Returning Home: Gilnahirk House Extension, Belfast

Returning to the lovely Gilnahirk, where I grew up and which still feels like home, was truly wonderful. I had the pleasure of helping Mrs C enhance and expand her detached bungalow with major improvements — a project that blended nostalgia with modern design and efficiency.

Within just two weeks of my appointment, both the Planning Application and Building Control Application were submitted. How fast was that? Faster than lightning — and exactly what my client wanted: to get things moving as quickly as possible!

Modern single‑storey house extension in Gilnahirk, Belfast, designed by GT Building Design, featuring warm off‑white render, anthracite grey frames, and paved patio.

Client Feedback

“Within a tight time frame Glenn worked quickly and efficiently to draw up plans for a beautifully designed single‑storey extension to my bungalow. He was very professional, patient and helpful at all times, dealing promptly with any queries. He kept me informed throughout the whole process, and I was really delighted with his service.”

Alwyn Corrin - 5 Stars on Google ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Corner view of modern house extension in Gilnahirk, Belfast, designed by GT Building Design.

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Project Overview - Gilnahirk House Extension

The alterations to this detached bungalow in Gilnahirk, Belfast included a full extension and refurbishment, designed to modernise the home and improve comfort and energy efficiency:

• Garden Room extension, open‑plan to Kitchen & Dining

• Large Velux flat‑glass rooflight to flood the space with natural daylight

• Bathroom conversion to WC / Shower (wet room) with walk‑in shower

• Full rewire and relocation of electrical box

• New heating system — conversion from oil to gas

• New damp‑proof course

• Dry‑lining and insulation to existing cavity walls

• New PVC guttering and fascia boards

• New paving to provide level threshold outside the extension

• Re‑rendered external walls in warm off‑white

• Insulated ground floors and attic ceiling

• Removal of existing fireplace and chimney breast

Architectural drawings by GT Building Design showing proposed front, side, and rear elevations plus sectional views for a single‑storey house extension and refurbishment in Gilnahirk, Belfast.

Design Highlights

The new Garden Room extension creates a bright, welcoming space that connects seamlessly to the kitchen and dining area.

The flat‑glass rooflight floods the interior with daylight, while the warm white render and anthracite frames give the exterior a crisp, modern finish.

This Gilnahirk house extension and refurbishment demonstrates how thoughtful design and efficient planning can transform a traditional Belfast bungalow into a contemporary, energy‑efficient home.

Architectural floor plan by GT Building Design showing layout for a Gilnahirk house extension and refurbishment — including new garden room, dining area with rooflight, kitchen, lounge, three bedrooms, and WC / shower.

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Why Choose GT Building Design

With over 40 years’ experience in residential design, I help homeowners plan extensions, conversions and internal alterations with clear drawings, practical guidance and a smooth, well‑managed process from first ideas through to approval.

I work with homeowners across North Down, Greater Belfast and the surrounding towns, supporting a wide range of projects — from small internal changes to full house extensions and larger home improvements.

You can explore my services below:

• House Extensions

• Loft Conversions  

• Garage Conversions  

• Internal Alterations

If you’re planning a home extension or thinking about improving your layout, you’re welcome to get in touch and talk through your ideas. A calm, practical chat at the start can often make the whole process much easier.