new kitchen and a bright open-plan living/dining space that gives the family room to grow.
Project Overview
As residential specialists, we led the process from early feasibility through the Prior Approval submission, assembling drawings and supporting information to demonstrate compliance with the Larger Home Extension / neighbour consultation criteria. Our approach balanced ambition with sensitivity: improving natural light and family flow while managing outlook, depth and height in a tight terrace context within the London Borough of Waltham Forest.
Design & Planning
- Neighbour-friendly massing: The rear wall steps (staggered depth) to reduce perceived bulk and daylight/amenity impacts along the party boundary.
- Dual roof strategy: A vaulted roof zone with modern glazing creates uplifting volume over the main living area; a flat roof to one side simplifies drainage, allows discreet services, and keeps the eaves line modest.
- Light & views: High-performance glazing frames garden views and drives daylight deep into the plan, supporting a flexible family layout.
- Material calm: Brickwork and trims are chosen to sit comfortably with the host terrace and neighbouring rear elevations.
We prepared a clear submission pack with plans, elevations/sections, depth annotations and neighbour interface diagrams to streamline the Prior Approval decision. With approval in hand, the client can now progress to technical design and build.
Interior Outcome
The reconfigured ground floor provides a family hub: an efficiently planned kitchen connected to generous dining and living zones, all oriented to the garden. The vaulted portion lifts the experience, while the flat-roof side allows for tidy integration of ventilation, lighting and future services.
Key Drawings
Practical Tips for Prior-Approval Rear Extensions
- Model the neighbour line: Use a staggered depth to soften impact along the boundary—often the difference between objection and acceptance.
- Pick the right roof where it matters: Vault where you live (over dining/living) and keep a flat roof where services or boundary constraints apply.
- Daylight first: Glazing + vaulted ceilings can outperform sheer floor area for perceived space; plan window positions with furniture in mind.
- Drainage & ventilation: Decide early how you’ll route falls, downpipes and extracts—especially at the flat-roof side—to avoid last-minute compromises.
- Budget guardrails: Sense-check scope vs. cost with our Extension Cost Calculator before locking details.
- Think beyond approval: After consent, move into Building Regulations drawings and inspector plan-check; coordinate structure, insulation and openings early.
Outcome
A neighbour-sensitive extension that delivers volume, light and a future-proof layout—approved via the Prior Approval route. The family now benefits from a calm, bright living space with a kitchen at its heart and a clear line of sight to the garden.
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