Hi all,
Thank you so much for all the helpful comments. I thought I'd update you on where we've got to so far and get your thoughts.
Below are the proposed front elevation and floorplan drawings from our architect. We're currently working on the basis that we'll need to split the work into two phases: step one being to extend to the rear and make the internal changes, and step two being to potentially add the porch/changed roofline out front if and when we have the money.
You'll see that we recognised the point several people raised, which was that extending to the rear would be simplest way to open up the space and get in the necessary downstairs loo so that my mother in law (who's in a wheelchair) can use the loo/shower when she visits.
I still think that the wet room entrance on the right will be tight for wheelchair access. In case you can't see the tiny writing on the plan, the walkway from the utility to the wetroom is 1m at the thinnest point. That said, it's hard to see how to make access easier. Would a sliding door perhaps help?
Q
drop zone for keys
Q