Maybe your family’s growing. Maybe the layout just never quite worked. Maybe you’ve always imagined an open-plan kitchen that spills out into the garden.
Whatever’s pulling you towards change, one thing’s for sure: you don’t need to move to make your home work better for you.
At Harbour Construction, we specialise in house extensions, renovations and alterations across Cornwall that feel like a natural next chapter – not a departure from everything you love. Whether you’re in a coastal cottage with charm to protect or a 90s build in need of flow and function, we bring fresh thinking and fine craftsmanship to help your home grow with you.
Rediscover the Potential of Your Home
Over time, the way we live shifts. What once felt right starts to feel cramped, awkward or outdated.
You’re not alone. Many of our clients come to us feeling stuck, emotionally attached to their home but frustrated by its limitations. Rooms that don’t connect. Kitchens cut off from family life. Drafts that sneak in where they shouldn’t.
But here’s the thing: beneath every odd corner or tired surface, there’s usually something worth keeping.
We don’t always believe in bulldozing. We often believe in working with what’s already there – and bringing out its best. By focusing on what matters to you, we ensure the result is more than just a better house, it’s a better way of living.
Why Stay? Because Cornwall Isn't Just a Location
It’s the well-rehearsed school run. The views you’ll never trade. The neighbours who water your plants.
Moving often feels like too big a price to pay for more space. That’s why our designs are rooted in solving problems, not starting over. From Padstow to Polzeath, we help homeowners stay put – and fall in love with their homes all over again.
Extension or Renovation – or Both?
You don’t need to know the difference before you call us – but here’s a quick guide:
Home Extensions
A well-executed extension shouldn’t feel like an add-on. It should feel like it’s always been there.These are about adding space – building out or up. Think:
- A bigger kitchen-diner with garden views
- A new upstairs bedroom or ensuite
- A ground-floor annexe for relatives
Home Renovations & Alterations
These are about reshaping what you’ve already got – from reconfiguring layouts and knocking through walls to restoring original features. You might:
- Turn a closed-off kitchen into a sociable hub
- Rework your flow to suit family life
- Update old wiring, heating or insulation
- Restore period charm that’s been lost over the years
Many projects blend all three – and that’s exactly where we come in.
We take time to understand the architectural language of your home – its materials, rooflines, proportions and quirks – so that your extension feels like a natural continuation, not an afterthought. Whether you're in a coastal cottage near Padstow, a 1930s semi in Bude, or a townhouse in Wadebridge, we ensure the design speaks your home’s language.
We’ll help you with:
- Selecting materials and finishes to complement the existing property
- Integrating indoor-outdoor flow, light, and layout
- Sustainability upgrades like insulation, glazing, and ventilation
We build for your life now, and what’s ahead.
Renovating Your Home in Cornwall
Some homes carry stories you don’t want to rewrite. Many of our clients choose to renovate rather than rebuild for the following reasons:
Emotional and historical value
Some homes carry generations of memories or architectural charm that shouldn’t be erased. Renovating allows you to protect that story.
Easier planning permissions
Particularly in conservation areas or listed buildings, renovation avoids the red tape of a full rebuild.
Cost efficiency
If your home has good bones, renovation is often more affordable than demolishing and starting from scratch.
Less disruption
Renovations can often be phased or allow for partial occupancy during the works.
Environmental impact
Renovating is more sustainable, reducing construction waste and making use of existing materials and structure.
Targeted transformation
You can keep what works, fix what doesn’t, and completely reshape how you live.
Renovation isn’t just about modernising. It’s about listening to the house, and to you.
What's Included in Our Home Renovation Service?
We offer comprehensive renovation solutions in North Cornwall that blend the best of old and new. Every project is tailored, but typical property renovations include:
Structural Improvements
Removing or relocating walls to improve flow, light, and space
Layout Reconfiguration
Open-plan conversions, room resizing, or new functional zones
System Upgrades
Modern plumbing, heating, electrics, and insulation
Heritage-Sensitive Work
Repair or replication of period features (sash windows, coving, fireplaces)
Energy Efficiency Improvements
Draught-proofing, sustainable insulation, smart heating controls
Interior Finishes
Flooring, tiling, lighting, and built-in storage to suit your lifestyle
Kitchen and Bathroom Modernisation
...or full redesigns, if required
Why Choose Harbour Construction?
We don’t just build. We listen to your plans, design, solve, and deliver.
Integrated Design & Build
Architects, trades, and project managers working together from the start
Planning Confidence
Especially in tricky conservation zones and coastal areas
Craftsmanship That Lasts
Thoughtful, careful, human-centred building
Local Insight
We know Cornwall’s quirks, from tight lanes to sea air to storm resilience
Based in North Cornwall, we understand the materials, landscapes, and regulations unique to the area. We also offer a true end-to-end service. From early construction planning through to finish and handover, we handle every detail. And throughout it all, we remain committed to a sustainable approach – using energy-efficient systems, recycling waste responsibly, and prioritising quality over quantity.
How We Work
We know building works can feel daunting. That’s why we keep things clear and collaborative from day one:
- Consultation – A detailed site visit to understand your home, lifestyle and hopes.
- Feasibility & Design – Practical, creative planning with experts on hand.
- Transparent Quote & Timeline – No guesswork, no surprises.
- Build & Deliver – Respectful, well-managed construction from start to finish.
- Handover – Clean, complete, and ready to enjoy.
Need to live on-site during works? We’ll plan around you to minimise stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need planning permission?
Some extensions and renovations fall under permitted development, but listed buildings or exterior changes may require consent. We can recommend some excellent planning advisors, should you need advice.
Can I live in my home during the work?
Often yes. We can work in phases, seal off areas, and plan around your needs.
What if you uncover structural issues?
We plan with contingencies and will always communicate promptly if anything unexpected arises.
Can you replicate original features?
Yes. We work with skilled craftspeople to restore or recreate period features like fireplaces and coving.
Is there a minimum project size or budget?
We would love to hear about your plans - a short consultation will help us guide you.
Will my home be protected during the build?
Yes. We use dust barriers, temporary protections, and work in stages to minimise disruption
Let’s Build the Space You Need
Let’s start with what you already have – and build from there.
Stay rooted in the home you already love. A well-executed renovation or extension is more than just a face-lift; it’s a way to unlock your property’s full potential. Whether you’re renovating a well-loved family home, extending to fit your future, or finally fixing what’s never felt quite right, we’ll help you shape a space that works for how you live today.
Get in touch today to book your consultation.
Your home’s next chapter starts here.
