Bungalows built from the 1910s right up until the 1970s are hot property in the world of renovation and remodelling.
Often built on generous plots and with large footprints, bungalows built during these 50 years might not be shining examples of cutting-edge design – in fact they are very often rather unattractive – yet their potential is undeniable.
The fact that they hold little in the way of architectural merit is a good thing as planning committees are often more than happy to see them updated and improved, paving the way for some fantastic contemporary design.
We’ve selected some of the most inspirational single-storey remodels to give you some ideas.
1. Oak-clad Bungalow Extension and Remodel
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A dilapidated 1970s property on a wooded site in Berkshire has been transformed into a contemporary family home. The existing bungalow was retained, but with a significant internal remodel, whilst an extension and warm oak cladding now provides a first floor.
2. 1930s Bungalow Transformed
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The overhaul of this 1930s property has seen it extended and remodelled for just £110,000. When the high costs of removing soil from the awkward site, along with the nearby existence of underground mines, ruled out adding a second storey, the owner decided to extend the bungalow outwards in two directions, creating a flat-roofed wraparound extension.
3. Contemporary Single-Storey Remodel
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Built in 1916, this home has been extended to the side and rear, whilst retaining a large number of the existing exterior walls. Its two strong monopitch roof sections give the house striking angular shapes, whilst the combination of steel, stone and glazing make it hard to fathom that that hidden away inside is a 1916 bungalow.
4. Drab Bungalow to Fab Coastal Home
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Located on a heavily sloping site in a picturesque spot in Dorset, this 1990s property needed some ingenious design features in order to maintain privacy and make the most of the stunning views. The house is entered on the first floor via a ‘bridge’, whilst the entire rear wall of the property has been removed and replaced with glazed sliding doors which open up the living space and kitchen to the new raised deck.
5. Modernist-inspired Transformation
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A run-of-the-mill 1970s bungalow in Surrey has been transformed into a Modernist-inspired home — almost doubling its value.
The owners spent just £165,000 on the project. The centre of the roof was raised by 300mm, allowing for two rooms and an en suite upstairs without changing the appearance of the house from the street.
6. Stunning Bungalow Remodel and Extension
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In the area of Dorset where this house is located, 1950s bungalows on generous plots are not uncommon, yet the treatment that this particular bungalow has been given is certainly striking.
Twin gables to the front and rear of the property feature large expanses of glazing to ensure full-height views of the surrounding area. At the rear, the bungalow’s footprint was extended by 3m, and steel frames have allowed a largely open plan layout to be created.
The project came in at £195,000.