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Side Return Extensions in Elmbridge & Surrey

  • 30 years experience
  • 10-year structural guarantee
  • Fixed fee quotation
  • 5% Scheduling discount
  • 500+ Successful projects

Maximise width in Victorian and Edwardian homes with a side return extension.

side return extensions built by HWP Design & Build in Surrey

Side return extensions for Victorian & Edwardian homes

A side return extension uses the narrow passage at the side of many period homes to widen the kitchen and improve the ground-floor layout—often without sacrificing too much garden.

We focus on structural strategy (openings, steels and load paths), drainage considerations and high-quality roof glazing to ensure the new space is bright and practical.

Because side returns can involve works close to boundaries, our party wall support guidance and early neighbour communication help keep things smooth. If you are exploring your options, you can request a fixed-price quotation or browse recent work in our projects gallery.

side return extensions build progress in Surrey home
side return extensions completed extension detailing and finishes

Key elements of a successful side return

Done well, the space feels wider, lighter and more usable.

  • Roof glazing to avoid creating a dark internal corridor.
  • Careful detailing at junctions between old and new walls.
  • Drainage reroutes or upgrades where existing runs conflict.
  • High-performance insulation and ventilation for year-round comfort.
  • Approval and compliance through Building Regulations and (where required) planning.

Design-led build, delivered with care

We start with a survey and feasibility review, then develop a scheme that respects the original property while delivering the modern space you want.

During construction, we maintain tidy, well-managed sites and communicate clearly—especially important in tighter side access situations.

We work across East Molesey, West Molesey, Hampton Court, Kingston upon Thames, Esher, Surbiton, Elmbridge and surrounding Surrey & South West London.

Why homeowners love side returns

  • Adds width to the kitchen—often the biggest day-to-day improvement.
  • Perfect for rooflights and bright open-plan layouts.
  • Works particularly well on London/Surrey period terraces.
  • Can be combined with a rear extension for a wrap-around result.

Related Services

House Extensions

Explore extension options and see what suits your home.

Learn more

Planning Permission

Guidance and submissions for Elmbridge & neighbouring boroughs.

Learn more

Building Regulations

Compliant details and a smooth route to sign-off.

Learn more

Ready to talk about your project?

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Sometimes, but it depends on the property and the proposed dimensions. We’ll advise after a quick assessment.

If works affect a shared wall or occur near a boundary, the Party Wall etc. Act may apply. We can guide you on the next steps.

We’ll plan works to minimise downtime, but there may be short periods without a fully functioning kitchen. We’ll discuss this upfront.

Not if designed well. Rooflights and glazing are commonly used to maximise daylight.

Yes. Drainage is a common consideration in side returns and we plan reroutes properly.

Yes. This is often called a wrap-around extension and can deliver a major transformation.

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