What is a glazed extension?

A glazed or contemporary extension uses large panes of glass, slim aluminium frames and modern cladding to create a bright room that contrasts with the original house. Frameless corners, structural glass roofs and minimal sliding doors are typical features.
How much does a glazed extension cost in Richmond?
In Richmond, a glazed extension typically costs £3,650–£5,450 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 18 m² project that is roughly £65,500–£98,000. That range is adjusted for London, where domestic building work typically costs around 30% above the national average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (13 m²) | £47,500–£71,000 |
| Typical project (18 m²) | £65,500–£98,000 |
| Larger project (25 m²) | £91,000–£136,000 |
| Rate per m² | £3,650–£5,450 |
What moves the price most:
- Access for large glass panels
- Cladding material
- Overheating and energy design
- Lighting and finishes
Your exact price depends on the survey and drawings. The guide price tool gives a quick range in the meantime.
Do you need planning permission for a glazed extension in Richmond?
The approval route for Richmond is set by planning law in England. In England a single-storey rear extension is often permitted development: broadly up to 3 metres deep on a semi-detached or terraced house and 4 metres on a detached house, no higher than 4 metres, with eaves no higher than 3 metres within 2 metres of a boundary, and covering no more than half the garden. The larger home extension scheme allows up to 6 or 8 metres if you notify the council first and neighbours have a chance to comment. In conservation areas, National Parks and National Landscapes the larger home extension route, side extensions and cladding are not permitted development. Flats and houses whose rights have been removed need a planning application, and listed buildings need listed building consent.
Where work involves a shared wall, building on the boundary, or digging foundations within 3 metres of a neighbour’s building and deeper than its foundations (or within 6 metres for deeper work), the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies and notices must be served before work starts.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
Handled as part of most glazed extensions:
- Electrics, heating and finishes
- Energy and overheating calculations where needed
- Contemporary design and planning drawings
- Cladding or render finish
- Structural design for steel frames and glass supports
- Foundations, walls and insulated roof
How long does it take?
Expect 12 to 16 weeks on site; glazing lead times can be 6 to 10 weeks. Design and approvals come first and typically take 3 to 4 months, depending on the approval route.
Building in Richmond
Space is at a premium in London, so homeowners often build out into the side return or up into the roof rather than move.
Projects in Richmond (TW9) are surveyed in person before we quote, so the price reflects your actual property.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 02
Design and fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed specification.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about glazed extensions in Richmond
How long does a glazed extension take in Richmond?
Typically 12 to 16 weeks on site; glazing lead times can be 6 to 10 weeks. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 3 to 4 months.
Can large glass panels be lifted in?
Some need a crane or glass-lifting robot. We plan access during design.
How much does a glazed extension cost in Richmond?
In Richmond, a glazed extension typically costs £3,650–£5,450 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 18 m² project comes to roughly £65,500–£98,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Will a glass extension be too hot in summer?
It can be if poorly designed. Solar-control glass, roof overhangs and opening vents reduce overheating, and building regulations may require calculations to show the design works.
Does it need planning permission?
The same rules as other extensions apply, but contemporary designs in conservation areas are assessed carefully. We discuss the design approach with you before applying.
