Are you dreaming of expanding your living space without sacrificing your beautiful garden? Well, we have some exciting news for you! You can now build an under garden basement extension right under your garden! In this article, we’ll walk you through the entire process, from the multiple uses of garden basements to the cost, regulations, and even building on a budget. So, grab a cuppa, and let’s dive in!
Multiple Uses for Basement Extensions Buried Beneath Your Garden
Basement extensions buried beneath your garden offer a plethora of versatile and exciting uses. Let’s explore some of the multiple ways you can make the most of this underground garden room:
Extra Living Space
One of the most common uses for an under garden basement extension is creating additional living space. You can design a comfortable and cosy living area, complete with a lounge, dining room, and even a kitchenette. This extension can serve as a perfect space for family gatherings, entertaining guests, or simply relaxing.
Home Office or Study
With the rise of remote work and the need for dedicated workspaces, an under garden basement can be transformed into a peaceful home office or study. This secluded underground garden room setting provides a quiet environment, minimising distractions and enhancing productivity.
Home Gym
Transform your under garden basement into a private fitness haven by setting up a home gym. You can install exercise equipment, mirrors, and proper ventilation to create an inspiring space for your workouts. The added benefit of being underground is better sound insulation, allowing you to exercise without disturbing the rest of the household.
Guest Suite
A basement extension can serve as a luxurious guest suite, providing a private and comfortable space for visitors. You can include a bedroom, bathroom, and a small living area, ensuring that your guests feel welcomed and pampered during their stay.
Home Cinema or Entertainment Room
Create the ultimate cinematic experience by turning your under garden basement into a home theatre. Install a large screen, surround sound system, and comfortable seating to enjoy movie nights with family and friends. It’s an excellent way to unwind and escape into a world of entertainment without leaving your home.
Wine Cellar
Wine enthusiasts will delight in the idea of a basement wine cellar. With proper temperature and humidity control, your basement can become the ideal storage space for your wine collection. You can also add a tasting area for an elegant touch.
Art Studio or Hobby Room
If you have a creative side, a basement extension can be converted into an art studio or hobby room. Whether you’re into painting, crafting, woodworking, or any other hobby, having a dedicated space to indulge in your passion is invaluable.
Storage Space
Basements are a natural choice for additional storage. You can organise the area with shelves, cabinets, and storage units to keep seasonal items, rarely used belongings, and other household essentials neatly tucked away.
Playroom or Children’s Area
For families with kids, a basement can be transformed into a designated playroom or children’s area. It offers a safe and spacious environment for children to play, explore, and have fun, especially during unfavourable weather conditions.
Rental Apartment or Airbnb
If you’re looking to generate extra income, consider turning your basement extension into a rental apartment or an Airbnb unit. It can be a source of passive income while utilising the space efficiently.
Benefits of Extending Your Home Under Your Garden
Extending your home under your garden by building a basement offers a wide range of benefits that make it an appealing option for homeowners. Let’s delve into the advantages of this unique home expansion:
Increased Living Space
The most obvious benefit of building an under garden basement extension is the substantial increase in living space without expanding the footprint of your house. It allows you to add multiple rooms and create functional areas that cater to your specific needs, whether it’s for extra bedrooms, a home office, or recreational spaces.
Preserves Garden and Outdoor Space
Unlike traditional above-ground extensions, building under your garden preserves the outdoor space and aesthetics of your property. Your garden remains intact and retains its natural beauty, making it a peaceful oasis where you can relax and unwind.
Minimal Disruption
Excavating and constructing the basement extension underground causes minimal disruption to your daily life compared to above-ground extensions. It reduces noise and visual disturbances during the construction process, allowing you to carry on with your routine more comfortably.
Privacy and Sound Insulation
An under garden basement provides enhanced privacy from the outside world. It acts as a natural sound barrier, reducing noise from the surrounding environment and improving the tranquillity of your living spaces.
Unobstructed Views
By extending your home underground garden room, you maintain unobstructed views from the existing windows and the surrounding areas. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery and natural light without any alterations to the exterior of your property.
Energy Efficiency
Basements have natural insulation from the surrounding soil, which helps regulate the temperature inside the space. This natural insulation can lead to improved energy efficiency and lower heating and cooling costs over time.
Flexible Design Options
Building under your garden allows for more flexibility in design and layout. You can customise the basement to suit your unique preferences, incorporating innovative design elements that might be challenging to implement in above-ground extensions.
Increased Property Value
Adding a basement extension can significantly increase the value of your property. The additional living space and functional versatility of a basement make it an attractive feature for potential buyers and can result in a higher resale value.
Home Safety and Security
Basements can serve as safe rooms during severe weather events, providing a secure shelter for your family. Additionally, building underground can deter potential intruders, adding an extra layer of security to your home.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Basement Extension
Now, let’s get to the exciting part – building your dream under garden basement extension!
Step 1: Assess property feasibility and consult with professionals.
Step 2: Collaborate with an architect to design the basement extension.
Step 3: Obtain necessary permits and approvals.
Step 4: Hire licensed contractors for excavation and construction.
Step 5: Waterproof and install proper drainage systems.
Step 6: Set up essential utilities like electricity and plumbing.
Step 7: Construct foundation walls and load-bearing elements.
Step 8: Complete interior finishing, including walls and flooring.
Step 9: Install electrical and plumbing fixtures as per the plan.
Step 10: Implement proper ventilation and HVAC systems.
Step 11: Ensure safety measures and compliance with regulations.
Step 12: Schedule inspections and obtain final approval.
Step 13: Furnish the basement and add personal touches.
Step 14: Perform final checks and clean-up.
Enjoy your new functional basement space!
How Much Will an Under-Garden Extension Cost in the UK?
The budget question! The cost of your under garden basement extension depends on various factors, including the size, location, and complexity of the project. On average, you can expect the cost to range from £2,000 to £3,000 per square metre. However, keep in mind that these are just estimates, and the actual basement cost might vary. To manage your finances better, we recommend obtaining multiple quotes from different contractors and budgeting for potential contingencies.
Regulations for Building a Basement UK
Before you start digging, let’s talk about regulations. In the UK, under garden basement constructions are subject to building codes and regulations, just like any other building project. It’s crucial to ensure compliance to avoid legal complications down the road.
Hiring licensed professionals who are well-versed in these regulations will give you peace of mind and guarantee a safe and successful project.
Can You Build a Basement Under an Existing House?
The answer is yes, but it’s essential to consider the feasibility. Retrofitting an existing house with a basement might be more complex and costly than building an under garden basement for a new construction. It requires thorough planning and expert guidance to ensure structural integrity and avoid any potential issues.
Do You Need Planning Permission to Build Underground?
This is a common concern for homeowners. In some cases, you might be able to take advantage of permitted development rights and construct your basement without planning permission. However, depending on your location and the size of the project, you may need to apply for planning permission. It’s best to consult with your local planning authority to determine the specific requirements for your area.
How to Create a Basement on a Budget
Creating a basement on a budget requires careful planning, resourcefulness, and a willingness to explore cost-effective options. Here are some practical tips and strategies to help you build your dream under garden basement without breaking the bank:
Simple Design and Layout
Opt for a straightforward and efficient design that maximises the use of space without unnecessary complexities. A simple rectangular layout can help reduce construction costs and make the best use of materials.
Strategic Excavation
Minimise excavation costs by carefully planning the depth and size of your basement. A shallow basement requires less digging and backfilling, resulting in lower expenses.
Reuse and Recycle
Look for opportunities to reuse or recycle materials. For instance, if you have leftover construction materials from previous projects, such as bricks, concrete blocks, or timber, consider repurposing them for your basement construction.
Use Affordable Building Materials
Instead of expensive high-end materials, choose cost-effective alternatives that still offer durability and functionality. For instance, engineered wood can be a more affordable option for flooring, and vinyl or laminate flooring can mimic the look of more expensive materials like hardwood or stone.
Get Multiple Quotes
Obtain quotes from multiple contractors and suppliers to compare prices. This will give you a better understanding of market rates and help you negotiate a competitive deal.
Negotiate with Contractors
Don’t hesitate to negotiate with contractors to get the best prices for their services. Many contractors are willing to work within a budget and might offer cost-saving suggestions.
Plan for Energy Efficiency
Investing in energy-efficient features during construction may have higher upfront costs but can result in significant long-term savings on utility bills. Proper insulation, energy-efficient windows, and LED lighting are some examples.
Choose Value-Engineering
Collaborate with your architects and contractors to explore value-engineering options. Value engineering focuses on finding cost-effective alternatives that meet the same functionality and quality standards.
Prioritise Must-Haves
Identify the essential elements of your basement project and prioritise them. If you’re on a tight budget, focus on the critical aspects first and consider adding non-essential features later as funds allow.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve just taken a significant step towards expanding your home with a stunning basement beneath your garden. Remember, thorough planning, compliance with regulations, and budget-conscious decisions are the keys to a successful project.
So, go ahead and turn your dreams into reality with an under garden basement extension that will add value, functionality, and joy to your home for years to come! Happy building!
