A well-planned kitchen extension can significantly increase a property’s appeal and value, making it an excellent investment. Understanding the typical kitchen extension costs in the UK will help you make informed decisions, ensuring the project aligns with your expectations and budget. In this guide, we’ll give you a detailed kitchen extension cost breakdown, whether you’re looking to make some minor adjustments or a significant transformation.
We'll cover the following topics in this pricing guide:
- Average kitchen extension costs
- How much do kitchen supplies cost?
- How long does a kitchen extension take?
- How to reduce kitchen extension costs
- Understanding how a kitchen extension could affect your home's market value
- Plan your kitchen extension with MyBuilder's trusted professionals
- FAQ
- Your kitchen extension checklist
Average kitchen extension costs
The cost of a kitchen extension in the UK can vary significantly based on various factors, including size, location, design, materials used, fixtures added and finishes. On average, costs can range from £12,000 for a basic extension in a small kitchen to upwards of £100,000 or more for more luxurious, extensive work on an ample space. A standard kitchen extension costs around £26,000 to £34,000 for a medium-sized kitchen. However, this can increase, especially in London and the southeast, where prices are likely to be higher than in other parts of the country.
Some kitchen extension cost examples are shown in the table below. However, please remember that these figures are averages, and actual costs can be higher or lower depending on the project's specifics. Always consider sourcing multiple quotes and bear in mind these costs are subject to change based on the individual project requirements and market conditions.
| Extension Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Basic kitchen extension – small | £12,000 to £16,000 |
| Basic kitchen extension – medium | £19,000 to £26,000 |
| Basic kitchen extension – large | £38,000 to £52,000 |
| Average kitchen extension – small | £19,000 to £26,000 |
| Average kitchen extension – medium | £26,000 to £34,000 |
| Average kitchen extension – large | £52,000 to £67,000 |
| Deluxe kitchen extension – small | £21,000 to £30,000 |
| Deluxe kitchen extension – medium | £34,000 to £48,000 |
| Deluxe kitchen extension – large | £67,000 to £100,000 |
Kitchen extension cost per m2
The cost of a kitchen extension per square metre (m2) can vary depending on various factors such as quality, location, the complexity of the design, materials used and labour costs.
But to give you a rough idea, a straightforward kitchen build will usually cost around £1,320 to £1,620 per m2, while a good-quality build would be around £1,700 to £2,000 per m2. An excellent, high-quality build would set you back around £1,800 to £2,500 per m2.
How much do kitchen supplies cost?
When planning your kitchen extension, it’s essential to be aware of the supply costs. You'll pay these prices for all the materials and fixtures required for your project, which don’t include the labour costs for installation. Kitchen supplies might be kitchen construction materials, cabinets, countertops or fixtures.
Hiring a professional to fit your kitchen supplies offers substantial benefits. Their expertise ensures high-quality, efficient installations, reducing the risk of errors that can occur with DIY attempts. Expert extension builders are skilled at handling complex tasks and adhering to building codes, and they can often source materials at a better rate than you might be able to. They also often provide warranties for their work, giving you long-term security and peace of mind.
While this route may have a higher up-front cost, the investment often pays off in the durability and finish of the work, not to mention the time and effort saved on your part. If you need help choosing the right tradesperson for the job, have a look at our guide for hiring home extension builders.
Here are some standard supply prices you can expect to pay when extending your kitchen:
| Type of Supplies | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Basic kitchen units | £3,000 to £5,800 |
| Average kitchen units | £4,300 to £7,600 |
| Deluxe kitchen units | £5,100 to £10,300 |
| Basic kitchen worktops | £20 to £40 m² |
| Average kitchen worktops | £75 to £200 m² |
| Deluxe kitchen worktops | £300 to £500 m² |
| Washing machine | £200 to £500 |
| Oven | £300 to £800 |
| Hob | £100 to £400 |
| Cooker hood | £200 to £500 |
| Dishwasher | £300 to £600 |
| Fridge freezer | £200 to £800 |
| Basic flooring | £10 to £30 m² |
| Average flooring | £30 to £60 m² |
| Deluxe flooring | £50 to £100 m² |
| Wall décor | £20 to £50 m² |
| Windows | £200 to £600 each |
| External door | £400 to £900 |
| Internal door | £50 to £300 |
Cost of light fittings
Choosing the right light fittings is essential during a kitchen extension and can impact your budget. The average cost for installing new light fittings is around £80 to £200, including labour costs.
Cost of radiator fittings
When extending a kitchen, you may need to incorporate new radiator fittings to heat the extra space available and maintain a comfortable temperature. The cost of replacing a radiator varies from around £200 to £300.
Cost of window installation
Incorporating new windows into a kitchen extension offers more natural light and ventilation, with costs ranging from around £200 to £600. Remember, installation costs increase with complexity, so factor this into your budget for a well-lit and airy kitchen space.
How long does a kitchen extension take?
The time it takes to complete a kitchen extension in the UK can vary, with a typical range being from five to ten weeks. The timeframe can depend on the scale and complexity of the project, as well as factors such as planning permission, the speed of work from contractors and the extent of the design and finishings. It's best to consult with your hired contractors for a more accurate timeline based on the specifics of your kitchen extension.
How to reduce kitchen extension costs
Reducing kitchen extension costs can be achieved with careful planning and some hands-on involvement.
Here are some tips to minimise expenses:
- Set a clear budget: Know your limits when it comes to spending and stick to them.
- Plan extensively: Avoid costly changes mid-project by having a detailed plan.
- Compare quotes: Source multiple quotes for the work to ensure competitive pricing. We recommend requesting around three.
- Choose affordable materials: Opt for cost-effective materials that offer durability and aesthetic appeal.
- Consider partial DIY: Take on some tasks yourself, such as painting or simple installations.
- Reuse materials and fixtures: Use existing appliances or cabinetry when possible; not everything has to be new.
- Time your project: Schedule during off-peak seasons for potential contractor discounts.
Understanding how a kitchen extension could affect your home's market value
A kitchen extension can greatly increase your home's value by creating additional living space and updating one of the most important areas of the home. Modern buyers often seek open-plan kitchens that are ideal for daily living and entertaining, making such extensions highly attractive.
High-quality finishes, modern appliances, and thoughtful design can make your kitchen extension stand out, leading to a higher sale price and a quicker sale. Improving the overall flow and usability of your home with features like natural light and ample storage can also boost its value.
However, it's essential to balance the cost of the extension with the potential increase in property value. Consult local estate agents to understand what improvements are most sought after in your area to ensure your project aligns with market demands.
In summary, a well-designed and executed kitchen extension can significantly enhance your home's market value by adding desirable features and additional space, making your property more appealing to buyers.
Plan your kitchen extension with MyBuilder's trusted professionals
Opting for a professional to oversee your project not only ensures a seamless integration with your existing structure but also guarantees compliance with all relevant building codes. With MyBuilder, finding a reliable and qualified extension builder near you becomes a straightforward task. By posting your job for free, you can quickly connect with experts in your area. Within just 24 hours, you'll receive quotes, allowing you to compare costs and timelines. Make the first step towards your dream kitchen today, and let MyBuilder match you with the perfect professional.
FAQ
Do I need planning permission for a kitchen extension?
Generally, you won't need planning permission for a kitchen extension if it falls within permitted development guidelines. For compliance, the extension shouldn’t be taller than four metres and must not extend beyond six metres from the rear of an attached property or eight metres for a detached house. Additionally, the build should be single storey and occupy no more than half the size of the land around the original house.
If you’re unsure, contacting your local council is the best way to confirm that your extension is considered a permitted development. And remember, a party wall agreement may be necessary for attached properties. Regardless of property type, Building Regulations approval is a must to ensure safety and standards are met.
What are some popular types of kitchen extensions?
There are several types of kitchen extensions that homeowners can consider. A rear kitchen extension is a popular choice, extending directly into the garden and often incorporating large glass doors or skylights to enhance natural light. A side return kitchen extension is ideal for terraced homes, using the narrow space that typically runs alongside the property to create a more spacious, L-shaped kitchen. Lastly, the wrap-around extension combines both rear and side return extensions, dramatically increasing space and providing the opportunity for a significant kitchen transformation into an expansive, open-plan area.
What type of contractors would I need for a kitchen extension?
Depending on the scope of your kitchen extension, you may need a whole team of specialised contractors to bring your vision to life. This team could include a structural engineer to ensure the integrity of the design, a builder to manage construction and a kitchen installer to fit your chosen units. You might also need a carpenter for custom woodwork, a plasterer for smooth walls, a window fitter for natural light installations and a roofer to protect the extension from the elements. When it comes to aesthetics, an interior designer can help harmonise style and functionality, while a painter and decorator can give the finishing touches to your kitchen's look.
Your kitchen extension checklist
Planning a kitchen extension requires a structured approach for the best results. Here's a checklist to guide you:
- Decide on your ideal kitchen: Begin with a wish list of features and styles you admire.
- Establish a budget: Determine how much you can spend to guide the project's scope.
- Check planning permissions: Verify if your extension requires approvals to avoid legal hurdles.
- Choose an extension type: Decide whether you'll go for a rear, side return or wrap around extension.
- Design your space: Speak with a designer to plan the kitchen's layout and look.
- Plan your layout: Consider the workflow and space use for efficiency and comfort.
- Contract the right team: Find and hire reliable contractors for construction, plumbing, and electrical work.
- Set a timeline: Outline a realistic schedule for the project, including milestones and a desired completion date. And remember, the timeline is likely to be highly dependent on your contracting team’s availability.
Finding a professional extension specialist is free, easy and quick with MyBuilder. Simply share the details of your project on our platform, and anyone available, qualified and interested can reach out.