High Trees — South Shields, Tyne & Wear

Project Overview

Grays Signature Builds were commissioned to add a full-length bedroom extension above an existing garage at a family home in High Trees, South Shields. The brief combined architectural sensitivity with practical requirements: create an additional bedroom, introduce a separate home office, and improve upstairs circulation and daylight — all while keeping the ground-floor garage and utility spaces in full use.

Client brief & objectives

The client asked for an elegant, durable extension that complemented the existing home, provided flexible family space, and delivered a quiet, well-lit office for remote working. Our approach prioritised minimal disruption, robust weatherproofing, energy efficiency and finishes that suit modern family life.

What we delivered

The project delivered a practical set of outcomes designed for everyday use and long-term value:

• Full-length bedroom extension with structural support and seamless roof tie-in.
• Remodelled landing and circulation to improve natural light and movement between rooms.
• Dedicated home office with power/data provision and acoustic considerations for privacy.
• Complete internal fit-out including plastering, insulation, heating, electrics, bespoke joinery and decorating.
• Protective phasing and site management to keep the ground floor operational during works.

Challenges & our solutions

Working above an existing garage required careful load-path analysis and temporary protection for utilities. We coordinated structural calculations with a consulting engineer, staged the work to limit downtime, and used protective boarding and temporary services routing to keep the home functioning.

To maximise natural light in the new spaces we specified energy-efficient rooflights and high-performance glazing oriented to reduce glare while increasing daylight. Acoustic insulation was used where the office adjoins high-traffic areas.

Materials, sustainability & performance

Materials were chosen to be robust, locally-sourced where available, and to meet current thermal-performance guidance. Key elements included treated timber framing, cavity insulation to current U-value recommendations, breathable membranes to avoid condensation risk and low-maintenance external finishes.

We also specified LED lighting and efficient heating components to keep running costs lower for occupants — small design choices that improve comfort and ongoing value.

Project impact & homeowner benefits

Post-completion the family gained an additional bedroom and a dedicated home office — both spaces designed for flexible use (guest space, study, or nursery). The work improved the day-to-day usability of the home, increased market appeal and was completed with minimal disruption to the household.