What is a wraparound extension?

A wraparound extension combines a side return and a rear extension into one L-shaped addition. It gives the largest possible ground floor, often creating an open-plan kitchen, dining and living space across the whole width of the house.
How much does a wraparound extension cost in Barnes?
In Barnes, a wraparound extension typically costs £2,850–£4,150 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 28 m² project that is roughly £80,000–£116,000. The guide for Barnes reflects typical costs in London, roughly 30% above the UK-wide figure. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (20 m²) | £57,000–£83,000 |
| Typical project (28 m²) | £80,000–£116,000 |
| Larger project (39 m²) | £111,000–£162,000 |
| Rate per m² | £2,850–£4,150 |
What moves the price most:
- Kitchen and flooring specification
- Access for materials on terraced streets
- Total footprint and the amount of glazing
- Party wall surveyor fees for one or both neighbours
A guide range is only a starting point: the guide price tool gives an instant figure for your size, and a free survey turns it into a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a wraparound extension in Barnes?
Approvals for a wraparound extension in Barnes follow the rules for England. In England a wraparound extension combines side and rear elements, which normally takes it outside permitted development, so a householder planning application is made.
Building regulations approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver. The work is inspected at key stages, such as foundations, drainage and insulation, and a completion certificate is issued at the end.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
The work we manage on a wraparound extension:
- Structural engineer’s design for steels and supports
- Design and planning application
- Underfloor heating option, electrics and plastering
- Foundations and drainage
- Walls, roof and glazing
- Building control completion
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 12 to 18 weeks on site. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 3 to 4 months, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in Barnes
Victorian and Edwardian terraces dominate many London streets, which is why side return, wraparound and mansard projects are so common here.
We work across Barnes and neighbouring areas such as Chiswick, Putney and Hammersmith. Postcodes we cover in Barnes include SW13.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 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 wraparound extensions in Barnes
Can we keep a separate living room?
Yes. Many clients keep the front room separate and open up only the back of the house.
Who approves a wraparound extension in Barnes?
Planning matters in Barnes go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
How much does a wraparound extension cost in Barnes?
In Barnes, a wraparound extension typically costs £2,850–£4,150 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 28 m² project comes to roughly £80,000–£116,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
How long does it take to build?
Around 12 to 18 weeks on site after approvals. Design, planning and party wall matters usually take 3 to 4 months beforehand.
Is a wraparound worth it?
It gives the biggest ground-floor space without going upwards. Whether it adds value depends on your street and house, so we suggest checking local sale prices before committing.
