Harridge Avenue, Rochdale

This project on Harridge Avenue, Rochdale reflects Studio FRI’s considered approach to bungalow extensions, where proportion, restraint and planning judgement define the outcome. The scheme introduces a front and rear dormer to an existing detached bungalow, delivering valuable additional accommodation while preserving the home’s character and street presence. Rather than pursuing scale for its own sake, the dormers were conceived as a natural extension of the original roof form. The result is a calm, balanced intervention that enhances the property without architectural overstatement.

Design Approach and Architectural Intent

Bungalows demand precision. Their simplicity leaves little tolerance for poorly judged roof alterations. At Harridge Avenue, the front dormer was carefully positioned within the principal roof slope to reinforce symmetry and maintain a composed elevation. Its scale and detailing were deliberately controlled, ensuring the original ridge line remains dominant and the bungalow’s proportions intact. The rear dormer was designed as a restrained, functional intervention, maximising headroom and usable space while limiting visibility and protecting neighbouring amenity. Materials and detailing were selected to sit comfortably alongside the existing building, allowing the extension to read as a cohesive whole.

Internal Reconfiguration and Added Value

The dormer extensions enabled a complete reorganisation of the internal layout, transforming the bungalow into a more flexible and future-proof family home. The new upper-level accommodation provides generous bedrooms and bathroom space, significantly improving usability without increasing the building footprint. Careful attention was given to circulation, ensuring the new spaces feel integral rather than retrospectively added, resulting in a calm and coherent internal environment.

Planning Strategy and Contextual Sensitivity

Planning considerations informed the scheme from the outset. Studio FRI assessed local character, neighbouring context and relevant design guidance to ensure the dormers would sit comfortably within Harridge Avenue’s established residential setting. The proposal was refined through the planning process, including amendments following officer feedback, ensuring clarity, compliance and confidence at submission stage. This planning-led approach reduced risk and delivered a well-judged outcome.

Studio FRI’s Role

Studio FRI acted as lead architectural consultant, providing measured surveys, architectural design, planning drawings and ongoing professional advice. Our role extended beyond drawings, guiding key decisions to balance client ambition with planning realism. The project reflects our wider experience delivering bungalow extensions and dormer conversions across Rochdale and Greater Manchester, particularly where proportion and judgement are critical.

A Balanced and Thoughtful Bungalow Extension

Harridge Avenue demonstrates how additional space can be achieved through restraint rather than excess. The front and rear dormers enhance functionality and long-term value while respecting the original bungalow and its surroundings. It is a scheme defined by clarity, proportion and confidence.

Considering a Bungalow Extension in Rochdale?

Extending a bungalow requires careful judgement. Roof height, dormer scale and neighbour impact must be finely balanced, particularly within Rochdale’s established residential areas. Studio FRI works with homeowners across Rochdale, Bamford, Norden, Shawclough, Wardle, Whitworth and Littleborough, delivering planning-led bungalow extensions shaped by design intelligence as much as technical compliance. From early feasibility and planning advice through to Building Regulations approval and construction phase support, Studio FRI delivers projects from initial concept through to completion, providing clarity where decisions matter most.