Bungalow Transformation In Balham

Introduction to the Project

At LMB Group, we pride ourselves on creating clever solutions that maximise the potential of every property. While loft conversions and extensions are our bread and butter, we also take on more ambitious projects – and this bungalow transformation is a fantastic example. The idea was simple but powerful: take a single-storey bungalow and add another floor on top, effectively doubling the home’s footprint and creating a spacious family house without the need to move.

This project was made possible under permitted development rules, which meant we could construct an entire new storey without going through the full planning application process. For the homeowners, it was a chance to completely rethink how their property worked for them. They loved their location and the plot their bungalow sat on, but they were running out of space as their family grew. Moving to a larger home wasn’t an option they wanted to consider, so building up made perfect sense.

Understanding the Client’s Needs

The family wanted to turn their modest bungalow in Balham into a home that could comfortably accommodate their day-to-day life while also providing space to grow. They needed additional bedrooms, modern bathrooms and more flexibility in how they used the space. With children now sharing rooms and guests often staying over, the pressure on their existing layout was becoming too much.

Their wish list was clear: four new bedrooms and two new bathrooms, all on a brand-new upper floor. This would allow the ground floor to be redesigned for more open-plan living, giving the family both communal and private spaces to enjoy. The end goal was not just to gain square footage, but to create a well-balanced home that could serve them for many years to come.

Design and Planning

Our first step was to assess the bungalow’s existing structure and see how it would support a new floor. This particular property had a timber truss roof, which is a common feature in bungalows but needs to be completely removed when adding another storey. The removal of the truss opened up the space above, ready for us to build the new floor with its bedrooms and bathrooms.

We worked closely with the family to design a layout that was both practical and future-proof. The four bedrooms were evenly distributed across the new floor to make the most of natural light and to ensure each room felt comfortable and private. The two bathrooms were positioned for easy access from each bedroom, with one serving as a family bathroom and the other as an en-suite to the new master bedroom.

The external finish was just as important as the internal layout. The property had a K Rend finish, and it was vital that the new floor blended perfectly with the existing ground floor. K Rend provided a clean, modern appearance that tied the old and new elements together, making the transformation look as though the house had always been two storeys.

The Build Process

The project began with the careful removal of the old roof structure. Our team ensured this stage was carried out efficiently and safely, protecting the ground floor and the family’s belongings during the process. Once the old trusses were removed, we began constructing the new first floor, using strong and well-insulated materials to meet building regulations and provide excellent thermal performance.

The frame for the new upper level was assembled and fixed in place, followed by the installation of the roof structure for the now two-storey home. We designed the roof to complement the shape of the existing property and the surrounding homes, ensuring it looked completely natural in its setting.

Windows were positioned to flood each new bedroom with light, while providing good ventilation. The bathrooms were fitted with modern fixtures, energy-efficient fittings and high-quality finishes to give a fresh, contemporary look.

Interior Finishes and Details

The new upper floor was plastered, painted and finished to a high standard. Flooring was chosen for durability and comfort, with each bedroom given a slightly different feel to suit its occupant. The master bedroom became a true retreat, complete with its en-suite bathroom finished in sleek tiles and modern fittings.

The family bathroom was designed to be bright, easy to maintain and spacious enough for the whole family to use without feeling cramped. It featured a full-sized bath as well as a shower, giving flexibility for both quick mornings and relaxing evenings.

On the ground floor, the removal of the pressure on bedroom space allowed the layout to be reconfigured for a more open-plan style. This created a larger living area and a more sociable kitchen and dining space, enhancing the way the family spent time together.

Challenges and Solutions

Transforming a bungalow into a house is a significant project, and there are always challenges to address. One of the main considerations was ensuring the existing walls and foundations could handle the extra weight of a new floor. Our structural team carried out detailed checks and reinforced key areas where necessary, giving the new storey a strong and stable base.

We also had to carefully coordinate the build so that the family could remain in the property during much of the construction. This required thoughtful scheduling and protective measures to minimise disruption and keep the work area safe.

The Final Result

The difference between the original bungalow and the finished home was truly remarkable. What had once been a single-storey property with limited space was now a spacious two-storey family house, complete with four new bedrooms, two modern bathrooms and a fresh, contemporary look. The K Rend finish tied everything together beautifully, making the transformation seamless from the outside.

Inside, the new upper floor gave the family the space they needed to live more comfortably. The children each had their own bedrooms, the master suite provided a peaceful escape for the parents, and guests could be accommodated easily. The ground floor felt more open and better suited to modern family life, with space to relax, eat and entertain.

Client Feedback

The Henry family were delighted with the transformation, describing it as life-changing for their family. They loved how the design made every part of the home feel more functional and how the new layout gave them both privacy and togetherness. The fact that it was all achieved without the need to move was a huge relief, and they appreciated how smoothly the process went from start to finish.

Why This Project Stands Out

This bungalow transformation shows just how much potential there can be in building upwards. Under permitted development, adding an entire extra floor can be an incredibly effective way to gain space, especially for families who love where they live but have outgrown their home. In this case, the result was a property that looked brand new but still felt familiar, with all the benefits of location and community intact.

Conclusion

At LMB Group, we believe in finding the best way to make a home work for its owners, whether that means converting a loft, extending to the rear or, in this case, adding a whole new storey. This bungalow in particular went from feeling tight and limited to being a generous, modern family home with room to grow. The combination of smart design, quality materials and skilled workmanship made it possible, and the result is a home that will serve the family well for many years to come.

This case study is proof that with the right approach, you don’t always need to move to find the space you need – sometimes, you just need to build upwards.