Dream Homes With Reach

It’s possible to achieve the luxury look on a less than luxurious budget say founders of The Simply Construction Group, Helen and Rob Wood

Everyone dreams of the latest top-end trends, but often that doesn’t tally with the reality of their purses. Focus on aesthetics alone and you can be blindsided with a huge quote that you simply can’t afford, but don’t let that put you off the project entirely. Here are the duo’s top tips on where to splurge and save when extending into your loft and side return to create your dream home, and still come in on budget.

Loft extensions continue to be a popular way to maximise space and value. What you want needn’t.

Roof terraces: Create your own green space at home, ideal for London houses with small or no gardens at all. Privacy glass provides you with your own botanical sanctuary whilst bifold doors bring the outdoors in.

Lots of windows: When it comes to windows, don’t scrimp! It is important to optimise the light and if it’s in the budget, consider a Juliet balcony. Savings can be made elsewhere.

Bathroom: Intricate and unusually sized tiles are in vogue, but they are significantly more expensive to hang. Use them on a feature wall rather than the whole bathroom for a designer look without the haute couture prices

Side returns are fantastic for creating bigger kitchens without compromising on all too valuable outside space. Bear in mind that you can fit in more than you think, even in small spaces.

Downstairs toilets: They don’t take up much space and the additional cost to the build is minimal – a no brainer

Utility rooms: Not to be overlooked, utility rooms or walk-in larders can be accommodated even in small extensions.

Windows: Bespoke fully-glazed side returns are all the rage, but they come with a hefty price tag. Don’t discount other solutions such as glass panelled roof lights, domed roof lanterns, Velux windows and glazed doors maximising light without compromising on design.

Crittall doors: Still popular, but if they are simply not in budget, then consider Crittall-style doors instead, creating the same black steel industrial look at a fraction of the price.

Simply Construction Group’s ethos is simple, high quality design and build of lofts, side returns and basements at fixed prices, no hidden costs and excellent value for money. “We always start off with what the client wants to achieve and what their budget is, that way we can offer sensational design solutions that won’t leave them feeling compromised or out of pocket,” explains Helen.

With clever design and lateral thinking, it seems we can all aspire to be the kings and queens of our very own dream homes