Building Up in Bean: A Bold Take on Double Storey Extensions in Dartford
Nestled on the outskirts of Dartford, the quaint village of Bean is quietly undergoing a residential transformation. Once known for its peaceful cul-de-sacs and countryside charm, Dartford Bean is now a hotbed of smart, sustainable expansions — and nothing embodies this better than the rise of the double storey extension. More than just an architectural choice, these ambitious builds represent a new chapter in how homeowners in Bean are redefining space, function, and property value.
Why Bean, Dartford? Why Now?
Unlike the tightly packed boroughs closer to central London, Bean offers generous plot sizes, semi-rural surroundings, and a strong sense of community — making it ideal for larger home improvements. With Dartford’s property prices steadily climbing and stamp duty costs deterring many from upsizing through a move, extending upward is becoming the most viable — and value-rich — option.
In recent years, the Dartford Borough Council has streamlined the planning and building control processes for extensions in areas like Bean, especially where properties border the Green Belt but remain within development boundaries. This has opened the door for a new wave of architectural ambition — cue the double storey extension.
The Double Storey Extension: What It Really Offers
A double storey extension in Bean isn’t just about more space — it’s about transformational living. Homeowners are opting to use the additional ground floor space for open-plan kitchen diners, utility rooms, or even multi-purpose garden rooms that open onto large patios. Meanwhile, the upper floor offers new bedrooms, en-suites, home offices, or even self-contained suites for extended family.
What sets these extensions apart in Bean is their tailored design. Many builds incorporate features like:
- Brick and flint blends to reflect Kentish heritage
- Dormer-style features that respect the existing roofline
- Full-width bi-fold doors that invite the garden in
- Smart home integration — lighting, heating, security
- High-performance glazing to maximise light without heat loss
Planning Permission in Bean: Navigating the Local Landscape
While some homeowners assume a double storey extension may fall under Permitted Development (PD), it’s important to note that in Bean — particularly near protected woodland or conservation patches — planning permission is often required. Engaging early with Dartford Borough Council’s planning department can save weeks of delay.
Key factors that influence approval include:
- Neighbour amenity: avoiding overshadowing or loss of privacy
- Roof design and materials: must harmonise with the existing property
- Distance from boundaries: particularly side and rear
- Ecological considerations: especially in green buffer zones
The Build Process: From Sketch to Structure
Undertaking a double storey extension in Bean involves more than just good intentions. A successful project typically follows this structure:
- Initial Consultation – An architect or design and build firm assesses the site, discusses goals, and provides early sketches.
- Planning and Design – Detailed drawings are created with planning regulations in mind.
- Submission and Approval – Planning permission or lawful development certificates are obtained.
- Building Regulations – Structural calculations and drawings are submitted for compliance.
- Construction Phase – Foundations, drainage, steelwork, and structure go up, often taking 4–6 months.
- Finishing and Interior Design – The final weeks involve plastering, flooring, fixtures, and any smart integrations.
Many local builders in Dartford and Bean now offer design-and-build packages, simplifying the process and keeping costs predictable.
Return on Investment: Is It Worth It?
Absolutely. Double storey extensions in Bean can add between 20%–30% to a property’s value depending on the finish and function. Homes on roads like Southfleet Road and Bean Hill Road, when extended, often outperform their single-storey counterparts when it comes time to sell.
Moreover, the added livability—especially for growing families or multi-generational households—offers daily dividends that go beyond just financial metrics.
Sustainable Design: A Growing Trend in Bean
With environmental consciousness rising across Dartford, Bean homeowners are increasingly incorporating green features into their double storey builds:
- Air source heat pumps
- Rainwater harvesting systems
- Sedum roof sections
- Locally sourced, low-carbon materials
- Triple-glazing and underfloor heating
The goal? A future-proof home that doesn’t just meet today’s needs but anticipates tomorrow’s demands — energy efficient, resilient, and rooted in the environment of North Kent.
Conclusion: Double Storey, Double Potential
In Bean, Dartford, the double storey extension is more than just an upgrade — it’s a declaration. A statement that homeowners can stay rooted in their community while still expanding their horizons. Whether it’s a space to nurture a growing family, build a remote-working hub, or future-proof a property for later years, extending upward is proving to be one of the smartest decisions residents in Bean can make.
So if you’re contemplating your next move — perhaps don’t move at all. Build upwards, dream bigger, and let your Dartford home grow with you.
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