Side-Return Extension in Maidenhead — Edwardian Semi, Full Kitchen Transformation
Edwardian semi-detached properties in Maidenhead SL6 have a characteristic narrow side passage — the side return — that runs down the flank wall of the house. On this project we built over it to widen the existing kitchen, glazed the roof to bring in overhead light, and created a kitchen transformation from what had been an awkward, dark galley space into a bright, connected kitchen with light flooding in from above. Twelve weeks on site.
Project Summary
- Location
- Maidenhead, SL6
- Property type
- Edwardian semi-detached
- Service
- Kitchen Extension / Side-Return
- Extension type
- Side-return rear
- Build duration
- 12 weeks on site
- Roof type
- Glazed aluminium lean-to
- Glazing
- Crittall-style glazed roof + rear doors
- Structural steelwork
- 254×102 UC, 5m clear span
- Party wall
- Act 1996 notice served and agreed
- Building regulations
- Approved
Build Documentation
From Groundworks to Completion
Stage 1
Foundations
Narrow-access groundworks in a confined 900mm-wide passage. Excavation by hand where the digger couldn't reach the back of the site. Strip foundations at 650mm. Party wall surveyor present at foundation stage at the neighbour's request.
Stage 2
Glazed Roof Installation
Aluminium lean-to roof system installed by specialist subcontractor. Thermally-broken aluminium rafters, 28mm sealed double-glazed units. Roof pitch 5° — minimum for drainage. Lead flashing at junction with existing house wall.
Stage 3 — Completed
Kitchen Fit-Out Prep
RSJ beam installation via temporary propping. Full-length kitchen counter run now possible along the newly widened space. First-fix plumbing moved to accommodate new sink position. Screed floor to match existing kitchen level.
The Brief
The client owned an Edwardian semi with a narrow galley kitchen that backed onto the side return passage. The ceiling was low, the light was poor, and there was no room for a family kitchen table. The brief: use the side return. Widen the kitchen. Glass roof. Keep the Edwardian character externally.
What We Built
Side-return extension approximately 5m long × 900mm wide — the full length of the side return passage. Brick and block cavity construction, foundations to 650mm, party wall works completed under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. Glazed aluminium lean-to roof spanning from the existing house wall to the new outer wall — contemporary full-glass profile with thermally-broken aluminium bars. RSJ beam installed spanning the full length of the new kitchen opening into the side return space — a 254×102 UC section calculated for a 5m clear span. The Edwardian red brick of the original flank wall is visible through the glazed roof from inside.
Why Berkshire Bespoke Builders
- ✓Owner-managed — Pindi on site, personally
- ✓32 years experience — time-served builder
- ✓Fixed-price quotes — itemised, written, no extras
- ✓Building regs managed — submissions + inspections
- ✓Based in Berkshire — Binfield, RG42
FAQ
Kitchen Extensions Questions Answered
Do you need party wall agreements for a side-return extension?
Usually yes. The side-return runs along the boundary with the neighbour's property. If your extension foundations are within 3m of the neighbour's structure, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies. We advise at the initial site visit whether notice needs to be served.
What is the planning status of a side-return extension?
Most side-return extensions fall within permitted development, provided the extension doesn't project beyond the rear wall of the original house and the roof height stays below the existing eaves. The glazed roof on this project was a lean-to at 5° pitch — well within permitted development parameters.
Does a glazed roof cause overheating in summer?
With thermally-broken aluminium frames and modern solar-control glazing, overheating risk is substantially reduced. The 5° pitch and the position of this side-return — north-facing on this project — also reduced solar gain. Ventilation was provided via a vented ridge section.
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