Bungalows are a popular choice for homeowners in the UK, thanks to their low-maintenance appeal and how easily they can be adapted to various architectural styles. They often offer spacious living areas, generous gardens and plenty of natural light. However, bungalows can also have drawbacks, such as reduced storage space and a limited sense of privacy and separation. The single-story layout can also lead to sound transmission between rooms, creating potential disturbances for light sleepers or individuals working from home.

This guide to bungalow renovations will provide tips on how to maximise your bungalow's potential and create a comfortable and functional home.

Planning and Design

The first stage of any bungalow renovation is carefully planning and designing your changes. What areas will you be focusing on during your renovation? Will you prioritise structural updates, aesthetic enhancements or a combination of both? Are you looking to expand the living space, modernise the kitchen or create a more open and inviting layout? Additionally, think about energy-efficient upgrades, such as insulation and windows, to enhance the overall sustainability of your home. Then once you’ve defined your objectives, establish a realistic budget to cover architectural design, building costs and any additional expenses.

Planning Permission

Planning permission is required for some bungalow renovations, but not all. It’s therefore always best to check with your local council before starting any work to avoid any nasty surprises further down the line. 

To give you an idea, you are likely to need planning permission if you are: 

• Adding a storey to your bungalow.
• Extending your bungalow by more than 50% of its original footprint.
• Changing the external appearance of your bungalow in a way that is visible from the road.
• Converting your bungalow into two or more flats.

However, there are some exceptions to these rules so it’s always best to check with your local authority or a professional contractor.

For example, you probably won’t need planning permission for your bungalow renovation if you are:

• Extending your bungalow by up to 4 metres.
• Adding a porch or conservatory.
• Replacing your windows and doors.

Exterior Upgrades

Exterior upgrades can be a great way to enhance the curbside appeal of your bungalow without breaking the bank. For example, you could update the façade with new cladding, repaint the exterior walls or install new windows and doors to give your bungalow a fresh and modern look. Another cost-effective option is to focus on landscaping, as a well-maintained garden can significantly contribute to the overall appeal of your property.

Extensions and Loft Conversions

Loft conversions and extensions offer an efficient way to add valuable living space to your bungalow. For example, you could convert an unused attic into a bedroom, bathroom or home office or extend your kitchen to create a spacious and functional cooking and dining area. 

If you decide to opt for a loft conversion, make sure you evaluate the structural feasibility of transforming the attic space into a habitable area. The floor needs to be structurally sound enough to support the additional weight and your roof may need to be adjusted to accommodate the extra living space.

In the case of extensions, think strategically about the placement and purpose of the added space. For example, you might consider an open-plan design to maximise the sense of space and connectivity between different areas of your home. Additionally, factor in insulation and energy-efficient features to ensure the new space is comfortable and environmentally friendly. Adequate insulation helps regulate temperature, reducing energy consumption and costs in the long run.

Interior Design and Storage

Bungalows often have limited storage space, so it's important to be creative and maximise the space you do have. Built-in shelving, cabinets and drawers are great ways to keep clutter hidden and organised. Under-stair storage is another great option, as is using ottomans or trunk-style furniture to hide extra storage.

Kitchen and Bathroom Makeovers

Bungalows offer fantastic renovation potential and updating the heart of the home (the kitchen and bathroom) is a surefire way to transform your living experience and add value to your bungalow. 

If you do decide to revamp your kitchen or bathroom during your bungalow renovation, be mindful of the single-story layout. Open-plan kitchens can be fantastic for fostering togetherness but consider soundproofing solutions for bedrooms or quiet nooks if noise might be a concern. In the bathroom, prioritise ventilation to combat moisture issues which are common in single-story properties.

Energy Efficiency

While bungalows offer charm and convenience, they often lag behind modern houses in terms of energy efficiency. However, a bungalow renovation presents a fantastic opportunity to upgrade your home's environmental and financial performance.

For example, you could upgrade your bungalow’s insulation, invest in double-glazed windows or explore renewable energy options like solar panels. These measures not only contribute to environmental sustainability, but they can also help you reduce your long-term energy costs.

Maintain Period Features

Bungalows, particularly older ones, often boast unique period features. These elements, like original fireplaces, sash windows or decorative mouldings, tell a story and contribute to the home's soul. When renovating your bungalow, preserving these treasures can enhance its charm and increase its value. 

Before deciding which features to focus on, conduct a thorough evaluation of your bungalow to determine what requires restoration, repair or simply careful preservation. In addition, consult with architects, skilled builders or specialist contractors with experience in period renovations. They can provide advice on restoration techniques and suitable materials.

Enlist the Help of Professionals

Finally, while it can be tempting to do the work yourself, hiring qualified professionals for your bungalow renovation can save you time, stress and potentially money in the long run, especially for complex tasks or those requiring specialised expertise.

At JM Construction, we understand the importance of turning your bungalow renovation dreams into a reality, and we're here to guide you every step of the way. We bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table and understand the unique challenges and opportunities posed by bungalow renovations. We'll help you avoid costly mistakes, ensure a stress-free process and ultimately deliver a beautiful and functional space that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.