Bungalows are everywhere across Northern Ireland, many built in the 1960s, 70s and 80s on generous plots. They often have dated layouts and poor insulation, but they also offer some of the best potential of any house type.
Why bungalows make great projects
- Large plots leave room to extend.
- Roof spaces can often be converted to add a whole new floor.
- Single-level living suits people planning for later life.
Dormer conversions
Adding dormers to the roof creates full-height space upstairs for bedrooms and bathrooms. Depending on the roof pitch and structure, this can mean adding dormers to the existing roof or raising and rebuilding the roof entirely. Either way, a new staircase is needed – and finding the right place for it is one of the key design decisions.
Reconfiguring the ground floor
Many older bungalows have small, separate rooms and long corridors. Removing internal walls to create an open-plan kitchen, dining and living area makes a dramatic difference. Structural walls will need steel beams and engineer’s calculations.
Extending outwards
A single-storey rear or side extension is often the simplest way to add a large kitchen or family room, and suits buyers who want to stay on one level.
Upgrading performance
A renovation is the perfect time to improve insulation, replace windows, upgrade heating and rewire. These upgrades make the home warmer, cheaper to run and more attractive to future buyers.
Approvals
Dormer conversions and roof changes usually need planning permission as well as Building Control approval. See our planning guide and our article on loft conversions for more detail.
SC Developments has transformed bungalows across County Down and Belfast. Explore our renovations or contact us to discuss your home.
