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 Islington?
In Islington, 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. 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 (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
- Steelwork and propping of the existing house
- Party wall surveyor fees for one or both neighbours
- Drainage changes
Use the guide price tool to see how size and specification change the figure, then ask for a written, itemised quote.
Do you need planning permission for a wraparound extension in Islington?
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.
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.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Foundations and drainage
- Walls, roof and glazing
- Removal of internal and external walls
- Underfloor heating option, electrics and plastering
- Building control completion
- Design and planning application
How long does it take?
Allow 12 to 18 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 3 to 4 months.
Building in Islington
Victorian and Edwardian terraces dominate many London streets, which is why side return, wraparound and mansard projects are so common here.
Islington sits in Greater London, about 2 miles north-east of central London. We cover the whole of Islington, including postcodes EC1P, EC4P, EC50 and N1.
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
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 Islington
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.
Do you build wraparound extensions in Islington?
Yes. We build wraparound extensions across Islington, including postcodes EC1P, EC4P, EC50 and N1. Every project starts with a free home visit.
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 much does a wraparound extension cost in Islington?
In Islington, 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.
Will both neighbours be affected?
Usually only the neighbour on the side return side, but rear foundations near either boundary can trigger party wall notices.
