A kitchen extension is the most common reason people extend their homes. It creates a bright, sociable space for cooking, dining and family life. This guide covers layouts, ideas and realistic costs.
Prices are typical UK ranges and depend on size, specification and location. They are guides, not quotes.
How much does a kitchen extension cost?
There are two parts to the budget:
- The building work (foundations, walls, roof, glazing, floor, electrics, plastering): roughly £1,500–£2,500 per square metre. A 20–30 m² extension is therefore about £30,000–£75,000.
- The kitchen itself: from around £8,000 for a basic fitted kitchen to £25,000 or much more for high-end units, worktops and appliances.
Add design fees, structural engineering, planning and building regulations fees, plus a contingency of 10–15%. See our full extension cost guide.
Popular layouts
Rear extension
Extending across the back of the house opens the kitchen onto the garden. It is the most common choice for terraced and semi-detached homes.
Side return extension
Many Victorian terraces have a narrow alley at the side. Infilling it widens the kitchen at a lower cost than a full rear extension.
L-shaped (wraparound) extension
Combining a rear and side-return extension creates a large open-plan space and may give extra utility or boot room.
Kitchen-diner-living space
Knock through to the old dining room or lounge for a single open-plan family room.
Design ideas that work
- Large glazed doors (sliding or bi-fold) to connect with the garden
- A roof lantern or rooflights to bring light into the deep middle of the plan
- A central island with seating and storage
- Zones: cooking, dining and relaxing areas defined by layout and lighting
- Underfloor heating under tiles or engineered wood
- A utility or pantry to hide mess and appliances
- Good ventilation: powerful extraction and openable windows
Costs for common extras
Roughly, and varying widely:
- Sliding or bi-fold doors: £3,000–£10,000+
- Roof lantern or large rooflights: £2,000–£8,000+
- Underfloor heating: £1,000–£3,000+ for water systems in a typical kitchen
- Steel beams for opening up: see removing a load-bearing wall
Things to check before you start
- Planning: Many single-storey rear extensions are permitted development, but not all. See planning permission for extensions.
- Building regulations: required for almost every extension. See building regulations.
- Drainage: a manhole or drain may sit where you want to build.
- Party walls: if you are building next to a neighbour, see party wall agreements.
- Timeline: see how long does an extension take?
Living without a kitchen
Plan a temporary kitchen in another room for several weeks. A microwave, kettle and portable hob cover most needs.
Planning your kitchen extension in Newport
Abron Contracting builds extensions in Newport and can help you work out the right size and budget. Contact us or call 01633379170.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a kitchen extension cost in the UK?
A typical kitchen extension costs about £30,000–£75,000 for the building work (20–30 m²), plus the kitchen itself from about £8,000 to £25,000 or more.
Do I need planning permission for a kitchen extension?
Many single-storey rear extensions fall under permitted development, but check limits, local restrictions and Welsh rules with the council.
How big should a kitchen extension be?
Many families aim for 20–30 m² to fit a kitchen, dining table and seating. Bigger is not always better, so test layouts with plans.
How long does a kitchen extension take?
Often around 8–12 weeks on site for a typical single-storey extension, plus design and approval time beforehand.
Is a kitchen extension worth it?
It can improve how you use your home and may add value, but the return depends on the local market and quality of work.
