5 Ways To Renovate A Bungalow

Known for their accessibility, simplicity, and single-storey layout – originally designed to meet the needs of families and retirees–bungalows have experienced a resurgence in popularity in the last decade as a flexible modern living space. Whether you’re looking for an open-plan living area, extra space for growing families, or energy-efficient upgrades, bungalows provide a versatile canvas for renovation.

With untapped potential in loft and roof spaces, and often purchased with sufficiently-sized garden to facilitate an extension, bungalows renovations can upgrade your property without the challenges of multi-storey structures.

What's more, with fewer stairs to navigate, they are a future-proof investment, suitable for homeowners of all ages. By renovating a bungalow, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: the cosy charm of a traditional home, paired with modern design and functionality.

Let’s explore five effective ways to transform your bungalow into a stylish, contemporary home.

Create more space with an extension

One of the most common ways to renovate a bungalow is to add an extension. Many bungalows sit on generously sized plots, providing enough room for side or rear expansions. A well-designed extension can enhance both your living space and property value.

Perhaps you need extra bedrooms, a larger kitchen, or a dedicated office? An extension can offer a seamless solution without compromising the original design. In some cases, these projects may fall under permitted development, but it’s always wise to check planning regulations.

Convert the loft for additional living space

Bungalows typically have large roof spaces, which makes them ideal for loft conversions. By converting the loft, you can create new rooms such as a master bedroom, an office, or even a guest suite. Loft conversions make excellent use of underutilised space and allow you to maintain the single-storey charm of your home.

It’s essential to ensure there is enough headroom–at least 2.2 metres–and you might need to add dormer windows or roof lights to bring in natural light. This type of renovation requires careful design and space planning through a architecural designer to ensure structural stability and may also need planning permission depending on the scale of changes.

Open up the layout for a modern feel

An open-plan design is a fantastic way to modernise your bungalow. Older bungalows often feature compartmentalised rooms, which can feel cramped by today’s standards. By removing internal walls, you can create a larger, more open space that connects your living, dining, and kitchen areas.

This type of renovation will make your home feel more spacious and, at the same time, improve the flow of natural light. It’s important to consult an architect or structural engineer when removing walls, as some may be load-bearing.

Add a roof terrace or outdoor connection

Incorporating outdoor spaces can greatly enhance the appeal of your bungalow. One innovative option is to add a roof terrace, which creates a private outdoor area for relaxation or entertaining. Another way to link your indoor and outdoor areas is by installing large sliding or bi-fold doors.

These doors help bring the outside in, making your garden feel like an extension of your living space. By choosing matching flooring for both indoor and outdoor areas, you can create a seamless transition that visually enlarges your home.

Update the exterior for curb appeal

Never underestimate the impact of a fresh exterior! Updating the facade of your bungalow can dramatically improve its curb appeal. Modernising the exterior might involve replacing windows, upgrading doors, or even applying new cladding materials. Consider adding contemporary touches such as larger windows or a sleek front door with glazing. This will both refresh the look of your home and improve insulation, making your home more energy-efficient.

How can we help?

At Maidenhead Planning, we can provide bungalow renovations that blend modern design with practical functionality. Our design and build services provide comprehensive support – from planning permission to the final touches–ensuring your renovation project is handled smoothly and professionally.

Whether you’re looking to extend, convert, or completely remodel your bungalow, our team has the expertise to bring your vision to life. Please do get in touch with Maidenhead Planning today or  book a free video consultation.