The Most Popular Home Upgrades in West Sussex & Hampshire Right Now
- Emma Hannay

- Oct 23
- 3 min read
If you’ve been thinking about improving your home, you’re not alone. Across West Sussex, Hampshire and Surrey, homeowners are investing in upgrades that add space, comfort and value — often instead of moving.
From kitchen extensions to loft conversions and garden rooms, planning applications across the South have one thing in common: people are making their homes work better for modern life.
Here’s a look at the most popular home improvements we’re seeing right now — and how Rogate Construction can help make them happen.
Extensions – Still the Most Popular Home Upgrade
Whether it’s opening up the back of the house for a larger kitchen or adding a light-filled dining area, extensions remain the number one choice for homeowners.
Most projects are single-storey rear or side extensions, often designed to create open-plan spaces with bi-fold doors leading to the garden.
Why they’re so popular:
They add real, usable space without needing to move
Perfect for growing families or entertaining
Often fall under permitted development (meaning planning can be simpler)
At Rogate Construction, we’ve built countless extensions across Hampshire and West Sussex — from traditional brick builds that blend with period homes to sleek, modern spaces full of glass and light. We work closely with local architects to ensure every project complements the original property and meets planning standards.

Loft Conversions – Turning Roof Space into Living Space
A loft conversion is one of the most cost-effective ways to add an extra bedroom, office or en-suite without changing your home’s footprint.
Many local councils are seeing a steady rise in planning applications for dormers and roof alterations — a clear sign of how popular they’ve become.
Why homeowners love them:
Make use of wasted space
Often don’t require planning permission
Add value without changing the look of your home from the street
At Rogate Construction, we handle everything from the structural alterations to the staircase design, ensuring your new loft feels like a natural part of the home — not an afterthought.

Garden Rooms & Outbuildings – The New Way to Add Space
Since more of us now work from home or want flexible spaces for hobbies, garden rooms and outbuildings have become hugely popular.
Whether it’s a home office, gym, studio or a relaxing retreat away from the main house, these self-contained spaces can often be built without full planning permission, provided they meet size and location limits.
Rogate Construction has completed a range of beautifully detailed garden builds — insulated, connected to power, and ready to use all year round. We can also handle the groundwork, services, and landscaping for a complete finish.

Infill & Small Extensions – Subtle Changes, Big Results
Not every upgrade needs to be large-scale. Infill extensions — for example, filling in a side return or extending a small kitchen — can transform how a home feels.
They’re ideal for character cottages or listed homes where larger additions might not suit the style or be permitted by the planning authority.
Our team has extensive experience with heritage properties in and around the South Downs National Park, where design sensitivity is key. We liaise directly with local building control and conservation officers to ensure everything is done right first time.

Glazing & Door Upgrades – Bringing the Outside In
Large windows, bi-folds, and sliding doors continue to top the wish-lists of homeowners across the South. These changes make rooms feel brighter, more connected to the garden, and visually modern.
Even when full planning permission isn’t needed, professional installation and detailing are essential for long-term energy performance and weatherproofing.
Rogate Construction can advise on suitable glazing systems and ensure installations are completed to high standards — whether part of a larger build or as a standalone project.

Why Homeowners Across Hampshire & West Sussex Choose Rogate Construction
At Rogate Construction, we’ve built our reputation on quality workmanship, friendly communication, and making home improvements as stress-free as possible.
We handle everything from initial site meetings to final finishes, working with trusted local designers and trades. Our team takes care of the details — so you can focus on enjoying your upgraded home.
If you’re planning a project in Petersfield, Midhurst, Haslemere, or surrounding areas, get in touch to discuss your ideas. Whether it’s an extension, loft conversion or complete renovation, we’re here to help make it happen.




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