Side return or wraparound extension: which should I choose?
A side return extension fills the narrow passage beside a terraced house and widens the kitchen; a wraparound adds a rear extension as well, creating an L-shaped space. Side returns are smaller, cheaper and often permitted development; wraparounds add far more space but usually need planning permission and cost more.
Cost and size
A typical side return of about 11 m² costs around £26,000 to £33,000 at standard spec; a 25 m² wraparound is around £57,500 to £72,500, both national guide figures including VAT. Small extensions cost more per square metre, which is why side returns have a higher rate.
Planning
In England a single-storey side return can often be built under permitted development if it is no wider than half the original house and within the height limits. A wraparound is assessed as both a side and rear extension and usually needs a householder application. Both normally involve the Party Wall Act.
Light and layout
A side return keeps the garden and widens the room; a wraparound gives a large open-plan space but makes the middle of the house further from the windows. Glazed roofs along the side return are the usual answer in both cases.
Which one adds more space for the money?
Per square metre, the wraparound, because the bigger area spreads the fixed costs. If the garden is short or you want to keep it, the side return is often the better choice.
This guide is general information, not legal or professional advice for your property. Rules can change; we check the current position for your address at the survey.