Kitchen Extensions: Design Ideas & Costs UK
Transform your kitchen with a practical and stylish extension. Discover innovative design ideas, cost breakdowns, and essential planning advice for UK homes.
The kitchen is the heart of the home so it’s no surprise kitchen extensions are a top choice for UK homeowners. As our lifestyles change and we need more space, many are thinking about how to extend or upgrade their kitchens to improve their living.
A kitchen extension adds extra space to your existing kitchen and can create an open-plan living area. Common types are rear extensions, side returns and conservatories to allow for a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Knowing the different types of kitchen extensions from pitched roofs to orangeries will help you make informed decisions for your needs and wants. And navigating the planning permission and building regulations maze is key to a smooth renovation.
This guide will cover the different types of kitchen extensions, planning considerations, design ideas and costs so you’ll have all the information you need to create your dream kitchen.
Choosing the right type of kitchen extension can add to your living space and potentially the value of your home. Knowing the options and how they will work with your existing house is key. Common types are side-return extensions, single-storey rear extensions, pitched and flat roof extensions, orangeries and conservatories each with their own characteristics for different homes and lifestyles.
Pitched roof extensions are a smart way to add space to the back or side of your home. The pitched design mirrors the traditional look of the house and gives higher ceilings which makes the room feel more spacious. Plus they’re durable and have insulative benefits which can reduce energy bills. They cost more but their structure and charm make them a popular choice for many who want to invest in a long term solution for extra space.
For a modern look flat roof extensions offer clean lines and a sleek design, often at a lower cost than pitched roofs. The addition of skylights adds a modern touch and is practical too, bringing in natural light and making the kitchen feel brighter and more open. The simplicity of build can mean lower costs and timescales but maintenance should be factored into the budget. A flat roof kitchen extension can be a great way to create an open plan kitchen with a minimalist design.
Orangeries add a touch of luxury and history to kitchen extensions with their robust brickwork, large windows and glass roof feature. This classic design floods the interior with natural light and gives views of the garden, blurring the lines between indoors and out. Traditionally not used for kitchen appliances due to temperature control, orangeries are great for dining and can transform the feel of a home.
Traditionally made of glass, conservatories let the sunlight in to the new space, creating a bright and airy room that links the home to the garden. Less expensive than a solid brick extension, conservatories are a versatile extra space that can be part of the kitchen or a separate dining area. But temperature control can be a challenge so quality materials and good ventilation are key to making the space comfortable all year round.
When planning a kitchen extension you need to consider the costs of the extension and the complexity of the design. Planning permission may be required depending on where you live and the size of the project. Floor plans need to be carefully designed so the new kitchen extension works with the garden space and internal living space. With some thought and design a kitchen extension can be a great addition to your home, a functional and beautiful space to cook and socialise.
Starting a kitchen extension is the first step to making your dream home a reality. Begin with a wish list of how you want to use the space, whether its to improve your cooking experience, host social gatherings or a bit of both. Early consultation with a kitchen designer is key so you can have a well thought out plan that considers structural designs, plumbing, drainage and other practicalities.
Remember the average cost of a 10m² kitchen extension in the UK is around £45,000. This is based on recent material and labour price increases. Not all kitchen extensions need planning permission - many fall under permitted development rules which have specific guidelines. But do check if your project needs planning permission to avoid any legal issues.
From concept to completion can take several months. A average kitchen extension project can take anywhere from 3-6 months including design, getting permissions and build time. By having a solid plan of what you want to achieve from the extension you set the project up for success.
Getting planning permission is a crucial part of the kitchen extension process. Depending on your property and location you may need permission from local authorities. Use Permitted Development rights when you can but be aware of the limits and requirements.
A lawful development certificate will confirm the legality of your kitchen extension. You need to work with a loft conversion who knows the local regulations inside out. This is especially important if your property is in a Conservation Area or national park as standard permitted development rights may be more restricted or require planning permission regardless of the circumstances.
Building regulations are non negotiable. These rules ensure the kitchen extension is safe and sound. Before construction a Full Plans application should be submitted to the local authority.
Building regulations cover many aspects such as structural integrity, fall protection, wall safety and specific safety measures for electricity and gas. Fire protection and energy efficiency standards must also be met. A Building Control officer will visit the site during the project to check compliance with these regulations and guide the project to a safe and secure finish.
You need to have a budget upfront. A kitchen extension will cost around £30,000 but can vary. Regular budget reviews will help you check you're not overspending and adjust to stay in control.
A contingency budget is essential to cover any unexpected costs and to not compromise on the quality of the project. You should include costs for professional fees and high quality materials as these will reduce maintenance costs and make the project more cost effective in the long run.
The build phase of a kitchen extension will take around 8-16 weeks. The whole process from initial planning, permissions and build can take 12 months or more. The timeline will depend on getting permissions and the specifics of the design and build phases.
This timeline is just a guide and shows the importance of good planning and professional advice to get an efficient kitchen extension project.
Glass kitchen extensions with their modern sleek design are at the forefront of kitchen extension ideas. They are loved for bringing in loads of natural light and creating the illusion of more space. A glass kitchen extension with glazed doors will create a seamless flow between inside and out perfect for those who love to entertain in a indoor outdoor space.
Roof profiles are a key part of the many faceted nature of modern kitchen extensions. They can divide the extension into different areas for cooking, dining and relaxing and enhance the practicality and look of the floor plan. High ceilings will give the kitchen an airy feel and low ceilings will create an intimate space for dining.
Bespoke joinery and the choice of materials can also add character to your kitchen extension. Whether you want clean lines for a contemporary look or a more traditional feel these choices are personal to you and part of the overall design of your dream kitchen.
The transformation a kitchen extension can bring to a home is not just measured in square metres but also in the extra functionality and natural light that wraps around the space. By extending the kitchen by just 1 metre the space can be transformed from a narrow kitchen to an open plan kitchen that becomes the hub of the family home.
When the kitchen space is joined with the dining and living space perhaps by removing a rear wall the whole house feels bigger and more connected. This redefines not just the kitchen area but the heart of the home. Planning the kitchen layout is key to this transformation. Design concepts like the work triangle will maximise efficiency and introducing windows and skylights will ensure even with a large floor plan the space will feel comfortable and inviting.
Large skylights strategically placed in the kitchen extension design is key to bringing in more natural light and improving the ambiance and making the kitchen feel bigger. Glass sliding doors do the same job and also connect the kitchen to the outside and bring the outside in.
A side extension with skylights can turn a small and narrow kitchen into a light functional space for multiple uses. Make sure to position the extension to make the most of the natural light and the extension will remain bright and feel positive. Too much glazing will prevent the kitchen from feeling dark and enclosed as the space grows.
Open plan kitchen extensions are versatile and meet the modern need for more storage, more natural light and a space that reflects modern living. These spaces are linked together with cohesive materials and colour palettes to connect the new extension to the existing house and garden.
When designing an open plan kitchen the anthropometrics or human measurements of the space must be considered to ensure everyday functionality without having to use step stools. Kitchen islands and breakfast bars are the perfect solution as stylish and functional dividers within the open plan space, creating areas within the space while maintaining the overall sense of openness. Although open plan kitchens have many benefits it’s important to address the issues of noise and cooking smells which can be mitigated with clever partitioning and design.
A multi use kitchen extension is the ultimate central hub of the home where cooking, dining, socialising and relaxing all come together. With clever design these kitchen extensions can be a multi purpose space that balances style with functionality. This will not only improve the living experience but also add value to the home and be a sound investment.
Homeowners must keep in mind what they want to use the kitchen for, whether it’s a space to entertain and host or a peaceful space for family time. The flexibility of a well designed kitchen extension means the space can be tailored to many uses without sacrificing style or functionality.
Space design through clever kitchen extension design not only improves functionality but also the visual and flow of the home. By using different ceiling heights the design can break away from the traditional rectangular box and create a more dynamic and interesting space within the kitchen. Consideration should be given to the path of the sun to ensure the kitchen gets natural light all day and create a warm and inviting space. Skylights and roof lights can also bring in natural light to areas where side windows may not be possible due to architectural constraints or privacy.
The scope of a kitchen extension project can be vast and impact on the design and timeline. Factors such as the complexity of the floor plan, type of interior fit out, planning permission requirements and the relationship with the outdoor space can all influence the overall programme. A standard single storey kitchen extension can take around 12 weeks from start to finish assuming no delays.
An open plan kitchen extension is not a trend it’s a lifestyle choice that gives more storage and a beautiful play of light within a stylish design. The layout is key to creating a functional space that brings joy to cooking and socialising. The triangle rule is a guiding principle that keeps things efficient, connecting the sink, oven and fridge in a way that minimises movement. Thoughtful placement of islands and dining areas in relation to natural light sources can ensure comfort and functionality and avoid issues like glare.
For smaller kitchen extensions clever design is key. Features like fitted bench seating and multi use areas make the most of the space and high utility without sacrificing style. Working with a designer opens up many layout options that use the space creatively and to your personal taste and requirements.
Turning a narrow kitchen into a spacious, fully functional space is one of the biggest benefits of a kitchen extension. It should tie in with the existing home design and extend the overall look and functionality of the property. A well designed extension will cater for the kitchen needs but also the broader family and social activities and make every square foot count.
Skylights or roof lights can cleverly bring natural light into the heart of the kitchen space and enrich the atmosphere and user experience. By focusing on the kitchen triangle the layout makes it easy and convenient to move between the key areas, the food preparation and daily kitchen tasks.
Good design and good looks go hand in hand. The triangle rule is still key to kitchen efficiency and creating movement between the sink, oven and fridge. Personalised designs in kitchen extensions can cater to your needs, balance practicality with style.
Smart kitchen technology can transform the space and make it easier for homeowners to manage their kitchen. Consider space enhancing layouts like U-shaped or L-shaped can support movement and interaction in the kitchen and vaulted ceilings can give a sense of grandeur and openness in the kitchen.
A kitchen extension is an investment in the future, bringing designs that are flexible and adaptable to your changing lifestyle needs. As homes become offices and learning spaces, kitchen extensions have followed suit, becoming more multi functional to accommodate more uses. The work triangle is still the benchmark for productive kitchen design.
Make the most of natural light and use vertical space with features like glass panels and skylights to create an open and airy kitchen feel. Functional zoning is key to balance; it hides the clutter and showcases the design and will make the kitchen relevant for years to come.
When designing a kitchen extension you need to consider how the space will work for your current and future lifestyle needs. Designers are creating multi functional kitchen spaces that can be a home office or classroom, the adaptability of modern living spaces.
Functionality is key. By using layout strategies like the work triangle concept – where the cooker, fridge and sink are placed to create a smooth workflow – homeowners can have a functional and streamlined kitchen.
A well designed kitchen extension makes the most of natural light and vertical space, often with glass panels or skylights to create an open feel. This turns the kitchen into the heart of the home.
Proper zoning is also important, balancing style with practicality. By defining areas and hiding the clutter, focal points like sinks can be made less prominent and the clean lines of the modern kitchen design can be maintained.
To make a kitchen extension tick all these boxes homeowners should consider:
By addressing these areas the extended kitchen space will be future proof and a dream kitchen for now.
Expanding and enhancing a kitchen space can be a big and costly process. The cost of kitchen renovations varies depending on design choices, material quality and size and type of extension. Not having enough windows or glazed areas can make the space feel unwelcoming and dark even with more space, so incorporating natural light through carefully planned windows and doors is key to the design. Features like glass sliding doors and skylights cater for this need especially when a regular window installation is not possible, by flooding the interior space with light. And avoiding glare from light sources on islands or TVs is important to balance style with practicality.
Kitchen islands have become a must have feature in modern extensions where they combine function and form. As the focal point of the room they can serve many purposes – from food prep to an informal dining area or social space. Placing them beneath a lantern or large glazed area makes the most of natural light and allows the island to provide storage solutions. The cost of including an island in a renovation can be substantial and impact the overall budget. For example high end designs can push the total cost of a kitchen extension project to or even above £100,000. Kitchen extensions cost between £1,500 to £2,250 per square meter including the island and other features. A basic kitchen with standard features will cost around £1,320 to £1,620 per square meter, a high end kitchen with premium materials and features will cost between £1,800 to £2,500 per square meter. Kitchen fittings which include islands make up around 5% of the total project budget.
The choice of kitchen cabinets and appliances has a big impact on the overall cost of a kitchen extension. Full height cabinetry can provide streamlined storage and a clean design line across the kitchen and different finishes can match the homeowner’s style. Integrating appliances for a seamless look is another functionality bonus. Appliances are getting smarter with connectivity and advanced features becoming the norm in modern kitchen design. A basic kitchen with standard cabinets and appliances will start at around £10,000 but high end materials and smart appliance technology can add to these costs. For high end fittings and appliances the costs can exceed £100,000 especially in larger extensions. When calculating costs per square meter expect to see £1,320 for basic builds and £2,500 for top of the range installations. Also factor in the plumbing and integration of these appliances into the overall budget as these can add complexity and cost to the project.
In summary from kitchen islands to cabinets and smart appliances each design choice and feature impacts the cost of a kitchen extension. You need to plan and budget for these carefully to get your dream kitchen.
The cost of kitchen cabinets is a big part of any kitchen extension project and affects both the functionality and look of the kitchen. Full height upgraded kitchen cabinets provide lots of storage and clean lines for a modern kitchen design. These cabinets come in various finishes to suit traditional to contemporary styles to match the homeowner’s taste and affect the overall look of the kitchen.
Integrating appliances can add functionality to the kitchen and with smart kitchen technology on the rise modern appliances can blend into the cabinet design and make life easier. Remember the cost of adding a kitchen to an extension starts at around £10,000 for a basic design but can vary depending on the materials and appliances.
Basic builds are estimated to cost between £1,320 and £1,620 per square meter and higher quality builds between £1,700 and £2,500 per square meter. Smaller basic kitchen extensions can cost as little as £12,000 and larger high end kitchen projects can exceed £100,000. Other factors to consider are the plumbing especially if the extension includes a bathroom or kitchen as these areas require more detailed budgeting.
Good design and layout is key when considering a kitchen extension. The quality of workmanship is important not just for the functionality of the space but also for the overall finish and value of the property. Some brave homeowners may decide to manage the kitchen extension as a DIY project and save on labour costs but without the right skills can end up with a compromised end result. The benefits of professional input is the assurance of structural integrity, adherence to the latest design trends, clean lines and floor plans that maximise the use of space.
On the other hand managing a kitchen extension yourself gives you total control over the look and functionality of the kitchen space and the project timeline. The sense of pride and accomplishment of a DIY project should be weighed against the risks and complications that may arise especially if you have no construction or design experience. Remember also that planning permission may be required for some types of extensions and this process is easier to navigate with professionals.
A kitchen extension can add value to a property. Statistics show that a well designed and built extension can increase property value by 20-30%. However the actual uplift is subjective and can be affected by the build quality, design of the extension and how it ties in with the existing property and surrounding properties.
Homeowners can expect to get back around 70-80% of their kitchen extension costs when they sell the property but this can vary depending on the location of the property. Extensions in popular areas can get a higher return on investment as there is more demand. A single storey kitchen extension can add 5-10% to the property value and a two storey extension can add over 20% to the value, showing how big an extension can be for homeowners who are looking to sell in the future.
The current market trends show that there is a growing demand for kitchen spaces that cater to the home centric lifestyles driven by remote working. An open plan kitchen extension that combines living and dining spaces is very popular and adds to both social interaction and functionality. Kitchen extensions especially in prime areas like London can add 20-30% to the value of a property.
The cost of kitchen extensions varies across the UK from £25,000 to £35,000 and up to £55,000 in London as space is a premium in the capital. These costs per square meter are reflective of the quality and complexity of the build from basic extensions to high end finishes and modern kitchen appliances to suit various kitchen extension ideas.
When thinking of enhancements that can add value to a property through a kitchen extension, consider the following. A kitchen with a modern design and structural and functional integrity of the build are key to a big value increase. Adding bifold doors, glazed doors or skylights can bring in more natural light into the space and create an open plan kitchen that flows into the garden space.
Buyers love properties with practical and visual enhancements so a kitchen extension can make a property more saleable. An open plan kitchen that flows into a living or dining space gives the impression of luxury and space that is highly valuable in the property market.
From a resale perspective a kitchen extension can give a good return on investment sometimes within 10-30%. This value addition depends on the quality of finishes, how the extension ties in with the original property and the size and type of extension.
A kitchen extension that matches the rest of the property will appeal to potential buyers and maximize the extra space. Before starting a project homeowners should consult with estate agents to find out the price ceiling in their area so they can ensure the investment in a kitchen extension is in line with the resale value.
Homeowners often underestimate the cost of a kitchen extension. All too often the build and finish costs exceed the initial budget especially if no allowance is made for contingencies. While the average cost of a kitchen extension in the UK is £25,000 to £35,000 homeowners should be prepared for higher costs especially when it comes to heating, lighting and electrics.
You must budget fully for the area price per square meter, the complexity of the job and the type of kitchen being installed. Also factor in extra costs that may arise from construction delays, planning permission issues and unexpected issues with the existing property.
Expanding your kitchen can add both functionality and style. One of the best ways to do this is with a modern kitchen extension. By combining a kitchen extension with your rear garden you can create a flow between indoor and outdoor living spaces.
When designing your kitchen extension think about how the design will affect the back wall of your original house. Removing or altering internal walls can open up the space to fit a larger dining table and more square footage for kitchen units and other elements. Bifold doors can be a great addition, giving flexibility and bringing in natural light into your new kitchen area.
In your new kitchen extension the kitchen window placement should be designed to maximise the view of your rear garden and bring in plenty of natural light. By planning the kitchen walls and choosing modern design elements you can create a kitchen that is both beautiful and functional and make the most of the extra usable space.
Don’t forget party wall agreements and boundary walls in the planning. This will ensure any structural changes comply with the regulations and avoid neighbour disputes.
Choosing the right builder is key to a successful home extension. At Danesfort we deliver quality on time and on budget. We have extensive experience working on home extensions in the London area.
Danesfort ensures all projects comply with planning permissions and building regulations. We offer clear contracts that outline scope, timelines and payment terms so you’re fully informed from start to finish.
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