Roseneath Road, Urmston, Manchester

Consider extendingWhen we think of an extension, we tend to picture enlarging the kitchen and creating a huge open-plan space with wall-to-wall bifold doors.But a mini extension – making use of a side return without knocking through, for example – can, arguably, be put to far more practical use, especially if you’re otherwise happy with your ground floor layout. It should cost less, too. Here, a downstairs loo, a micro utility area and cupboard, and bike storage (see next photo) have been packed into a relatively small space that opens, modestly, onto the back garden.

Mini utility area with lighting

Downstairs toilet and shower room converting from the maids room

Perhaps have downstairs toilet off of utility?

Variety of colours might break up the small space better?