--- title: "Small extension – big change | Andrew Catto Architects" description: "Comprehensive Home Renovations design services in Wandsworth. Lean-to side extension on a narrow 1960’s SPAN type terraced house." canonical_url: https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/projects/small-extension-big-change/ language: en copyright: © 2026 Andrew Catto Architects Limited --- [Back to Portfolio](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/portfolio/) | Home Renovations[Residential Extensions](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/portfolio/residential-extensions/) # Small extension – big change Wandsworth 2023 Private ![Wandsworth / A small extension, a transformative space - View 10](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/api/putney-architecture/media/images/variants/putney-architecture-gallery-c0d98528-aba5-4a0f-866b-56711828b7b5-andre-68ca346b-1760992692026.png/putney-architecture-gallery-c0d98528-aba5-4a0f-866b-56711828b7b5-andre-68ca346b-1760992692026_tablet.webp) Use keyboard arrows to navigate ## What's the project? Lean-to side extension on a narrow 1960’s SPAN type terraced house. ### Why is this special? The small ‘single storey’ side extension is almost invisible but made enough extra space for a nice kitchen, new WC, new study and to expand the bathroom upstairs into the new roof. ### The Challenge Changes in level and a crumbling retaining wall meant a tricky build and piled foundations. Neigh-bours tried their hardest to stop us getting planning consent, a licence or access. But with an equally determined client we persevered. The finished house shows why it was worth it. ### Our Solution The side path, originally thought ‘unbuildable’, now has a thin set back side extension in matching brick which by housing a new galley kitchen frees up the original ground floor space making room for a study and cloakroom. The steep roof at the side, inspired by the adjacent estate, adds just enough to the once cramped first floor bathroom to fit both a bath and separate shower. ### The Results A split level living / dining room linked to the garden and with a modern kitchen to the side, plus a new study and stunningly decorated ground floor WC – the only one on the estate. ### Project Details #### Services Provided - full architectural services - planning applica-tion - licence negotiations - party walls - tender package - contract administration - site supervision. #### Features - terraced garden - glass balustrade - solar panels - new bathroom - new kitchen - PV panels #### Client #### Year #### Categories Home Renovations Residential Extensions ## Planning something similar? Straight answers to the questions we're asked most about projects like this one. [Browse all questions](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/faq/) A dissent does not stop your project. It simply means surveyors are appointed to prepare an Award that sets out how and when the work proceeds — putting a clear, agreed framework in place that protects both you and your neighbour. You serve formal notice on the affected neighbour(s) before work begins. They can either consent or dissent. If they dissent — or do not respond — the parties appoint Party Wall Surveyor(s) who prepare an 'Award'. The Award records the existing condition of the neighbouring property and sets out exactly how and when the work should be carried out. We work with structural engineers to ensure all designs meet structural requirements. This includes foundation design, structural calculations, and ensuring compliance with building regulations. We never compromise on structural safety. We're transparent about all costs from the start. Additional costs may include planning fees, building regulations fees, party wall agreements, and unexpected structural issues. We identify potential additional costs early and keep you informed throughout the process. But most buildings hide something you won't find until work starts. Every project should have a contingency — though we often manage not to spend it. Yes, well-designed extensions typically add significant value to your property. A quality extension often increases property value beyond the construction cost. We design with both lifestyle and investment value in mind, ensuring your extension is a sound financial decision that enhances your home and your quality of life. Refitting adds little to the sale price, but you'll get the value of using it for years to come. Related: [a small extension, big change](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/projects/small-extension-big-change/) ## Related Projects ![A modern take on the pitched roof-1 - View 1](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/api/putney-architecture/media/images/variants/putney-architecture-andrew-catto-architects-lytton-grove-1jpg-a-modern-2fe512a3-1777137141769.jpg/putney-architecture-andrew-catto-architects-lytton-grove-1jpg-a-modern-2fe512a3-1777137141769_tablet.webp) 2025 ### A modern take on the pitched roof [Rusholme Road conservation area - Wandsworth West Hill](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/projects/a-modern-take-on-the-pitched-roof/) ![It is not always about a large extensionn - Video](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/api/putney-architecture/media/images/variants/putney-architecture-videopostervspfro-4d0a8cec-1775947812593.jpg/putney-architecture-videopostervspfro-4d0a8cec-1775947812593_tablet.webp) 2024 ### It is not always about a large extension [Willett Estate Roehampton SW15](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/projects/it-is-not-always-about-a-large-extension/) ![Rear extension that opens to garden - Main view](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/api/putney-architecture/media/images/variants/putney-architecture-gallery-42ec55bd-1bd2-4ff9-825b-f41de4f98204-andre-62fe7316-1760993695700.jpg/putney-architecture-gallery-42ec55bd-1bd2-4ff9-825b-f41de4f98204-andre-62fe7316-1760993695700_tablet.webp) 2012 ### Rear extension that opens to garden [Felsham Road- Putney](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/projects/rear-extension-that-opens-to-garden/) ## Ready to Start Your Project? We offer an initial consultation to discuss your project needs and how we can assist with from start to finish. --- [Original page](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/projects/small-extension-big-change/) ## Sitemap [sitemap.md](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/sitemap.md) · [llms.txt](https://www.andrewcatto.co.uk/llms.txt)