Creating a sociable space that is both functional and attractive is key for many homeowners wanting to extend their kitchen.

While there is a lot that goes in to planning a kitchen extension, like sorting your budget and finding the right builder, deciding on some of the key design elements can be one of the most exciting parts of the process.

A popular kitchen extension idea to add to the wish list is a rooflight, but they don't always come cheap and so you'll need to be sure it's the right solution for your space before you part with your cash.

To help you decide, we've spoken to kitchen and interior design experts about the key benefits a rooflight can offer in your home.

1. Rooflights can make a smaller kitchen extension feel bigger

One of the best things about adding a roof window to your kitchen extension, be it a rooflight or a roof lantern, is that it can make the space feel bigger, even if your extension is only small. And you can double the impact by including bifold or sliding doors in the design too.

Al Bruce, founder of Olive & Barr, says: 'Allowing natural light through bi-folds and rooflights can make the room feel airy and spacious, making it a comfortable and enjoyable space to cook and entertain.'

Larger expanses of glass blur the boundaries between indoors and out, drawing the eye beyond the roof and walls, which gives the illusion of a much bigger space. This can be incredibly effective in homes with a small footprint, or where you are adding a relatively small amount of space, like with a side return extension.

2. Rooflights can maximise natural light

When you think about building an extension, you need to remember that adding more space will move windows and patio doors further away from the centre of the original structure. This means it's harder for natural light to make its way deeper into your home's floorplan, leaving existing spaces dark. But by putting a window overhead for maximum light ingress, you will make the most of the daylight hours.

You might also find that you options for bringing in natural light in other ways can be constrained. This can be hugely disappointing when you've gone to the effort and expense of an extension.

But this can be avoided as Gareth Davies, design director at Classic Interiors, explains: 'A rooflight can brighten a kitchen and make the space feel larger, especially in side or rear extensions where natural light is limited. Placement is key - too much overhead glazing can cause glare and overheating, so solar control glass or blinds may be needed to keep light levels comfortable.'

3. Rooflights can be a solution to privacy issues

If you have neighbours close by, there may be limitations as to where you can include windows in your kitchen extension design to ensure privacy remains intact. (Always check the rules around Permitted Development before you extend to make sure your design fits the criteria. If not, you may have to apply for planning permission).

But with cleverly placed rooflights, you can sidestep any overlooking concerns and still make sure your new space feels light and bright.

4. Rooflights can be key to wow-factor kitchen extensions

If you're spending tens of thousands of pounds on a kitchen extension, you want it to look great. For many, one of the best moments of a significant home improvement projects is when friends and family are wowed when they see it for the first time.

Rooflights definitely contribute to that, especially when their strategic placement makes the most of the light and sky views.

For maximum impact, a roof lantern (or even two) installed in a flat roof can be an epic design feature in their own right.

5. Reduce your energy usage with a rooflight in a kitchen extension

While rooflights can be a good choice from an appearance point of view, they can also help to reduce your home's energy usage. This is because improved natural light reduces reliance on artificial lighting, which means you can use less electricity.

On sunny days you could also benefit from solar heating, although you will need to be cautious. Solar heating can be lovely when temperatures are lower, but could quickly turn into overheating in the summer. Speak to a range of rooflight suppliers to choose the right option, including any special coatings, for your home and needs.

FAQs

What are the disadvantages of a rooflight?

While there undoubtedly some promising advantages of rooflights, you should always consider if they are actually the right choice for your home.

Jessica-Ruth Smith, owner and lead designer at Studio Smith Interior Design, says that while rooflights 'do solve some problems around lighting in the spaces further away from rear windows, and can add some ventilation in the summer' they do 'come with a pretty hefty price tag, and you have to be really committed to your cleaning schedule to keep them looking beautiful.'

Glass can also make rooms much warmer in the summer, so if you don't want your space to overheat, you'll need to choose special coatings or blinds to provide a bit of relief in the hotter months.

From a cost point of view, non-standard sizes or finishes will up the price you pay, and rooflights that open will be more expensive than fixed alternatives. If you want automated rooflights, that will be additional cost too.

'As with all design choices, it really depends on the individual circumstances,' concludes Jessica-Ruth, 'but I think with a good lighting plan there are certainly some alternatives that are worth exploring.'

To bring in even more daylight and make the most of garden views, a picture window could be well worth considering too.

Would your dream kitchen extension include a rooflight? Let us know in the comments below

Taking on substantial home improvements can be an expensive task. And when you're working with a small pot, it's even more important that you spend it wisely to get the results you want. And that means avoiding common mistakes that could send your project costs soaring.

When it comes to extending your kitchen on a budget, there are lots of tactics you can utilise to keep costs under control. But while it's absolutely worth understanding what you should do, it's equally important to understand what you shouldn't.

We've spoken to numerous kitchen design experts to curate this list of errors to avoid if you want to keep a handle on your kitchen extension budget.

1. Taking on DIY beyond your skillset

When you are planning a kitchen extension, a really good way to keep costs as low as possible is to do as much of it as you can yourself.

However, this can quickly become a false economy if you undertake tasks that are beyond your capabilities as a DIYer. You could not only end up being completely dissatisfied with the end result, but you could potentially cause damage or problems that prove seriously costly to put right.

2. Scrimping on your builder

Cost cutting when it comes to your builder can be a dangerous move. Finding a good builder is crucial to project success, and they will be capable of bringing your project in on time and budget, and will be able to help find cost-effective solutions where needed.

Debra Hutt, kitchen design expert at Wren Kitchens, says: 'Choosing the right builder is paramount to the success of your project. Utilise resources to find accredited professionals in your area and engage multiple builders to obtain quotes and assess their experience with similar projects. Establishing a payment plan and understanding the aftercare services they offer will provide added peace of mind.'

If you get a quote that seems too good to be true, it probably is.

3. Not having a contingency budget

Al Bruce, founder of Olive & Barr, says: 'Don’t forget that there can be hidden costs, which is why it’s always worth including a contingency within your budget.'

This will help keep your project moving should you come across an issue that was only spotted when you started the work, or help you weather any price increases for materials.

James Bernard, director of Plus Rooms adds: 'There’s nothing worse than embarking on a major project, disrupting your living conditions, and getting to a point that you can’t finish off. You almost put yourself in a worse position if this happens than when you started.'

Aim to keep 10-20% of your total budget as a contingency fund.

4. Ignoring rules and regulations to save money

Depending on where you live, how big your kitchen extension ideas are, and where you plan on positioning the extension, you may need to secure a series of permissions or agreements before you start work.

These may include things like:

• Planning permission
• Building regulations applications
• Party wall agreements
• Lawful Development Certificates (to prove the work falls within the scope of Permitted Development)

Al Bruce says: 'Remember, to familiarise yourself with local building regulations and seek planning permission if needed, these will also be an additional cost to factor in.'

While these costs may eat into an already tight budget, flouting the rules can cost even more. Ignoring the party wall act could leave you having to fork out legal costs, while not having planning permission could mean you have to make alterations to, or even completely undo, your kitchen extension at your own expense.

5. Going too big with your extension

Even if you are on a tight budget for your kitchen extension, it can be tempting to create as much space as possible to make your budget stretch as far as it can. However you could end up with more space than you need, and face additional costs trying to fill it.

Jessica-Ruth Smith, owner and lead designer at Studio Smith Interior Design, says: 'For me, the square meterage is always the first place to look to save if cost is a key factor in the project. The temptation is to “go big” as homeowners think this will make the most difference to the feel of their home, but if you are able to really carefully plan the layout of a smaller extension, you can have all the benefits of extra space, but with some pretty serious savings.'

Sadie Morris, co-Founder and lead interior designer at Southern Homes adds: 'When there's too much space, it can be difficult to fill it appropriately, and the room may feel overly vast and lacking in character. This often leads to adding unnecessary cabinetry, which further inflates costs.

'Take the time to think about how you intend to use the space and focus on what you truly need, rather than just maximizing the square footage. Otherwise, you might end up with an expensive, empty box tacked onto your home, lacking in personality.'

Try these tactics to maximise the impact of a small kitchen extension instead.

6. Opting for cheap flooring and worktops

As with doing DIY that is beyond your skillset, opting for cheap materials in high-use spaces could end up costing you in the long run.

Gareth Davies, design director at Classic Interiors, says: 'Worktops and flooring need to withstand daily wear, so it’s worth investing in durable materials.'

But while it's actually more cost-effective in the long run to spend in certain areas, you will be able to make savings elsewhere, without compromising on quality.

Take roof windows as an example. 'Skylights and bifold doors add impact but can be expensive,' adds Gareth. 'If budget is a concern, a single large picture window can bring in plenty of natural light for less.'

7. Not having a realistic budget

'Finally, don’t forget to set a realistic budget for your kitchen design and discuss with your kitchen designer what is included in the overall cost,' advises Al Bruce. 'This will ensure you know what the final fee will be and you can get started on the fun part (without any worry of hidden costs) of designing your dream kitchen.'

Costs will vary depending on where you live, the size of the space and the specification, but Debra from Wren Kitchens adds: 'On average, you can expect to pay between £1,320 and £2,500 per square metre'.

Once you've decided this is the right project for your home, you'll need to understand how long a kitchen extension takes so you can plan accordingly.

If you've got a kitchen extension on your wish list, or are reaping the benefits of an extended kitchen space, let us know all about it in the comments below.

We all dream about the tweaks and changes we would make to create more space in our homes, especially when it comes to making the kitchen bigger. But how do you practically make this reality and how long does a kitchen extension take?

Planning a kitchen extension is complex; from setting out a budget and pulling together your kitchen extension ideas to finding a contractor and laying out a schedule of works.

With my experience as a renovator, and with the advice of kitchen extension experts, this is how long you can expect your kitchen extension to take, the schedule of works that I'd follow to get it done on time, and the factors to be aware of that will slow your project down.

How long does a kitchen extension take?

A kitchen extension timeline is generally split into two timelines. The design phase and the build phase. The design phase can take around six months and includes finding and working with an architect or a designer, as well as applying for any relevant planning permissions. The build phase can take at least the same again.

Yaniv Peer, director at Iguana Architects advises: 'On average a kitchen extension takes 18 months from start to finish.'

'I would say it largely depends on the level of ambition, overall size and how much other refurb work might be going on in the rest of the house,' adds Mike Bell, founder of FAB Architects.

'However there are some baselines that are common to all projects. Following the RIBA stages [the design process for certified architects] there are a lot of important steps to get right before you even get to site that can be quite time consuming, especially if the planning process is drawn out.'

When all of this is done and dusted, the build phase will start with groundworks and demolition, before the foundations and new structure can be erected.

'Realistically, based on projects we have worked on and been exposed to, I would say to expect up to 6 months before breaking ground and then at least 6 - 12 months to completion,' continues Mike Bell.

'I would also note to clients to be aware that contractors will often try and convince clients that it will take less time than reality often in a bid to win work. So be careful when a contractor provides a timeline that seems too good to be true.'

Knowing how long the process will take might also impact when you should extend your kitchen; starting in the winter to get the design and planning stages out of the way before breaking ground in summer is a popular route for many.

What’s a typical schedule of works when it comes to a kitchen extension?

A typical schedule of works will go as follows:

Design phase (six months)

• Brief the architect
• Concept plan review and amendments
• Sign off on design
• Apply for planning permission (if required)
• Submit building regulations application
• Finalise necessary admin (party wall agreements/home insurance)
• Hire a project manager or find a good builder and organise trades personally by comparing quotes

Build phase (six-12 months)

• Clear the site
• Groundworks and foundations
• Erection of structure
• Get to weathertight stage
• First fix (electrics, plumbing etc.)
• Second fix (flooring, plastering, making good etc.)
• Install kitchen and decorate
• Snagging

What factors can influence how long it takes to extend a kitchen?

Unfortunately, all great plans can be delayed and derailed, and this can be down to various factors.

• The design phase itself might be slowed by choosing the wrong architect for the job — your own ambitions might not quite align with theirs.
• A frequent bottle neck for many extensions is also obtaining planning permission. If your design doesn’t comply with permitted development or you live in a Listed Building or Conservation Area, you will need to submit a full planning application. Generally they say this will take around eight weeks, but it can drag out for an indefinite amount of time, especially if your local authority is experiencing a backlog.
• During the build, last-minute changes to the design will extend the process (and add to costs), so it is always best to stick to what was agreed during the design phase.
• Availability of materials and labour is also a sticking point for many. Good builders get booked up months if not years in advance and a conflict between supply and demand of essentials, such as plasterboard as in the Covid lockdown, will delay the process.

'Having as much of the information prepared and decisions made ahead of starting on site will really help keep things on track and avoiding situations where clients are responsible for ordering items to fit in with the contractor's schedule helps,' adds Mike Bell.

'When clients insist on organising their own trades to go in and gel with another team, this often leads to a delay in our experience and can wipe out the cost benefits.' Find out if you should save costs going this route or if it's best left to the professionals with our guide to project managing an extension.

How can you help keep your kitchen extension on track?

'Delays in a project can be classified as controllable and non-controllable, ' comments Yaniv Peer. 'Controllable delays often arise when project details, such as interior elements, are not fully specified, causing the contractor to wait for decisions. Additionally, selecting an unsuitable contractor or design team can lead to delays in providing necessary information, poor site coordination, and issues that prevent alignment with the project schedule.

'Non-controllable delays include supplier setbacks or financial collapse, as well as external factors like global pandemics and extreme weather. For instance, concrete cannot be poured in extremely cold conditions, and excessive rain can prevent mortar from drying properly, particularly during below-ground construction.'

The top ways to keep a kitchen extension moving along at a good pace would be to:

• Use an architect and pay them to assist applications for planning permission. They know the industry and expectations of your area better and will achieve results at a quicker pace.
• If you’re project managing the build phase, ensure you have all trades lined up with a realistic timeline. Keep everyone in the loop about delays. Hiring a project manager will further speed up this process.
• Move out of the house before groundworks begin. Builders working around you and having to ensure a constant supply of hot water and power can slow down progress.
• Don’t make changes to the plan once the build phase has begun.
• Have a contingency budget set aside so you can quickly react to price hikes or issues along with way.

FAQs

Can you live in the house while the kitchen is being extended?

Absolutely you can live on site in a house while it is undergoing a renovation or extension. But you have to be prepared for discomfort and mess.

To prepare, ensure you will have at least a sitting and sleeping area that will be unaffected by the works. Setting up a temporary kitchen is hugely advisable as you will be without a sink, oven and storage for at least a couple of weeks.

'Clients living off site helps the contractors make progress fast without clients looking over their shoulder,' explains Mike Bell.

'If you do go down this route it's important to book in regular inspections where progress can be discussed with the contractor, as a client and with your architect. This is something you miss from being directly attached to the work that is being carried out. The work we carry out I would say is probably 75% families staying in the house and 25% families moving out. The projects where people move out do seem to go smoother.'

During my own renovation we had to wash plates and pots in the bath and there was dust everywhere. Everywhere. No matter how often you clean and how much you cordon off rooms.

Despite the negatives, it’s a very good way of saving money if you don’t have nearby relatives or friends to move in with. It’s also a bit of a novelty of feeling like you’re really ‘in’ the extension process. But it is not for the faint hearted and you will need to compromise on many home comforts.

If you have an attached garage next to your current kitchen, then a garage conversion could be a simpler and quicker way to get the extra kitchen space you are after.

Are you planning on extending your kitchen? Let us know all about it in the comments below.

With the kitchen being the most hard-working space in the home, it's no wonder than many homeowners want to make it bigger to better suit modern life, entertaining and growing families. But while it might add precious additional space, does a kitchen extension also add value to your home?

While it might seem obvious that an extension will add value to your home, this is only really the case if it is done well. But is that still the case when it comes to extending the kitchen specifically? With kitchen extension costs meaning that a significant investment is required, you'll want to make sure you get a return on your investment, especially if you are planning on selling your home in the future.

With experts saying that a kitchen extension in particular could increase the value of your home by up to 15%, we take a look at how you can maximise the value you add, and the things that may actually end up decreasing how much your home is worth.

Does a kitchen extension add value?

Planning a kitchen extension can be an ideal way to increase the value of your home. Not only will it add more square footage, but it can also help improve the flow around your home, bring in more natural light and ease space pressures that can make your kitchen feel cluttered.

'A larger layout allows for a generous cooking and food preparation area, extra storage for practical convenience and appliances, and space for relaxing or entertaining,' says Caroline Milns, head of interior design of Zulufish. 'Whether an open-plan design or a multi-zone layout, it offers flexible options that enhance both functionality and flow.'

There's another great bonus to extending your kitchen, especially if you are planning on moving house in the near future, as Victoria Brown, founder and director of Musson Brown Architects explains: 'As some buyers are reluctant to undertake renovation work themselves, having a beautifully extended kitchen ready to move into can be a huge selling point – and one for which people will often pay a premium.'

'When done correctly, a well-designed kitchen extension has the potential to increase a property value by up to 15%,' says Bruce, founder of Olive & Barr.

How can you maximise how much value you add with a kitchen extension?

There are definitely ways to max out the value for your kitchen extension – from opting for desirable open plan layouts or adding sought-after features like bifold doors or roof windows to flood the space with daylight.

Incorporating some of these extension design features that are worth the money is a sure way to optimise the value you add.

• High-quality finishes 'Whenever possible, choose high-quality, durable finishes such as granite and stone. These materials not only offer visual appeal but are also long-lasting and can withstand the test of time,' says Caroline.
• Natural light 'While large windows or bifold doors are great for letting light in, don’t overlook the impact of adding rooflights,' Caroline advises. 'They can flood the kitchen with natural light and are particularly valuable if you’re extending a lower ground floor or building towards a rear garden wall, which may limit sunlight.'

• Storage 'Regardless of the size of property, storage is always a selling point. Clever storage solutions such as a pantry, utility and bespoke shelving units help to increase functionality and appeal,' explains Al. 'In addition, the kitchen island continues to be at the top of homeowners wish lists. It’s a place to gather with loved ones, while providing extra prep and cooking areas.'
• Versatility 'Whether hosting dinner parties or working from home, people use kitchens for various activities. So, creating a space that is well suited to these purposes will help you appeal to a wider range of buyers. Including a kitchen island is a great way to increase the functionality of a kitchen space, and a popular feature among many,' advises Victoria.
• Connecting with the rest of the house 'It’s important to create a strong connection between your extension and the rest of your house,' says Victoria. 'When designing new spaces, I try to create a clear line of sight to the front door, so you feel drawn through the house from the moment you enter. This is a great way of ensuring that additional spaces feel at one with the rest of your home.'
• Invest in appliances 'Additionally, upgrading to energy-efficient appliances is a clever investment,' adds Caroline. 'They help reduce energy costs and can serve as an attractive selling point for potential, future buyers.'

What do homebuyers want in a kitchen extension?

If you are planning on selling your home in the future and want to max-out the return on your investment, it can be worth knowing what home owners are coveting in their kitchens right now.

'Homebuyers typically seek a blend of practicality and quiet luxury. A well-insulated space reduces overall running costs, while underfloor heating creates an inviting, cosy atmosphere,' says Caroline. 'Similarly, an abundance of storage solutions ensures your kitchen feels tidy and organised, while built-in joinery – such as bookshelves or banquette seating – makes a space feel bespoke, personal and well-considered.'

According to Caroline, it's worth embrace architectural details as part of the overall framework to create depth and dimension. 'In a recent kitchen extension project we collaborated with HUX London to create a panelled ceiling that runs across the entire space, adding texture and an immediate design statement.'

Can a kitchen extension devalue your home?

It's important to understand that while a well-considered kitchen extension can boost what your home is worth, it is possible that changes could devalue your home instead.

Caroline explains: 'Poor quality and design can seriously impact the overall value, as can a lack of cohesion with the existing home – a successful extension should create a seamless flow throughout the entire floor and the house.'

It's about getting your proportions right and considering other desirable aspects of a property, such as the garden. Caroline adds, 'Additionally, an oversized kitchen extension may not provide the expected return if it feels out of place in the neighbourhood, or if it takes up too much of the outdoor space, which is often highly valued by families or in urban areas where outdoor space is limited.'

FAQs

Is it worth doing a kitchen extension?

'In my experience, a kitchen extension is a task worth undertaking,' says Victoria. 'Financially, the uplift in property value typically offsets the cost of the extension itself. However, in order to profit from this investment, a good eye and careful planning are often required.'

Not only can it boost your house's value, the benefits for your family are improved too. 'Once complete, my clients find that their family spends more time together, having gained a social space previously missing from their home. This open-planned room for cooking, chatting and eating tends to have a positive impact on our everyday lifestyles,' adds Victoria.

'It’s an ideal solution for those who feel they’ve outgrown their space, offering additional room to enjoy without the need to move,' advises Al.

If you are deliberating whether you should extend your kitchen or not, it's also worth looking at the existing space you have that may currently be underused. If you have an attached garage that is next to your current kitchen that is just used for storage, you might consider converting your garage instead.

Faced with their narrow and outdated galley-style kitchen, Lisa Potter-Dixon, and her husband Theo Coyne, dreamed of a spacious kitchen where they could relax and entertain. 

When researching kitchen ideas, the couple came across the perfect solution to their problem. They decided to build a side-return extension which would generate more space and let them create the kitchen of their dreams. By designing their own space from scratch, the couple could avoid the most common kitchen renovation regrets and create a kitchen that met all their needs without compromise.

Excellent extension

‘Theo and I wanted a large, colourful, multifunctional kitchen to host, relax and work in, and the key was creating more space. To do this, we added a side-return extension, with a long skylight, and a small rear extension with full-width, sliding doors, which flood the space with light and connect to the garden,’ says homeowner Lisa.

Moroccan colour inspiration

‘As a make-up artist, I adore colour and at the heart of our kitchen is a huge, bespoke pink concrete kitchen island. Our beautiful marble flooring draws on the vibrant, bold use of colour in Marrakech. I first saw marble floor tiles arranged in a chevron pattern in a riad there. The rest of the kitchen design is pared back to balance out the scheme, with sleek grey handleless cabinets from Howdens,' says Lisa

Statement floor

‘Our marble chevron kitchen floor tiles were a big part of our budget. To keep costs down, I picked three of the five colours from a specialist warehouse and the other two from Mandarin Stone,’ says homeowner Lisa. ‘The maximalist aesthetic of the marble floor tiles has been paired with contemporary, matt charcoal cabinetry and a contrasting soft pink on the island.’

Finishing touches

‘Our kitchen cabinets look a million dollars, but they were the last item we picked, which was a good way round to do things, as they didn’t lead our other design decisions,’ explains Lisa. ‘The pale grey worktops also make an ideal base for characterful pieces and houseplants to be dotted around the space.’

Achieving a dream

‘Having a separate utility room is just perfect. We have loads of extra storage and a second dishwasher,’ explains Lisa. This added space meant the kitchen could be a place for enjoyment.

‘Our kitchen-diner is now such a fun space to be in, and it's completely enhanced the way we live in our home. By day it is a lovely spot for coffee and a good book and then by night, it's a great space to dine in, then dance the night away. It’s everything we dreamed of!’ says Lisa.

This ambitious renovation project involved a kitchen refit and extension in a four-bedroom detached 1930s house in Shenfield, Essex. Before, there was a light-starved, dated kitchen, awkwardly located in the middle of the house. 

However, a kitchen refit and extension that cost the homeowners £65,000 have transformed the space into a beautifully bright kitchen.

‘I wanted a sociable kitchen that was light and airy with a good sense of flow: a space that reflected the 1930s aesthetic of the house but was not too modern or too country in style,' explains the homeowner.

Kitchen extension transformation

Before the kitchen was a light-starved space, with an awkward L-shaped layout and dated design. 'An intensive search brought John Lewis of Hungerford to my attention. Designer Rebecca Nokes thoroughly explored what I wanted and we devised a scheme located in the large, new extension,' she explains.

Before

After

'The kitchen now opens onto the patio, and light floods in through large aluminium-framed doors and windows as well as the new skylight, which meant that I could choose a dramatic dark green shade for the cabinetry.'

When it came to picking the kitchen colour scheme, Manissa didn't rush into any decisions, but went with what felt right to her. ‘I dithered over the colour. Lots of people tried to put me off, saying it would date, was dark, would attract dust. But it looks amazing because the room is so light.’

She also turned practical kitchen storage ideas in to part of the aesthetic. 'The bespoke dresser looks integrated, but has a slightly more freestanding style which softens the space. The glass-fronted doors allow me to display pretty things and the big drawers offer useful extra storage.’

She adds, 'a separate utility room was a must for the laundry and ironing paraphernalia. Now the kitchen provides the perfect balance of function and style, whether we’re entertaining, home-schooling or working from home.’

‘I chose porcelain floor tiles with tones of blue and grey that pick up the green of the units. The tiles have a light waves design that gives the space a sense.'

When it came to the patio doors, Manissa wanted them to have a minimal frame with attractive central bars. 'In the summer with the windows open, it’s wonderful to have the flow from kitchen to the outside.’

Every detail was carefully considered right down to the bar stools. 'So many bar stools are badly designed and uncomfortable,' Manissa says. 'I wanted the right height with a supported back and good looks. These padded faux leather, stainresistant seats tick the boxes.’

Looking back on the project, Manissa is happy she didn't go for a uniform look. 'You can go too far with hiding things away, leaving a space devoid of character. It’s nice to have a few colourful books and personality on show,' she says.

Focus on: automated roof windows

These practical windows offer many benefits beyond flooding the space with light.

• The electric roof window provides easy supplementary ventilation as well as light. Although manually operated roof windows are inexpensive, they are not always practical. Solarpowered and electric roof windows are ideal for out-of-reach situations, such as vaulted ceilings. 
• These remote-controlled windows, some with integrated blinds or shutters, allow for opening and closing at the touch of a button rather than using a manual pole. They require an electrical motor and a switch, which can be hard-wired to a switch plate or wireless. At the top end of the scale they help improve the energy efficiency of a building, with triple-pane glass insulation, noiseblock technology and heat-reflective coatings. 
• Most roof windows with automatic opening offer rain sensors. These are small metal plates that detect rainfall and automatically close the roof light when it is detected. The quality varies, so check whether the sensors will also detect other adverse weather such as snow or hail.

EDITOR’S NOTE: An earlier version of this article included a quote from a purported expert whose credentials we have not been able to verify. The quote has been removed. We regret this lapse in our verification process and have updated our internal protocols to reduce the risk of recurrence.

If you've been dreaming about kitchen extension ideas for a while now, you may be feeling just a little overwhelmed. Learning how to extend a kitchen in the first instance is a lot to get your head round, and that's before you even get started on planning the end result of what your new kitchen ideas will look like.

But that's really where the fun begins because kitchen extension ideas offer a wealth of opportunities. You can plan, design, and bring to fruition your dream kitchen. It might be a spacious kitchen-diner that flows beautifully into the living room or an enlarged kitchen that offers full views of your back garden - or, it might be both! Even if you only plan to make a small addition, there are ways to maximise the impact of a small kitchen extension.

'The question is how can you extend the kitchen to make the new space work with the existing space,' says George Omalianakis, expert residential architect ARB / RIBA, GOAStudio. 'You want the extension to create an enlarged kitchen, dining, living, and even kid's play area that opens up to the rear garden and that links to the rest of the house in an effortless way.'

So if you've decided you should extend your kitchen, we've come up with all the best kitchen extension ideas that will bring your dream into reality. Whether you are extending your kitchen on a budget or are looking to add some luxury to your home, there will be some ideas in our guide that you can implement into your home. It's time to start planning!

Kitchen extension ideas

Aside from transforming your kitchen into the space that you need it to be, a kitchen extension will add value to your home, so it's a wise investment. Transform your current cooking space into a socialising and living space too with our pick of the best kitchen extension ideas.

Rather than choosing between a kitchen extension and remodel, for the best results you can combine the two.

1. Incorporate various roof profiles

A multifunctional kitchen extension - i.e. one that will house cooking, dining, socialising, and living spaces - will benefit from a varied roofing structure over one bland, flat ceiling. Different ceiling levels will help define and separate the different functions of the new kitchen area, so it's worth thinking about this in the early planning stages.

'Once you have come up with a clear layout of where the kitchen is, where the living area is, and what you would like to connect to the garden, try to then play with various roof profiles to define the various functions of your new kitchen area,' says architect George.

'High ceilings create an uplifting, “cathedral”, effect, whereas lower ceiling areas are more cosy and intimate. Pitched roof profiles will draw your eyesight upwards or downwards leading your brain to read the space you are in differently.'

2. Define areas with different floor levels

If your extending to create an open-plan kitchen, you want to define separate living, cooking, and dining areas. A helpful way to do this is to have different levels of flooring; you could raise the level of the cooking space above that of the diner, or vice versa, then gradually transition down towards the garden level.

'This is a reflection of how you use this space and how it fits with everything else around it,' says George. 'By lowering the floor level you put a boundary around a dining area for example.'

'By raising the kitchen area you make it the centre of activity, the raised deck where you can also monitor all family and social life from while cooking.'

3. Consider a conservatory or orangery

'A conservatory or orangery extension is a really popular choice for kitchens as the abundance of glass allows the room to be filled with vast amounts of natural light,' says Mervyn Montgomery, joint director of Hampton Conservatories. 'However, when the majority of the external walls are glazed, the layout and zoning of the kitchen need some additional thinking through.'

You could opt for a kitchen that is heavy on base units to counteract the fact that the glazing extension does not allow for many wall units. The extension can then focus on being a seating and living area, or even a playroom or office space.

If you are building a conservatory or orangery extension, the key is to plan ahead to make sure you still have space for all your kitchen storage.

4. Embrace asymmetry

Uniquely shaped kitchen extension ideas can create wonderful living spaces that suit their individual household perfectly. Think outside the box during the initial planning stage; you can go for a popular L-shaped kitchen layout or bring something to life that is beautifully asymmetrical, that performs in the way you need it to.

'Often a bit of asymmetry, an organised and considered chaos approach in terms of design, results in spaces that are surprising while they still feel just right,' says architect George.

'Keep an eye on proportions and scale and composition; there is a lot you can achieve with pretty standard construction methods as long as you plan everything in advance and explore a few options during the design development stage.'

5. Plan in the finer details at the start

Before your extension project gets fully underway, it's important to think about the kitchen layout and design too.

'If possible have some ideas before you decide on the build, so that they can be incorporated at the outset, e.g., drainage points, electric sockets, extractors, windows, etc.', says Mark Mills, MD, Mereway Kitchens. 'This way you save time and money and can even turn a necessary utility into a feature – e.g. support structure.'

Remembering to incorporate these nitty gritty details in the early planning stages is something you'll thank yourself for later.

6. Match your extension plans to the foundations

It's important to understand the footings and foundations you'll be building on, as this will affect the type of kitchen extension ideas you can implement, as well as the project's price tag.

'In terms of the footings - if you have clay, overtime this would depress when you put concrete footings on top so you need to go below clay level, which can be very expensive per square metre', says Ian McConville, group procurement director, MKM. 'This only matters if you are extending upwards. If you are undertaking a side extension you would install new footings anyway.'

Your architect will be able to go through these details with you, but it's helpful to do a bit of research first so you're prepared for how much work your extension will involve.

7. Add a skylight

If you're looking to maximise light and make your new kitchen as bright and open as possible, a new roof window the best way to do this.

8. Consider keeping your extension small

The size of your kitchen extension will likely be at the forefront of your mind, so it's important to get clear on how much square footage you want to add exactly. Think in terms of floor space; how much more do you actually need for your new kitchen to do exactly what you want it to? Try to stick to this and not go over unnecessarily.

A small kitchen is usually around 15m2 and a large kitchen is usually up to around 50m2. Keep these numbers in mind as a rough guide when planning your kitchen extension.

Even with a small addition, you could create a kitchen extension that feels modern and timeless.

9. Make an island the focal point

Always dreamt of having a beautiful kitchen island as the stand-out feature in your kitchen? An extension will give you the space to do just that.

Kitchen island seating ideas are great socialising spaces; they create a place for people to gather round with a glass of wine while the cook sees to meal prep, and they're a great breakfast and lunch spot for everyday.

Plus, you can use your island as extra storage too. Keep your countertops clutter-free and put larger utensils and appliances you don't use everyday away in the confines of your island unit.

10. Create a thoughtful layout

Architects Studio Varey transformed this charming semi-detached North London home with a sleek new kitchen extension. A newly open-plan ground floor houses a modern kitchen/dining space, extending out into the back garden, that takes inspiration from orangery ideas with its large skylight.

'The new space is filled with natural light from both the large skylight positioned over the dining table, as well as the expansive glass doors that allow this family to bring the outside in and maximise the home’s connection to the garden' say the design experts.

The kitchen design features composite countertops and a large run of tall cupboards, which have created over 50% more usable storage, a key request for this family home.

11. Form a relationship with the outside

'One thing to consider when extending outwards to create a bigger kitchen is how natural light will be affected,' says Victoria Brocklesby, COO, Origin.

'In instances where the square footage of a room increases but the number of windows or glazing doesn’t, the space can become dark and uninviting.' Glass sliding doors are ideal for maximising light in the new kitchen space, and opening up the area to the outdoors.

This Edwardian house features a modern rear extension which allows the kitchen-dining area to seamlessly flow into the beautiful garden beyond.

12. Envision how the space is best used

The main objective with this kitchen extension was to create a spacious kitchen with the island and dining table taking centre stage. 'We used Resi, an architecture practice, to secure planning permission,' explains this homeowner.

'We produced several different layouts on graph paper, detailing the dimensions for the space needed – for things like walking between the island and kitchen units. And what might be required for the seating area.'

‘It was a fairly straightforward design using planed structural timber, double-glazed panels and power-coated aluminium capping. In fact, it was probably cheaper than a slate and Velux alternative and allows plenty of light to flood in.’ The combination of a glazed pitch roof and large steel-style windows and doors provide a bright, airy feel to the kitchen.

13. Mix materials

Use a mix of materials to get the best from your kitchen extension. Allow a brick extension to extend the space, retaining structure and warmth within the framework. But pair the brick with steel framed doors that offer an airy feel, allowing the outside to integrate with the indoor space.

Further use of glass with a roof lantern adds a contemporary edge to the design, that floods the main kitchen area with natural light.

14. Create a multi-purpose space

At the planning stages work with your architect to create a space that can provide the perfect balance for your lifestyle. A smart kitchen extension that can seamlessly integrate cooking, dining and socialising is a great way to use the space – especially when working from a small floor plan.

Using larger furniture pieces to help create the different zones is an ideal solution, to save on structural divisions. You can also use colour blocking to define the different zones. Two-tone kitchen colour schemes are hugely popular with larger kitchens, as they help to create visual variety and prevent the space from feeling too big and empty.

15. Make the walls retract

'Remember: the garden is the “stage” for pretty much all kitchen extension projects,' says architect George. 'You will experience your new space from the inside out.'

Extensions that allows a seamless fusion of outside and inside dwellings are the most popular for a reason. And sliding doors, which all but disappear, are the best way to completely open the space up.

Aside from having the freedom to unit the spaces in summer, in winter the glass structure allows maximum light capacity – to keep the space feeling open and airy, ideal in smaller kitchens.

16. Double the size by repurposing a side return

Use redundant space from a side return to create extra space for an open-plan kitchen and dining area. The extra footage will allow adequate room for a more comfortable living arrangement.

The extension also opens up the possibility to put in skylights and doors across the back to create a further sense of openness.

17. Use glass to balance the light

This period village house is enhanced by a contemporary glass extension and modern interior. Extending out a few metres beyond the boundary wall is enough to completely open the ground floor space.

Where the garden is at a higher level to the ground floor the use of glass across the entire rear extension helps to ensure the sunken space isn't dark and enclosed.

18. Adapt the space to fit the new normal

Our homes have never had to work harder to incorporate our growing needs. Kitchens have always been considered the heart of the home as they become home offices, restaurants, classrooms and more.

19. Use extended glass panels to let the light in

Lose a wall by installing glass panels and folding/sliding doors for a space that opens up completely to the garden beyond. This smart extension doesn't go out further, it uses the space vertically to flood the room and incorporate the garden.

Pick and position wall and base units by thinking about the outside space too. Here the honeyed tones cabinetry helps to draw the eye up and out, while the lower cupboards are grounded by a darker hue.

All the design aspects work in tandem to open up the space, without having to make a larger footprint for extending. A high traffic throughway will need a hardwearing floor so choose a durable dark-tiled version.

20. Put safety first when thinking of the layout

Essential if you have small children in the house, the most efficient and safest layout will route traffic away from your oven and hob to ensure kids aren’t likely to get themselves under your feet and into danger when you’re moving hot pans around the room.

Make the fridge accessible but don’t put it at the very heart of the room. Try placing it to one side, nearest the entrance to the room, so children can help themselves to drinks without venturing into the cooking space.

21. Incorporate structural elements

Instead of trying to hide structural steel beams, turn them into part of the design. In this instance the black patio window frames and black steel beam bring balance and interest to this simple white kitchen. Windows in particular should be seen as part of the design rather than a merely functional element, as they have a big effect on the kitchen-garden flow.

'It's good to take some time to consider the glazing and window design options to maximise your visual connection to your garden,' says architect George. 'Dark window frames, minimal framing, and turn-the-corner window arrangements will maximise the effect and bring your kitchen area right into your garden.'

22. Create a viewing room

If you have extended into your garden space, make the most of lovely views. Let the windows be the star of your decorating scheme and wherever possible place furniture where it can oversee your outdoor space.

'It's not a hard and fast rule, but many homeowners choose to locate their kitchen on the inside wall of the new room, and place their dining area adjacent to the windows and glazing,' says Mervyn, Hampton Conservatories. 'This allows the homeowner to install a long run of cabinetry at the rear of the room with an island in front, looking out into the garden.'

Keep the decorating scheme pared back, and simple so the view is always foremost. Go for matching neutrals across the board with simple decorative touches, a reclaimed table and eclectic chairs. Use glass wall lights for added character at night time.

23. Be brave with clashing colour

Your newly reconfigured kitchen is the ideal place to use colour. But be sure to thinking about the long-life factor. Love pink, the colour of the moment but scared it will date quickly? Why not experiment with a small section of the wall above the tiles? After all, it's not a huge deal if you decide to change it at a later date.

The key is using a clever combination of materials to create a colour clash. Dilute block colour in a kitchen by separating bold shades with patterned tiles, different shades on cabinets and through accessories.

24. Make storage attractive and accessible

Don't want to waste time rummaging for things in the backs of cupboards? Create an open shelving system, like the one in this U-shaped kitchen idea, and you'll have utensils, cookery books and other items that you frequently use to hand when you need them.

Or if open storage isn't your thing, floor to ceiling cabinets will help you make the most of your newfound space. 'Full height, floor to ceiling, cabinet units can provide you with additional storage in an efficient way while retaining clean lines across your kitchen', says architect George.

25. Extend out with a side return

Extending out to the side is a good option if you live in a semi-detached or detached home, as it doesn’t mean using garden space. You may lose side access to your garden though, and planning permission can be trickier as it will be determined by how close you are to you neighbour’s boundary.

For period terraced homes the path or back garden to the side of a kitchen at the rear, called the side return can be extended into to create a kitchen that runs the full width of the house. Remember, though, to consider how light will then reach the rooms the new space will extend over. You can also combine rear and side extensions for a stunning wrap-around kitchen.

26. Consolidate storage

Plan your kitchen extension storage with care. If you have the space, it pays to keep cupboards to a specified area rather than have them dotted all around.

In this impressive extension, base and wall units have been banked together on a single wall and long, full-width island. This not only keeps everything close to hand at the busy, business end of the space, but allows you to co-ordinate your colour scheme - in this case, a dark-grey matt paint finish.

27. Seek out and follow the light

In a kitchen extension, position a dining table where the maximum light falls. In this space, which lacks conventional windows, roof lights bring drama and atmosphere to the table. An adjustable, wall-hung pivot light adds a modern touch.

Look for furniture that fits the space you have as exactly as possible. This table is the width of two place settings and no more, allows room for chairs to move in and out and is the perfect length to make full use of the room's dimensions.

28. Blur the boundaries

Use an extension to continue your kitchen space outside. Choose floor tiles that allow a continuous flow from kitchen to patio, giving the illusion of one large room.

Use the white of your cabinets and kitchen walls on external brickwork, masonry and planters. Create an outdoor cooking area that has all the features of a kitchen rather than a barbecue, including a worktop positioned to continue the run of the kitchen version inside.

29. Colour code kitchen zones

Make large, open-plan spaces work by using colour to define different functions. Try white, handleless cabinetry for a practical, easy-to-maintain cooking and food preparation area.

Introduce a contrast shade on a breakfast bar island to signpost the change of function, but keep the worktop white to indicate that this is a dual-function surface. For dining, go unfinished wood - in keeping with its proximity to the patio, this table and chairs could be mistaken for garden furniture.

Unify the whole with timber flooring, a wooden sideboard and a row of wooden bar stools.

How much is a kitchen extension?

The kitchen extension cost will vary dramatically from project to project. Factors like the size of the extension, the location, bespoke features, and planning permissions needed will either plus or minus a few zeros on to the final price.

It's helpful to think of kitchen extension cost in terms of cost per sq m, so you can track the rise in price along with the increase in size. Current prices per sq m for a kitchen extension are around £1400 - £2000. If you're also installing a new kitchen suite (appliances), you can expect to pay around £200 - £1000 per sq m for the kitchen suite.

It's important to be as detailed as you can during liaisons with your architect, so they can give you as accurate a quote as possible. 'If you are getting a rough build cost calculation from a builder or an architect, this will usually be for the ‘shell’ of the extension,' explains Sky Moore-Clube, Architectural Designer, Urbanist Architecture. 'If the extension will include big-ticketed items such as a kitchen, the type of kitchen you want could dramatically affect the final cost.'

Do you need permission to extend a kitchen?

Most kitchen extension ideas will need planning permission, unless they fall under permitted development. The different forms of permission your extension requires will depend on the type of property, the location, and how the new extension relates to the adjacent boundaries with the neighbours.

'If your property has Permitted Development Rights (this often applies to non-Listed houses that are not in Conservation areas, but not to flats) you might be able to add an extension that needs no prior planning approval', says George Omalianakis, Kitchen Extension Expert, GOAStudio. 'But you will be limited with what you are able to do in terms of design, as Permitted Development requires that you tick a number of boxes.'

A single-storey rear extension is usually the most planning permission-friendly extension project, and can often be achieved under permitted development. Keep in mind the balance between house and garden, as swallowing up too much garden may be detrimental to the property's value. A simple side extension is also planner-friendly and can widen a narrow kitchen without stealing precious outdoor space. Side-returns are a common choice for terraced properties, which often have a half-width kitchen tacked onto the rear.

You will likely need to seek Building Regulations approval as well, which covers a number of technical and structural matters including the insulation levels, fire regulations, structural safety, weatherproofing details etc.

'You will also need to deal with any relevant Party Wall matters if you build near the boundary with your neighbours', adds George. 'And if your property is leasehold then you will need to obtain approval (often called License to Alter) from your Freeholder. It's best to ask a solicitor to advise on the terms of your lease and how you go about obtaining approval from your Freeholder.'

Working with an architect or planning consultant can increase your chances of success at this stage as they will be aware of local planning policy. It can also help to find similar extensions on your street, as these can serve as a precedent for your project. Refer back to GOV.uk throughout the planning stage, as this will keep you informed of all the relevant info.

Will you be using any of these kitchen extension ideas?

The kitchen is one of the hardest working spaces in any home, and so it's not surprising that many homeowners are willing to invest to make the space bigger so it works better for their home and their lifestyle. But how much does a kitchen extension cost?

The answer will ultimately depend on the scope of your kitchen extension ideas, the specification you choose, and where you live. While extending a kitchen is a significant project to undertake, both practically and financially, having a key understanding of how much to budget and how to make the most of it is crucial for project success.

Here we explain how much a kitchen extension is likely to cost, the factors to be aware of that can send costs soaring, and offer some tips on how you can keep the budget under control.

How much does a kitchen extension cost?

How much your kitchen extension costs will largely depend on what you build and where you build it, but these experts have broken down some average costs.

'On average, you can expect to pay between £1,320 and £2,500 per square metre,’ says Debra Hutt, kitchen design expert at Wren Kitchens. 'For instance, a 20-square-metre extension could range from £25,200 to £33,600. It's important to note that these figures are averages, and actual costs will vary based on specific project requirements and regional differences.'

Gareth Davies, Design Director at Classic Interiors, adds: 'Costs vary depending on the scale of the project, but a standard UK kitchen extension usually starts at around £30,000 and can go beyond £60,000 for a high-end finish.'

Running through the specifics of your ideas with an architect, kitchen designer and builder will help you understand the costs for your particular project.

What can affect the cost of your kitchen extension?

There are several factors that can massively influence the cost of your kitchen extension:

Size

Understandably, a larger kitchen extension will warrant a higher price tag. Not only will you need more materials to build the extension itself, but you'll likely need to spend more filling the new space so it doesn't feel too empty. Bigger extensions also take longer to build, which means you'll likely need to pay more to have your tradespeople on site for longer.

If your kitchen extension plans fall outside of Permitted Development rules in your area, then you'll also face extra costs when having to apply for planning permission.

'An extension doesn’t have to be large to make an impact,' says Gareth Davies. 'A small side or rear extension can improve layout, create better flow, and bring in more light. Built-in seating, open shelving, and a lighter colour scheme help maximise the sense of space.'

Your choice of construction system will also impact your costs. Brick and block may be more affordable, while opting for an oak-frame addition or using SIPs (structural insulated panels), will add to the overall price.

Specification

The materials and finishes you choose will also affect the price you pay for your kitchen extension. High-end options, with bespoke finishes or in custom sizes will eat up a chunk of your pot.

Al Bruce, founder of Olive & Barr, says: 'Solid wood cabinets usually cost more than engineered wood or laminate ones. Marble countertops are generally pricier than quartz or granite. These differences in materials can significantly affect the total cost. '

But it is possible to extend your kitchen on a budget, without compromising on style and quality, provided you know the tricks to try. Making sure you avoid these budget kitchen extension mistakes is a good starting point.

The complexity of the design also plays a part, says Al: 'Further complicating matters is the design complexity. Intricate designs with unique features or complex layouts will naturally drive up the cost of production. For instance, a kitchen with several custom-built storage solutions and integrated appliances will likely exceed the average price range due to the advanced craftsmanship involved.

'However, it’s important to pay attention to quality: where the units are made, the material used and the joinery details. Choosing solid wood such as tulip, ash or oak will withstand years of use and keep the kitchen looking as good as new for years to come.'

Where you live

The location of your property will also have an impact on cost. For properties located in cities, and in London in particular, labour and materials may be more expensive. You might also face additional costs if there are any logistical issues that need to be resolved, such as site access or material storage. This can particularly be the case in terraced homes.

If you live in a designated zone, like an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or conservation area, you will likely also have the planning application fee on top. There might also be planning conditions attached to your permission that you will need to pay to discharge before you can begin.

In these areas, you might also find that there are very strict rules around the materials you can use, and they may not be on the budget end of the scale.

Structural changes

'In construction terms you will want to avoid complex structural alterations (requirement for beams = costs)', says George Omalianakis, Architecture Director at GOA Studio. 'Your architect and structural engineer will help you assess this and find the most straightforward way to meet your requirements.'

Making changes when it comes to plumbing can also prove expensive. So if you are looking to stick to a tight budget, it's best to come up with a design for the new space that leaves these where they are (if possible).

Rules and regulations approval

Even if your kitchen extension doesn't require planning permission, it will need Building Regulations approval. How much your application costs will depend on the specifics of your project and at what points an inspector needs to come and sign off on the work.

But you could speak to your local Building Control department and explain the scope of the work you propose to get an indication of how much you will pay in fees.

If you build near the boundary with your neighbours, you may also need a party wall agreement in place. If your extension is near a public drain at all, it will need to be approved by the local water authority, too.

Lastly, if your property is under a leasehold ownership then you will need your Freeholder to agree to any alterations you do to your property. This will bump the overall kitchen extension cost up further, as you may need to account for solicitor fees.

Is a kitchen extension worth it?

There are two points to consider when weighing up whether a kitchen extension is worth it.

The first is the financial return on your investment, and this is crucial if you are planning on selling in the near future and want your kitchen extension to add value to your home. You'll want the value you add to be more than the cost of the project. Before you start, it's worthwhile looking at properties that have recently sold in your area to get a sense of what they are selling for.

Al Bruce adds: 'When done correctly, a well-designed kitchen extension has the potential to increase a property value by up to 15%. Investing in the quality of kitchen as well as a cleverly thought-out design can not only make the space appear more beautiful, but also add to the functionality of the room.

'Open-plan spaces create a real wow-factor to the home, which can have an impressive impact on a potential buyer. As well as adding a sense of space, lighting is also a key design element.'

Secondly, think about the benefit the change will have on how you live in and interact with your home. The cost of moving house is high, and so it might be more cost-effective to improve where you already are instead.

Once you've decided that you should extend your kitchen, you might want to check out these kitchen lighting ideas to make the most of your new space.

Want to extend your kitchen? Let us know all about it in the comments below.

Having a kitchen that serves as the hub of the home is highly sought-after. But for some homeowners, the only way to achieve this is through a kitchen extension. But where do you start?

You might already have a load of kitchen extension ideas at the ready for when you're in a position to add more space to your home. But in order to bring them to life, it will need some careful planning.

To help, we've spoken to the experts to break down the steps you'll need to follow in order to make your dream kitchen extension a reality.

1. Do you really need to extend?

Before you get engrossed in the planning process, it's worth considering if you should extend your kitchen or not. It is usually more cost-effective to make sure of underused existing space before adding more square footage to the footprint of your home, so it's important to weight up the pros and cons of a kitchen extension versus a remodel.

It's worth asking yourself (and an architect or designer) whether you could achieve your dream of a bigger kitchen by reconfiguring the space you already have. Perhaps converting an attached garage is all you need to get the additional space you crave.

This can also be a suitable solution if you have a small garden and don't want to sacrifice it by building an extension.

2. Identify what you need

'It’s important to consider the identity of the space and what it will be used for and who will be using it,' explains Keith Myers, director at The Myers Touch

'One of the things we do with all our projects, especially for kitchen extensions, is to map out and reflect with the homeowner how they will use the space, while also honing in on the natural elements and bringing them to life with sky lights or large doors that open up into the garden,' agrees James Bernard, director of Plus Rooms.

'If you’re planning a new extension, consider how you can use the valuable spaces in your kitchen, such as any pantries, laundry spaces, storage, and corners that often go unused and untouched in order to create spaces that are characterful and unique.'

Think too about how you can ensure your kitchen extension feels modern yet timeless. After all, you don't want to go to all that effort only for your new space to look dated a few years down the line.

It's also worth considering the site on which you house sits, and how best to extend. 'There are two ways of developing your kitchen extension,' says Keith. 'The first is taking a view from the outside. This means the designs are based on the physical conditions of the exterior of the property. For example, there is a drain running at the back or there is limited space, so you design the space to fit within the physical constraints of the exterior.

'The other way of creating the space you want is to design from the inside out, so you are designing your perfect interior space, and then wrap the extension around it. You may have some dead garden space to work with, an old conservatory or room in the side return - these are all great starting points for your kitchen extension design.'

You might also consider a conservatory kitchen as a budget way to create additional space, but this will need careful thought to ensure the area is suitable for use year-round.

3. How big does your kitchen extension need to be?

If you've been living in a space that feels cramped, cluttered and claustrophobic, then it can be tempting to want to add as big a kitchen extension as money can buy. But maximising on size, can mean significant additional time and costs for things like materials, labour and any planning permission you may need to secure.

A single-storey rear extension is usually the most planning permission-friendly option, often achievable under Permitted Development. A simple side extension that’s subservient to the main house is also planner-friendly and can widen a narrow kitchen without stealing precious garden. Side return extensions are a common choice for terraced properties, which often have a half-width kitchen tacked onto the rear. Knowing how to maximise the impact of a small kitchen extension will help you get the most out of a small addition.

If you plan on selling your home in the future, don't swallow up too much garden with an extension otherwise you risk reducing your property’s value.

4. Consider the kitchen extension's layout early

The kitchen layout needs to be decided early on and it's a good idea to work with a kitchen designer to help you. Think about the features you want in your kitchen, like an island or space for dining. Do you want a sink, oven or hob in your island? Do you dream of having a rooflight in your kitchen extension? All of these decisions will impact other elements such as plumbing and electrical work, and where is the best position to bring in natural light to make your new space feel bright and spacious.

Working with your architect and a kitchen designer can help you get the most out of the new space, in terms of both function and aesthetics.

5. How to budget for your kitchen extension

Ultimately, how much your kitchen extension costs will depend on your specification, the materials you use and where you live. But having a clear idea of what you want from the outset can help the experts you speak to provide estimates.

While there are ways that you can extend your kitchen on a budget, it's important to avoid the common pitfalls that offer false economies.

If what you want looks like it will be beyond your budget, your architect, builder and kitchen designer may all be able to offer some alternative solutions that will get you close to what you want, without blowing your bank balance or compromising on quality.

Ultimately, done well, a kitchen extension can add value to your home, so the ideal scenario would be to add more value than the project costs.

6. Choose an architect

Once you’ve decided on a style and space, look for an architect or designer who will be able to advise you on what’s possible, guide you through the planning process (if needed) and help you achieve your dream space within your budget. Make sure your architect is RIBA Chartered and make use of recommendations from family and friends if you can.

'The reason for hiring an architect, is for them to add value, proposing and conceiving ideas and thoughts you might not consider,' says Darren Bray, director of Studio BAD architects. 'A good architect, will be able to work with a budget and still deliver a fantastic space; utilising affordable design ideas and materials to ingenious ways. An architect should be able to be challenged and challenge the concept of project.'

Ideally, you should create a shortlist of three or four architects. Ask to see examples of their previous work and to speak with former clients. Your chosen architect will then undertake a site survey and present plans to you for approval.

7. Seek necessary permissions

Once you have approved the architect’s plans, you should know if you need to apply for planning permission for your extension or not. Your architect should be able to advise you in this respect, as they should be familiar with planning policy in your area..

'Obtaining permissions are an integral part of the design development process you will go through with your architect', says George Omalianakis, kitchen extension expert at GOAStudio.

Even if you don't need to submit a planning application, you will need to obtain building regulations approval from a building control. An inspector will need to visit your project at various points to ensure the work meets the guidance laid out in the regulations.

If your kitchen extension impacts a wall or boundary you share with a neighbour, you may also need to have a party wall agreement in place.

8. Get a builder onboard

'Make sure you find a very good builder, usually your architect, can help with this and recommend someone they work with all the time,' suggests Darren.

Costs vary for building works, and it is a good idea to get several quotes. 'Once you have planning approval, your architect will need to prepare a set of technical / Building Regulation drawings that can be priced by the builder and use to build from,' says Darren.

'This will typically take a couple of months, depending on the complexity of the extension. The builder will typically take a month to price / tender the project, so it's best to allow three to four months post planning. But you may need to wait for your chosen builder as good ones get booked up.'

You will also need to think about who is going to manage your kitchen extension project, ensuring materials arrive on time, trades turn up in the order they should, and to deal with any issues that crop up.

If you have the time and are experienced in this type of work, then you could project manage your own extension to save some money. However, if you aren't, you will need to appoint someone to manage it for you.

9. Fine tune your design

Once your architect has planned the basic layout of the kitchen for you, you can take your architectural drawings to your preferred kitchen company. They can then fine-tune the layout and come up with final designs for your approval.

Layout finalised and supplier chosen, you'll then be able to ask for a detailed layout, wiring and plumbing plans. Have these ready to share with your builder in time for the next step...

10. Get started on site

Once building work starts, you might find yourself faced with the realities of living on site. And with your current kitchen potentially out of action, you may need to set up a temporary kitchen if you plan on staying in the property while the work goes on. Make sure you have a clear idea of how long a kitchen extension takes, so you can plan accordingly.

You’ll need to start paying your builder. ‘Most contracts require staged payments against valuations,’ says Hugo Tugman, founder of Architect Your Home.

‘This means that your architect visits the project every payment period and issues a certificate to say what percentage of the total work is complete. You then pay against completed works.’

11. Snagging

Only when these have been done to your satisfaction should you make your last payment to your builder in return for a final certificate. Make sure that all electrical work, plumbing and gas supplies are signed off, too.

Before your kitchen cabinetry and appliances can be installed, you’ll need to lay your flooring. Fitting of your new kitchen should then take up to four weeks. After the cabinets have been fitted, your kitchen company will template the worktops, which should take around two weeks.

In the meantime, you can paint the walls and add fixtures and lighting. Then, once the worktops are in place, your kitchen extension will be ready to revel in!

When it comes to choosing a kitchen for your new space, make sure you check out these modern kitchen ideas for some inspiration.

Want to extend your kitchen or have you already done it and have wisdom to share? Tell us all about it in the comments below.