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 Bow?
In Bow, 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. Prices across London are typically 30% above the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Bow. 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
- Total footprint and the amount of glazing
- Access for materials on terraced streets
- Steelwork and propping of the existing house
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 wraparound extension in Bow?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location in 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.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Foundations and drainage
- Structural engineer’s design for steels and supports
- Building control completion
- Walls, roof and glazing
- Removal of internal and external walls
- Underfloor heating option, electrics and plastering
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 12 to 18 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 3 to 4 months.
Building in Bow
Victorian and Edwardian terraces dominate many London streets, which is why side return, wraparound and mansard projects are so common here.
Projects in Bow (E3) 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
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Permissions sorted
Applications, building control and neighbour arrangements, all before the start date.
- 04
Build and handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about wraparound extensions in Bow
Can we keep a separate living room?
Yes. Many clients keep the front room separate and open up only the back of the house.
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.
How much does a wraparound extension cost in Bow?
In Bow, 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.
What about the old back addition?
The side wall of the back addition is usually removed and replaced with a steel beam, so the old kitchen joins the new space.
Do you build wraparound extensions in Bow?
Yes. We build wraparound extensions across Bow, including postcodes E3. Every project starts with a free home visit.
