Extension (Guildford, Surrey)

A Light-Filled Transformation: Single Storey Extension & Kitchen Remodel in Surrey

When this homeowner set out to transform their tired, outdated kitchen, they had one clear goal—to create a bright, open, and social space that brought the heart of their home to life. Their vision? A contemporary extension that seamlessly blended indoor and outdoor living, flooded with natural light and designed for modern family life.

But to make this dream a reality, they needed expert structural engineering solutions to support their ambitious design.

Maximising Space & Light with Smart Structural Design

The existing home layout felt boxed in and disconnected, with a small kitchen and limited natural light. The plan was to extend the ground floor, opening it up into a spacious, airy kitchen-diner featuring:

✅ Glazed roof lanterns – Bringing in an abundance of natural daylight
✅ Full-height glazing – Creating a seamless transition to the garden
✅ Structural steelwork & RSJs – Supporting wide-span openings for an open-plan feel
✅ Clever space planning – Ensuring the kitchen remained both stylish and functional

With large sections of the original walls being removed, steel beams and precise structural calculations were essential to ensure stability and compliance with Building Control regulations.

Bringing the Vision to Life: Our Structural Role

Working closely with Fluent Architectural Design Services, we provided:
✔ Load-bearing wall assessments – Making sure the structure could safely accommodate wide openings
✔ Steel beam (RSJ) calculations – Supporting the large glazed panels and open-plan layout
✔ Foundation design – Ensuring stability for the new extension
✔ Building Control approval support – Delivering compliant, efficient structural solutions

With our engineering expertise, the project moved forward smoothly and efficiently, allowing the homeowners to focus on the finishing touches.

The Final Result: A Modern, Light-Filled Kitchen Extension

Now, this once-cramped kitchen has been completely transformed into an open, inviting space that’s perfect for family gatherings, entertaining, and everyday living. The addition of glazing and roof lanterns has created a bright and uplifting atmosphere, while the structural design ensures a safe and durable home for years to come.

“This project was all about opening up the home while keeping it structurally sound. The combination of contemporary design with smart engineering made all the difference!” – PorthouseDean Engineer

Looking to Extend Your Home? Let’s Make It Happen!

At PorthouseDean, we specialise in structural calculations for home extensions, RSJ designs, and open-plan transformations.

📍 Providing expert structural engineering across Surrey, including Guildford, Woking, and Leatherhead.