The hunt for small orangery kitchen extension ideas is on the rise, with homeowners increasingly being seduced by all that they offer. If you only have a limited space to play with for your new kitchen, using clever orangery extension ideas is a great way to make the most of it.

"A small kitchen orangery can be a really uplifting space when it’s designed around how it will be used day to day,' explains Rachel Davis, designer at Harvey Jones. "The natural light they enjoy brings a sense of openness."

Whether you have an existing orangery that you have earmarked for your new kitchen or are in the process of designing this kind of glazed structure from scratch, we've pulled together a collection of some of the most inspiring projects we've seen.

1. Opt for a one-wall kitchen layout in a small orangery

Your kitchen layout ideas matter more than ever when you are dealing with a compact space – and when it comes to orangeries which feature lots of glazing, your design needs to be carefully tailored both to the proportions of the room as well as to how you plan on using it on a daily basis.

"Layout plays a crucial role in making a compact kitchen orangery feel comfortable and purposeful," picks up Libby Taylor, one of the experts at Vale Garden Houses. "Positioning the working kitchen area where existing services and wall space are available allows the dining or seating zones to sit closer to glazing and garden views."

Within this classically-styled orangery, by Vale Garden Houses, the dining area is flooded with light from the roof lantern above while the one-wall kitchen design offers maximum practicality without taking up too much floorspace.

2. Position your kitchen island to make the most of your orangery views

Even small kitchens can have islands if you are clever with your design and this is a feature that works so well within a small orangery kitchen extension, giving you somewhere to stand and really enjoy the natural light and garden views that these types of structure afford.

"When cabinetry, appliances and storage are carefully considered alongside light and proportions, this is a space that can feel calm, cohesive and easy to live with," says Rachel Davis.

In this small kitchen orangery, the vibrant green island sits centrally forming a social hub – when the doors are flung open, the patio becomes an extension of this space.

3. Enhance a small orangery kitchen with lighting design

Kitchen lighting design can be hard to get just right – it needs to be a combination of effective task lighting, good background illumination and have the potential to create the right atmosphere for a range of different situations.

In a small orangery kitchen extension, much of the ceiling will be glazed meaning even more care needs to go into thinking about the positioning of artificial light sources.

Within this bright and airy kitchen orangery, by David Salisbury, recessed downlights have been fitted into the solid area of ceiling that forms the perimeter of the roof lantern, while two large pendants have been attached to its apex to light the island.

4. Use your layout to draw the eye to outside

Galley kitchens are ideal for small spaces, utilising every inch and making it easy to move between the various zones. Adding a small orangery to the end of the kitchen, where it meets the garden, is a great way to draw the eye to outside and visually stretch the space.

"I encourage clients to think of the orangery as a natural continuation of the kitchen rather than a separate room," shares Rachel Davis.

It's a point that Libby Taylor agrees on: "Natural zoning creates a sense of flow and ensures the room remains both practical and inviting, even when space is limited."

5. Locate your island directly beneath a roof lantern for maximum impact

Roof lanterns make stunning features and are an integral part of a small orangery kitchen extension, drawing light into the very heart of the space. Locating a kitchen island directly beneath a glazed lantern has the effect of highlighting both features, turning them into striking focal points in the space. That said, care does need to be taken to prevent overheating.

"One of the most common concerns with smaller kitchen orangeries is temperature control," says Libby Taylor. "Kitchens already generate heat, and when combined with large areas of glazing, thoughtful design becomes essential.

"Adequate ventilation is key. Opening side windows and roof vents should be incorporated to create a natural through-draught, while discreet extractor fans positioned over cooking areas will help manage heat, moisture and odours," continues Libby. "The use of low-E glass makes a significant difference, particularly in south- or west-facing rooms. In some cases, opting for a part-glazed or solid roof can provide welcome shade while still allowing light to flood deep into the space."

6. Be smart with your door choice in a small orangery kitchen

While all the glazing that makes up an orangery naturally gives you a sense of being connected to your outdoor spaces, you still need to think through the types of patio doors that will work best to physically open it up to the garden.

This orangery was added as part of the renovation and extension of a tired Edwardian house that previously had a gloomy, unappealing kitchen. It has replaced a muddled old extension that was doing nothing to create connection with the garden.

Large French doors were selected to open up the space to the newly landscaped garden which sits at a lower level to the house.

7. Stick to a monochrome palette for an even brighter space

When it comes to small kitchen extensions there are two main schools of thought in terms of the best colours to use. One is to opt for a pale, muted palette that works to reflect all the light coming into the space, while the other is to go dark and bold in a way that makes a statement and embraces the more compact proportions.

This bright and breezy kitchen features a light-toned colour palette made up of white cabinetry, pale walls and a grey marbled worktop and splashback.

Think your kitchen flooring ideas through carefully too – they need to be practical as well as stylish. The pale wooden flooring used in this kitchen-diner helps to create a sense of space and openness.

8. Use your small orangery as a spot to eat

If you are using your small orangery for a kitchen diner, it makes sense to locate the dining spot within the main body of the glazed space where you can sit and enjoy garden views while you eat.

This type of layout also makes sense from a practical point of view. Kitchens require solid walls for the cabinets and services and so work best when located towards the rear of the space in the original house. In fact, the ratio between solid walls and glazing needs to be planned out really carefully.

"It is really important to ensure there is enough solid wall within the design to accommodate kitchen cabinetry and appliances," says Libby Taylor. "While floor-to-ceiling glazing may look appealing, a kitchen needs practical surfaces.

"Many successful schemes combine generous glazing with solid walls or raised dwarf walls, often increasing wall heights to around 900mm to allow for base units, sinks or cooking stations. Kitchen islands are also invaluable in smaller spaces, providing additional storage and preparation areas without relying solely on wall space, while also doubling as informal seating for family or guests."

9. Connect spaces with a small orangery link

If you love the idea of creating a glass link extension to join together the original section of your house with a new addition or converted outbuilding, an orangery could just be the solution you have been after. Not only can they add a beautiful and unexpected dimension, but they are also practical spaces in which to locate a kitchen.

Glass links need not function only as corridors and, if you are limited in terms of space, it makes sense to use yours for more than simple circulation.

This charming link-style orangery is the perfect addition to the period property it sits within, providing through-views from front to back.

10. Continue the experience outdoors with an orangery patio

For a really stunning finish to your kitchen orangery and to visually expand the space, why not mirror its design within your patio ideas?

This charming partially-glazed pergola provides an indoor-outdoor spot under which to linger and enjoy the garden, sheltered from the elements and sits beautifully alongside the orangery kitchen it leads off from.

Keeping any kind of structure like this light of form and open is important to ensure you don't block any light from entering your orangery space.

FAQs

Do you need planning permission for a small orangery kitchen extension?

Although some orangeries will fall under permitted development, others will require planning permission so it is worth double checking with your local planning office.

"Even small kitchen orangery extensions can attract a more involved planning process than a traditional conservatory," explains Libby Taylor. "While some projects may fall within permitted development rights, kitchens often require more substantial alterations to the existing house. Structural works such as removing walls, installing steel supports, and extending heating, drainage and electrical systems will require building regulations approval, regardless of whether planning permission is needed.

"Properties that are listed or located within conservation areas will typically require planning consent, and it is always advisable to seek professional advice early in the process to understand what is achievable within local guidelines," adds Libby.

Is there a minimum size for a small orangery kitchen?

While you might be desperate to locate your kitchen in an orangery extension, there is no point trying to shoehorn one into a space that is just too tiny – but how small is too small?

"There is no defined minimum size for a kitchen orangery – usability is determined by proportion rather than square footage alone," says Libby Taylor. "A successful kitchen orangery must comfortably accommodate the essential functions of cooking, preparation and storage, while allowing safe circulation and adequate ventilation.

"Smaller kitchen orangeries can work beautifully when the design prioritises function over excessive glazing," continues Libby. "Ultimately, it is the quality of the design, rather than the size of the room, that determines its success."

If you love the idea of a small orangery kitchen extension but are concerned about costs and the possibility of having to apply for planning permission, kitchen conservatory extensions could be a more straightforward option.

If you are after ways of adding space to your home in a super efficient and very stylish way, seeking out L-shaped kitchen extension ideas should be high on your agenda. Building an extension like this opens up all kinds of opportunities, often making the very most of every inch of available space.

"An L-shaped extension typically wraps around the ground floor, often incorporating a side and rear extension into a single, cohesive addition to the home," explains architect James Dale of James Dale Architects. "It works particularly well for kitchen renovations, as it can dramatically increase space on the ground floor, and can improve the relationship between a house and garden."

If you love the idea of a spacious kitchen that is full of light and feels connected to your outdoor spaces – and, lets face it, who wouldn't – take a look at the collection of projects we have pulled together here. From modest creations to large scale additions, there is something for everyone.

1. Use the natural zones wisely

There are several different ways to design an L-shaped kitchen extension. Structures comprising a side and rear extension are common and these are also sometimes referred to as 'wrap around extensions' due to the fact that they snake around the back and side of a house.

Internally, they make for great kitchen diners as they very naturally lend themselves to being zoned into separate cooking and eating spaces.

"This type of extension results in layouts that work exceptionally well for open-plan kitchens, allowing for distinct zones for cooking, dining, and relaxing, all sitting comfortably within one connected space," says James Dale.

This extension, designed by Delve Architects, sees the dining area located in the projecting section of the layout, meaning diners can enjoy a bright outlook while eating.

2. Be creative with your glazing choices

An L-shaped extension opens up some really interesting glazing options, allowing you to mirror the forms, or styles of windows and doors within each section, for a pleasingly cohesive end result.

Within the extension of this Victorian terrace, designed by James Dale Architects, side and rear extensions have been brought together to form a new kitchen and dining space.

While the dining area has access to the patio through aluminium glazed doors, the kitchen is cleverly lit through the use of full-height fixed glazed panels, narrow in profile so as not to take up too much wall storage space.

3. Maximise the projecting element

The stepped nature of extension ideas formed in an L-shape means the longer section often projects out into the garden space. This element of the extension is, therefore, the perfect location for an area of the home you spend a lot of time in, so you can enjoy natural light and views.

James Munro at Pace Architecture designed this L-shaped kitchen extension so that the kitchen feels as though it sits firmly within the garden, with the living and dining areas towards the back of the space, lit by glazed doors.

L-shaped kitchen extensions are one of the best ways to gain maximum space and this design also allowed for an additional utility and WC, along with a separate walk-in pantry directly off the kitchen.

4. Seriously consider a bi-fold window seat

A side and rear extension have completely transformed this traditional Victorian house, allowing for the creation of a bright, airy and distinctly modern new kitchen dining space for the family.

A large window wraps around the projecting section of the extension and incorporates bi-fold windows over a window seat, meaning the area can be opened up to the carefully landscaped garden beyond.

The side section not only benefits from a glazed ceiling to flood it with light, but also features a full height glazed door which provides access to outside.

5. Create a lightweight look using carefully chosen materials

An L-shaped extension – as opposed to a simple side return extension or small rear extension – totally changes the exterior appearance of a house, so extra care needs to be taken to ensure it doesn't overwhelm the rest of the building, or the landscape it sits within.

This L-shaped extension, designed by Pace Architecture, was designed to provide a large kitchen diner. External zinc cladding was chosen to, "reduce the overall massing of the extension and break up the facade," according to designer James Munro.

A mixture of glazing features have also been used – slimline sliding doors, large rooflights and an oriel bay window to bringlots of natural light into the home, and create a great connection with the outside.

6. Design the interior to enjoy the exterior

Kitchen extensions come in all shapes and sizes, but in the case of those that are L-shaped, you need to take into account the fact that each element, and in particularly the protruding section, will have a view of the other – so take the opportunity to create something you really enjoy looking at.

Within the ingenious design of this extension by YARD Architects, the dining area of the new space has been designed with glazed openings that allow for glimpses of the eye-catching corbelled brickwork.

The kitchen is set back slightly, and features a large window with sliding panes that allow for uninterrupted views out over the garden beyond.

7. Use modern, yet complimentary, cladding materials

The owners of this beautiful Victorian home, which had been turned into flats and seriously neglected over the years, were keen to introduce contemporary design elements that respected the original details of the building.

Pace Architecture responded to the brief by designing a metal-clad horizontal addition, which balances out the three-storey pitched original form of the building perfectly.

The earthy red of the metal cladding purposefully echoes the colour of the old brickwork, in order to unite the old and new sections visually.

8. Light your L-shaped extension from above

L-shaped kitchen extensions offer so much potential for creating a really welcoming, open kitchen, dining and living space – more so, in most cases, than other types of extension. This extended townhouse, designed by George & James Architects, is a fantastic example.

"We added an L-shaped extension, combining a side and rear extension, carefully designed to maximise the available space at the period townhouse," explains Simon Drayson, director at the practice.

"As the property faces north, bringing natural light deep into the home was central to the design approach," continues Simon. "The careful positioning of generous rooflights introduces daylight from above throughout the day, while a striking picture window in the rear elevation further enhances light levels and frames views of the garden beyond. To strengthen this indoor–outdoor relationship, large glazed doors open onto a terrace, precisely aligned with the kitchen floor level to create a seamless transition between inside and out."

9. Use glazed walls to create views from all angles

An L-shaped kitchen extension offers the potential to enjoy views over your outdoor spaces from multiple perspectives – so be sure to take full advantage of this through your choice of architectural glazing.

This kitchen extension was created as part of a Victorian house renovation and combines side and rear extensions to form a kitchen, dining and living space that has very much become the heart of the home.

By using a variety of both fixed and opening glazed apertures, as well as ceiling glazing, the homeowners can enjoy different vistas throughout the new space.

10. Consider using a different shade of brickwork

While building an extension that sits in complete contrast to the original house can be viewed upon very favourably by planners, creating some kind of cohesion between old and new remains important.

That might mean echoing the shape of the original roofline or windows, matching up colours or, as is the case in the design of this extension, by George & James Architects, using similar materials yet varying their shades.

The aim with this extension was to create a modern new space that wouldn't overwhelm the original property — the stylishly subtle blue brickwork and slimline sliding patio doors were the perfect way to do this.

If you are hoping to incorporate some clever open plan kitchen ideas into your renovation or extension project, there is no doubt that an L-shaped design is the perfect way to allow for this.

That said, don't forget to make sure that you also pay attention to making sure that your extension works with your garden too – particularly as an extension like this is so tightly connected to your outdoor space.

Side return kitchen extension ideas are up there with the best ways to add extra space in an affordable way. Also referred to as 'infill side extensions' they make use of the space found between terraced or semi-detached houses

"If you live in a terrace house with a narrow side alley space, adding a side return extension can be a very effective way to widen and transform a traditional kitchen, to deliver a more spacious living area," explains James Dale, director at James Dale Architects. "By infilling the often-overlooked side alley, this type of extension allows a kitchen to be widened rather than simply extended, creating a more balanced and usable space."

While there is not always a huge amount of space to play with for a side return kitchen extension, our round-up of ideas shows how to make the very most of this often neglected area.

1. Use modern materials to define new from old

Using side return extension ideas that sit in contrast to the original building is often an approach that planners look very favourably upon these days – a way of defining the addition as something new.

One of the best ways of achieving this distinction between old and new elements is through your choice of materials – this way, the form of the existing house can be mirrored but in a contemporary manner – plus, many modern materials are perfect for drawing in lots of extra natural daylight.

This stunning side return kitchen extension idea, designed by Pace Architecture, is clad in zinc and features a full-height picture window which, in conjunction with the glazed ceiling, means the new kitchen-diner within is flooded with light.

2. Use a glass link for your side return kitchen extension

Large expanses of glazing work so well when it comes to side return kitchen extensions, pulling in light despite the lack of the wide open space that is usually required in order to make an extension feel bright and airy.

This kitchen extension, designed by Sketch Architects, has been added to the side of a previously dilapidated terraced house as a way not only of adding extra space but also to draw light into the remodelled interiors.

Full-height glazing connects the original and new sections, while the whole thing has been wrapped in timber cladding to soften the look and tie it into the garden space.

3. Add a pivot door to open up to the garden

Unlike rear or wraparound extensions, large-scale sliding and bifold doors won't always work for side return kitchen extensions due to their narrower proportions – a more creative approach is therefore needed.

In order to create the modern kitchen the homeowners craved for this project, architect James Dale responded by designing a side infill which features a large, frameless pivot door to connect the space with the garden and pull in plenty of light.

"A dark galley kitchen was reimagined as a bright, open-plan kitchen and living space through the addition of a side infill kitchen extension," picks up James Dale. "The new layout improves circulation and storage, creating an interior that is both more practical and more inviting.

"Carefully positioned glazing plays a key role in the transformation, with generous rooflights drawing daylight deep into the plan and a contemporary oriel window introduced at the rear elevation to create a unique connection to the garden."

The exterior of the new structure has been clad in eye-catching blue encaustic tile.

4. Make structural elements a feature of your side return kitchen

When building an extension of any kind, it is not always necessary to conceal all the support work that has gone into creating it – in fact, leaving it exposed and turning it into a feature can be a great way to add character to the new space.

This side return kitchen extension, designed by James Dale Architects, combines a rear extension with a side infill to create a bright new kitchen space complete with large, sociable island.

Keen to include plenty of colour into the new room, the owners chose to paint the exposed steel beam between the two new additions a zingy shade of orange, which complements the blue kitchen perfectly.

5. Use angled side return glazing to increase the spread of light

If you don't include some form of glazing into your side return kitchen extension then you really are missing a fantastic opportunity to bring in additional natural light. There are many ways in which to add glass elements into your design too.

This new kitchen-diner has been formed using a side extension housing the dining area of the space, above which a bank of huge rooflights has been installed, shedding an enormous amount of light down onto this sociable area.

Thanks to the angle of the new ceiling glazing, the light not only benefits the dining space, but reaches into the kitchen too, in particular the large multi-tasking island where it is needed the most.

6. Incorporate artificial lighting into rooflights

Keen for their extension to give them a large, sociable kitchen-diner in what was previously a disjointed house lacking in light, the owners of this house appointed James Dale Architects to help.

Both a rear and side return kitchen extension have been added to create the new space with wide glazed doors opening up the side addition to the garden beyond.

A section of fixed ceiling glazing runs the depth of the extension to light the space further and has been fitted with spotlights that can take over the job of illumination once the sun sets.

7. Take architectural glazing to the max

Side return kitchen extensions are often pretty modest affairs, added in order to eek as much space as possible out of compact, terraced houses – but they are not always small and subtle, as this project, designed by Scenario Architecture proves.

This Victorian semi-detached house has been totally opened up from front to back in order to create a bright, modern home for family life. Part of its transformation was a brick-fronted side extension to provide a striking new kitchen-diner, complete with sliding doors.

Internally the space enjoys maximum light thanks to the huge amount of architectural glazing that has been incorporated into the design, both internally and externally.

8. Respect the fabric of the building

In some cases, creating something that sits wildly in contrast with the original building just isn't the order of the day – in which case finding ways to absorb side extensions smoothly into the existing interior scheme should be a priority.

The aim of the side kitchen extension to this Victorian terraced property, designed by Delve Architects, was to open up the kitchen with a spacious dining area at the same time as bringing a little extra light into the ground floor of the house.

Keen to incorporate restored original features within the renovation project, such as the metal patio doors, the interior scheme as a whole is bright and eclectic yet will stand the test of time.

9. Have fun with the roofline of a side kitchen extension

A side return kitchen extension need not be boring, as this unusual, striking design, by Scenario Architecture proves.

Designed as part of the expansion and renovation of a Victorian house, internally the layout has been designed to step down from the main kitchen area and houses a bright dining space, lit by a large picture window facing the garden and a wide modern window seat to the side.

Externally, the roofline features stepped brickwork, in keeping with the multi-level nature of the rest of the building.

10. Enjoy a symmetrical finish with a pitched roofline

Some of the most successful kitchen extension ideas combine both a side return extension as well as a rear extension – and this is definitely a great way to maximise space.

This kitchen-diner extension by Delve Architects has a pitched roof and projects out into the garden, onto a patio space, but has also made use of the previously wasted side passage that ran alongside the house.

Internally, the pitch of the roof has been left exposed, with the glazed section pleasingly mirroring the solid side opposite. Exposed beams, metal-framed doors and windows and industrial-style lighting complete the rustic look.

FAQs

How much do side return kitchen extensions cost?

Side return extensions can be one of the most cost-effective ways to add both space and value to a house.

Obviously the extension costs you end up facing will very much depend on its size, your location, the materials you use for its construction and any special features you need to take into account.

According to architect James Munro of Pace Architecture, expect to pay between £2,500 to £3,500/m2 plus VAT. If you plan on using it for a new kitchen, you will also need to factor in this cost.

Once you have your new space, make sure you really squeeze the most out of it with the right kitchen layout ideas. You will want to come up with designs that benefit from the additional light and views that the new structure will hopefully have given you.

There is a reason why terraced house kitchen extension ideas are so highly sought after – they can totally transform both the exterior and interior layouts of these types of houses in a way that suits homeowners' expectations of what a home should offer us these days.

Building an extension is the perfect way to create a bright, open, sociable kitchen in a terraced house, particularly those constructed during the Georgian and Victorian eras. These were periods where far less emphasis was placed on the importance of the space that is now frequently considered to be one of the most vital rooms to get right.

We've pulled together 10 of the best examples of terraced house kitchen extensions around to give you all the inspiration you need to start planning your new addition.

1. Use your extension to pull light deep into the house

While the layouts of terraced houses are not all exactly the same, this is a style of house that does tend to have some recurring features. One of these is that awkward 'middle room' that often lies between a reception room at the front of the house and a small kitchen at the rear. This space often won't feature any windows meaning finding ways to brighten it up can be tricky.

This is where the right kitchen extension ideas can help, allowing for the addition of large expanses of glazing and opening up the floorplan of a house that may previously have been made up of a number of smaller rooms and corridors.

The extension of this house was designed by architect James Munro of Pace Architecture. Thanks to the addition of large sliding doors and a number of rooflights, not only does the new kitchen have a fantastic connection with the garden, but it also acts as a way of bringing in light to the living spaces beyond. A 'pod' extension, complete with its own roof terrace, has also been added to the second floor.

2. Create contrast with cladding

While there is much to be said for designing a kitchen extension to tie in with the existing house, creating contrast can be a nice way to acknowledge the evolution of a building.

"There is no single answer to the best way to extend a terraced house," says William Dewar, director at Sketch Architects. "Much depends on what you are hoping to achieve and the budget available. Different forms of extension lend themselves to different needs, whether that is gaining extra bedrooms, improving everyday living space, or unlocking previously underused areas of the home."

This striking kitchen extension, designed by Delve Architects, is strikingly modern in contrast to the rest of the house, with its dark stained larch cladding. Internally, the kitchen feels fresh and modern thanks to its restricted palette of materials, window seat to the side and bifold doors.

3. Set your house apart from the others with an eye-catching design

There is something pleasing about the uniformity of a row of beautiful period terraced houses, but that isn't to say that you can't get a little creative with your kitchen extension. In fact, this is the perfect way to set your home apart from those it is attached to.

This might mean incorporating an interesting type of roof into your extension's design or, as with this stunning example, using materials you might not expect to see on this style of property.

This London terrace was made up of a collection of smaller rooms and the owners were keen to create a larger kitchen and living space. In response, James Dale Architects added side and rear extensions with glazed doors. The metal-framed glazing, teamed with green H&E Smith metro tiles, give the whole thing a beautiful vintage vibe.

4. Make the most of a cellar or basement

Many Georgian and Victorian terraced houses were built with cellars or basements, originally designed as cold stores. However, these days they can be the perfect spot to house a new kitchen extension.

"This solution can deliver valuable additional space on small plots, suitable for a variety of functions," picks up William Dewar. "However, basement conversions are typically one of the more expensive and complex ways to increase your internal space, especially in a terrace house. They often require additional permissions, detailed structural design, and specialist construction methods to ensure the space is usable and doesn’t impact the neighbouring properties.

"At Chivalry Road (above), we extended an existing basement to create a fully usable and welcoming kitchen and living space," continues William. "Through careful design, the subterranean level is now bright, spacious, and connected to the rest of the home. A key to the design was introducing natural daylight and to achieve this we placed a large rooflight directly above the basement staircase, to draw light deep into the plan."

5. Use the full width of your plot for maximum space

Even if your terraced house is on the smaller side, there are ways of adding a beautiful, bright kitchen extension – particularly if you use the full width of the plot. This might mean a simple flat roof extension, but combining a side and rear extension also makes sense.

"If you are looking to increase your living space then a side or rear extension offers an opportunity to transform your home," explains William Dewar. "These extensions are well suited for creating generous, open-plan kitchen and living spaces, with a strong connection to the garden."

For the extension of this Victorian terrace, designed by Delve Architects, the entire breath of the plot has been utilised. By continuing the simple palette of materials from inside to out, the entire space feels cohesive and considered.

6. Consider your landscaping within the design

Where space is particularly limited, as can be the case with terraced house renovations situated on very narrow plots, it really does pay to tie the extension together seamlessly with the garden. Joining the two spaces together using both form and materials somehow has the effect of stretching the whole thing visually.

YARD Architects, the designers behind this kitchen extension, were working with a very restricted plot and responded by designing a timber framed extension composed of larch studs infilled with matching larch cladding.

This same material has been used within the courtyard garden and complements the colour palette of the house beautifully. In addition to the rear extension, a loft conversion was also incorporated to expand the space.

7. Don't underestimate the power of window and door design

Clever window and door design can be key to the success of any kind of kitchen extension but is particularly useful when it comes to terraced house kitchen extensions due to the way in which these glazed openings can bring in light to a space that really will benefit from being well lit, as well as help to marry it up with the garden.

When working with a tight space, it is important to think through how your choice of patio doors or opening glazing will work with its proportions and how their design could make the most of it.

This eye-catching extension, designed by James Dale Architects, features pocket sliding doors that take up no space when opened up, along with a large picture that provides a spot to perch both inside and out. Blue terracotta tiles and larch cladding finish off the structure perfectly.

8. Don't discount an interesting roofline

There are definitely many benefits to flat roofed extensions, not least that they are often one of the most cost effective options, but exploring other types of roof is well worth it when it comes to terrace house extensions.

For this extension, designed by Delve Architects, a saw-tooth pitched roof was constructed, chosen due to the way in which this type of design can help to provide a sense of space and air deep into a floor plan, at the same time as maintaining a low profile often favoured by planners, particularly in conservation areas.

Interestingly, all demolition materials were reused within this new extension, including reclaimed brickwork for the exterior walls and rubble waste for drainage hardcore.

9. Build your extension with sustainability in mind

There are so many reasons to build a green extension that go beyond just helping the planet. Designing and building a sustainable kitchen extension can mean it feels more comfortable to spend time thanks to a focus on reducing heat loss. You can also look forward to lower energy bills – plus green homes often help with a general sense of wellbeing.

This striking kitchen extension was built using a timber frame and utilises both cork insulation and cork cladding. It was built to replace a previously dark and cramped kitchen and is now flooded with light, enjoying clear sightlines over the garden.

If you really want to secure your new extension's eco-credentials, consider fitting it out with a second-hand kitchen too.

10. Find ways to bring in light from above

Ceiling glazing and rooflights are one of the best ways of bringing light into extensions where there might not be enough free wall space for standard windows – and in a kitchen extension you want to keep as much wall space free as possible for storage.

While there are many advantages to incorporating swathes of glazed patio doors into a kitchen extension, the light that comes in from above, through a partially glazed ceiling or bank of rooflights, for example, is quite different, offering a clear, bright quality.

This mid-terrace Victorian property enjoys both side and rear extensions, designed by George & James Architects. The addition features both a striking north-facing picture window as well as large rooflights meaning the whole space feels bright and breezy.

FAQs

Will a terraced house kitchen extension require planning permission?

The good news for owners of terraced houses wanting to add a kitchen extension is that, in many cases, it will not be necessary to apply for planning permission to do so, assuming it is not listed or in a conservation area. That said, you will need to ensure it meets the criteria for permitted development and do double check with your local planning office if in any doubt.

Additionally, it is very likely that you will need a Party Wall Agreement when extending a terraced house given that the work may well affect walls shared with your neighbours.

If you are looking at ways of saving money on your new kitchen space and are asking 'do I need an architect for my extension?' it is well worth taking into account the added value they can bring to a project like this. While you might not be planning a huge addition, getting a smaller structure spot on in a way that makes the most of a restricted plot is, in some cases, even harder than when playing with an expansive space.

The importance of maximising light when adding a kitchen extension is often overlooked, yet this is something that marks the difference between an addition that adds both space and value to a house and one that comes at the expense of existing spaces.

Building an extension should not only be about adding physical capacity to a property – it should also be based on a design that improves overall flow and actually enhances the original building. Sadly, all too often, too much emphasis is placed on achieving that extra space without thought being given to what the new section will feel like to spend time in. At a basic level, your two main priorities should be to pull in as much light as possible to your extension, at the same time as being vigilant that the new structure won't block light from the rooms it is being built off.

We reached out to some trusted architectural experts for their advice on maximising light in an extension to ensure your project is nothing but beneficial to the way you live in your home.

How to maximise light in a kitchen extension

While you might think that you've got everything covered when planning out your kitchen extension ideas – layout, appliances, storage and so on – one thing that is often overlooked is how much natural light this new space will receive and how the provision of this will impact the amount of units you are able to incorporate.

With this in mind, our guide looks at the best ways of pulling in light at the same time as achieving your dream kitchen.

Use rooflights and ceiling glazing

This has to be the best way of getting the very most natural light into any type of extension, but in the kitchen, where wall space is precious, it is particularly useful. Bringing in light from above with ceiling glazing and rooflights will also help overcome any issues with your extension blocking light from existing 'middle' rooms.

"By adding an extension to a building, the room that once had an external wall with windows becomes isolated deep inside the house and daylight can be an issue," explains architect David Nossiter of David Nossiter Architects. "To resolve this, I nearly always add a large rooflight where the extension joins the existing building. I like to make my rooflights align with the internal features of the build, where possible. It just makes things looked considered and the cost of a bespoke rooflight is generally not greatly different to a quality off-the-peg one."

"A common challenge when adding a rear extension to a terraced house is that the central area can be left feeling dark and disconnected from the outdoors," agrees Neil Gaskin, director of Sketch Architects. "One effective solution to combat this is to install rooflights or skylights at the junction between the old and new, allowing natural light to be drawn deep into the kitchen and the rest of the home, whilst also creating a stunning feature of the interior."

Use glazed patio doors – carefully

The benefits of large, glazed patio doors cannot be underemphasised. Not only do they create a fantastic connection to outdoor spaces, even allowing homeowners to open up their kitchens almost entirely to the outside when the sun decides to shine, but they also draw in tonnes of natural light.

However, for all their plus points, there are a couple of factors to take into consideration when using them within a kitchen extension – with the main one being the fact that they will mean sacrificing wall space that could otherwise be used for citing a run of units.

"Another impactful design element to consider is slim-frame patio doors," advises Neil Gaskin. "These minimalist doors not only enhance the flow of light into the space but also give the illusion of a larger opening. By extending the patio doors to the full height of the ceiling, you can add a sense of volume, elevating the overall feel of the kitchen extension and boosting the natural light levels."

Both bifold and sliding patio doors are smart choices. Sliding doors tend to be available with slimmer frames, meaning more light and better views, while bifolds can be opened up completely during warm weather.

Consider corner windows

Corner windows – that is those that wrap around two walls of an extension – can really help boost those natural light levels, as well as giving multi-dimensional views.

Often, this style of window will be fixed, as with picture windows, another great idea in kitchen extensions. The beauty of fixed glazing such as this, is that it can be specified in very large sizes, with minimal framing.

While we're on the topic of more unusual glazing, take some time to consider bifold windows. Like their close relative, the bifold door, these slide and fold up against a wall to create one large opening that allows lots of light in. Unlike doors, however, they allow for units to be fitted beneath.

Combine several types of windows

Most kitchen extensions tend to benefit from using a combination of different types of windows, strategically placed, as opposed to just one large glazed opening.

It might be that you choose to have roof glazing installed at the junction between the old and new sections, large sliding doors leading to the garden and a more standard-sized window elsewhere, for example.

In the case of flat roof extensions, don't miss the opportunity to incorporate a roof lantern or some ceiling glazing – both work particularly well over kitchen islands and in kitchen diners and can also be fitted with lights in order to illuminate the area below once night falls.

Choose a kitchen layout that allows light to flow

You might not have given much thought to the way in which your kitchen layout ideas will affect how light your extension feels, but it really can impact hugely.

While there isn't necessarily a 'best' layout, you need to ensure that the positioning of your units is designed in conjunction with the location of your light sources.

That said, L-shaped kitchen ideas are great for open plan kitchen diners as they allow light to spill through to the dining area really well – U-shaped layouts with a central island can work in a similar way.

If you are working with kitchen diner ideas, aim to locate the kitchen in the existing section that is being opened up, or at the 'back' of the new extension where it will benefit from shared light. The dining area, which won't need base and wall units, can be cited within the more heavily glazed spot.

When it comes to layout mistakes, avoid placing full-height or wall units either side of windows as they will prevent light entering and fully spreading into the space.

Choose your materials and finishes to reflect light

Alongside your choice of glazing and your layout, the materials you use for your units, flooring and finishes can also help increase how light the space feels.

Sticking to a colour palette that lies to the lighter end of the scale is a good idea and, while glossy units are currently rather out of favour when it comes to kitchen trends, the use of mirrors, placed to reflect natural light back into the room is hugely beneficial.

Pale, creamy natural stones, such as marble and limestone work well at keeping kitchen extensions feeling airy and bright when used on floors and worktops, and bare wood finishes also help with a breezy look.

FAQs

How to avoid overheating in a kitchen extension?

It can be tempting to go a little overboard with glazing when trying to get as much light into your new addition as possible, but you need to take care here and look into how to prevent overheating in homes. Depending on the orientation of your extension, you could well end up with a space that feels uncomfortably warm to spend time in when the sun is streaming in.

"We would always recommend investing in high quality, high spec glazing units – this is not an area you want to cut the budget on, otherwise your property might not be comfortable throughout the year," explains Neil Gaskin. "It's also important to check whether you are likely to need solar control glazing. Whether you’re looking to maximise daylight or minimise heat gain, the right glazing can make all the difference in creating a sustainable, comfortable home."

If you are really concerned that your new addition won't feel light enough, take a look at our round-up of glazed kitchen extension ideas – guaranteed to result in a space that will be full of natural light throughout the day.

The question of where to put a kitchen island in a kitchen extension might seem like an odd one, but there are actually some key considerations that need to be understood if you want your kitchen extension ideas to work well.

Kitchen extensions are one of the most popular projects undertaken by homeowners. This is largely due to the way in which we use this space these days – not just as somewhere to prepare and cook food, but also often to enjoy meals and welcome in guests for get togethers.

The kitchen island is a highly desirable feature, but its placement is key to the success of any layout, particularly in the case of newly extended spaces. Here, we explain how to locate an island in just the right spot so you can get maximum enjoyment out of your new addition.

Why knowing where to put a kitchen island in a kitchen extension matters

You might wonder why the position of a kitchen island in an extension should be any more difficult to decide on than for an existing space, yet there are several reasons why a little more thought can be a good thing here.

A kitchen extension often presents homeowners with the opportunity to create a greater connection with their gardens or to bring in more natural light and you want to ensure your new kitchen island ideas take advantage of this. In addition, this is a chance to totally remodel your existing space and your island can really make or break the finished layout.

"The positioning of a kitchen island is crucial, as it needs to balance functionality with the flow of the space," explains interior designer Claire Garner of Claire Garner Design Studios.

Should a kitchen island be centred?

When designing a kitchen, islands are often located in the very middle of the space, but is this always the best approach?

"The island should feel like a natural extension of the room, enhancing its functionality and flow while remaining mindful of proportions and how the space is used daily," explains Claire Garner. "In a kitchen extension, an island can work beautifully when placed centrally, but this depends on the layout and how the island interacts with the rest of the room."

"The placement of an island in a kitchen extension depends on the size, layout and function of the space, but it doesn’t always need to be central," says Molly Chandler, designer at Willis & Stone. "A central island works well in large, open-plan extensions, creating a balanced focal point and enabling easy access from all sides. However, in narrower or asymmetrical spaces, positioning the island slightly off-centre or aligned with specific zones, such as the cooking area or a dining table, may improve the flow."

Give some thought to the 'working triangle'

Although the kitchen triangle is often thought of as a little dated these days, its concept remains a sound one. It basically means keeping the three most visited areas of the kitchen – the cooker, sink and fridge – in a roughly triangular layout. This makes it easier to switch between them.

Of course these days there tend to be additional appliances that need to be taken into consideration, such as the dishwasher, and there is also the fact that hobs are now often separate to ovens which you may need to take into account.

That said, keeping in mind the need for a smooth transition between the functional spots in your kitchen can help when it comes to island placement.

"You’ll want to consider the work triangle, which focuses on the relationship between the sink, hob and fridge to ensure the island doesn’t obstruct this flow but rather complements it," explains Claire Garner.

If you plan on locating your oven, hob and sink within your island, be mindful that you will need easy-access to the fridge and dishwasher from wherever it is placed.

Position the island to take advantage of any views

If you are a fan of glass kitchen extensions, or have designed an extension with lots of glazing, perhaps in the form of bi-fold or sliding doors, you want to be able to stand at your kitchen island and enjoy the natural light and views.

"A new kitchen extension offers an opportunity to create a social hub for all the family to enjoy, whilst making the most of your room's features such as natural light and outdoor views," says Sophie Devonald, designer at Crown Imperial.

"For example, a space opening onto a garden makes a perfect zone for the dining table, complemented by a kitchen incorporating a central cooking island, making it easy to converse, serve food and for everyone to enjoy the views."

Consider how you will use the island

To make sure you are locating your island in the best place within your extension it really does pay to think about how you plan on using it. Do you envisage it becoming the spot at which you prepare, cook and clean up? Or are you aiming for more of a sociable spot to gather around for casual meals or drinks?

If it is the former, then it will need to be located closer to the rest of the practical areas, such as runs of units and work surfaces, while latter will benefit from being placed away from the busy, steamy spots in the room.

"If it’s multi-functional, it’s worth integrating storage, seating or even a sink," adds Claire Garner. "Kitchen island lighting is another key factor. I love to use pendant lighting over the island to create a focal point, while also providing task lighting."

Use the island to create zones

Kitchen diner design always needs to take into account the need for some kind of division between the food preparation spaces and the eating area.

If your kitchen extension has opened up a layout that was previously made up of separate rooms, into an open plan space, perhaps incorporating a dining and seating area, your kitchen island can be positioned in a such as a way that it helps create some kind of division.

"Islands are great for zoning larger open-plan spaces," says Sophie Devonald. "Carefully consider the flow and how you want to use your new statement piece to create a seamless fusion between kitchen, dining and living spaces.”

"Take into account the transition between the kitchen and adjoining spaces, such as living or dining areas, and position the island to define zones, while still ensuring the space feels open," adds Molly Chandler. "Ultimately, the island should feel like a natural, functional element within the kitchen, rather than a rigidly placed centrepiece."

Work with what you have

And, finally, it is important to recognise that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to the location of a kitchen island in a kitchen extension. The kitchen island shapes, sizes and positions that work in one kind of space could be totally inappropriate in another.

"It is important to look at the entire kitchen extension project from a holistic perspective, ensuring you achieve practical, social and stylish zones that flow on every level," explains Sophie Devonald.

"Work with a professional kitchen designer to explore all your options as they can offer advice on the practicalities, such as the layout of the essential services for a kitchen island, and help personalise the design to suit your individual lifestyle needs."

FAQs

How much space do you need for a kitchen island?

Kitchen islands come in all kinds of shapes and sizes meaning that most kitchens can benefit from one. That said, it is important not to simply shoehorn one in, rendering the space unusable.

If you are considering small kitchen island ideas, you need to ensure that you have at least one metre of clearance space between your island and any runs of units.

If you find you just can't squeeze one in, consider an island on wheels instead. These can be moved out of the way when not in use but still provide useful extra work space.

Shop these portable kitchen islands if space is limited

Can you have an island in a galley kitchen?

Designing a galley kitchen needs careful thought if you want to ensure the space doesn't feel cramped. Galley kitchens and one-wall kitchens can still benefit from an island, although its size and position will need to be even more carefully considered than with other kitchen layouts.

"In galley kitchens, an island can work if there’s sufficient width to maintain clear walkways on either side," advises Claire Garner. "Ideally, you need at least 1 to 1.2 metres of clearance to allow for ease of movement and practicality."

Ready to get started on your kitchen extension? First, find out how much a kitchen island costs so you can make sure you budget accordingly.

In a Victorian villa in West London, the kitchen and dining area underwent a dramatic transformation.

The redesign turned a dim, cramped space into a functional and light-filled hub for modern family living.

We take a look at how this kitchen extension was done and how it brought this home into the 21st century using four new practical zones.

Demolition and reconstruction

The existing rear extension, which failed to optimise the space or light, was completely demolished.

This provided a blank slate for creating a modern extension tailored to the homeowners' needs. Part of the homeowners remit was to create a more light filled area with practicality in mind.

These structural changes laid the foundation for a carefully designed layout divided into four zones, each tailored for specific functions.

Kitchen extension split into four zones

The open-plan layout was divided into four distinct zones to optimise functionality:

• Kitchen: Bespoke cabinetry, designed by HUX London, incorporated hidden storage solutions and sleek, minimalist finishes. The cabinets were built to blend with the overall design while providing ample storage.
• Island: A timber-clad island was installed at the heart of the kitchen. It serves as a food preparation area and a casual gathering spot, effectively bridging the kitchen and dining areas.
• Dining area: A mid-century dining table and chairs were added to make this a kitchen diner extension with an overhead skylight.
• Lounge: Adjacent to the kitchen, a comfortable Roche Bobois corner sofa offers a space for relaxation, ensuring the open-plan area meets both social and functional needs.

The flooring in the new extension features embossed porcelain tiles, chosen for their durability and low maintenance, while metal mosaic inlays add a touch of craftsmanship.

Lighting and flow

Careful attention was paid to lighting, with concealed fittings and strategically placed fixtures ensuring the space is well-lit throughout the day and night.

The kitchen extension comes with two skylights protruding through the artex (textured plaster) ceiling with a maze-like pattern.

A Velux window was installed in the kitchen as well, which further enhances the flow of light throughout the interior, including the kitchen-dining area, contributing to the bright and open feel of the space.

This transformation of the kitchen-dining area illustrates how thoughtful design can breathe new life into a period home, creating a space that is both modern and deeply functional without compromising its heritage.

Integration with the outdoors

The sliding glass doors and large windowpane seamlessly integrate the indoor and outdoor spaces, with matching porcelain tiles extending into the garden path to create visual continuity.

These elements create a sense of openness, making the garden feel like a natural extension of the kitchen-dining area.

Altogether the kitchen extension cost £40,000 to complete.

There are many pros and cons to consider when looking at open plan vs broken plan kitchen extensions and deciding which one will work best for you.

The type of kitchen extensions that suit one kind of home or lifestyle may well not be at all suitable for another, which is why it is so important to understand the upsides and downsides of each route.

For some time now, homeowners creating kitchen extensions seem to have favoured an open plan approach and, while this hasn't totally fallen from favour, there has been a definite move towards a more 'broken plan' approach. Here, with the help of some experts, we explain the differences between the two and what each can offer.

Open plan vs broken plan kitchen extensions explained

Kitchen trends are constantly changing and what was the hottest must-have at the beginning of the year may well look totally out-of-date by the end of it.

If you are planning a kitchen extension you will have all kinds of decisions ahead of you, from the style of units you opt for to the kind of layout that will best suit your new space.

If you are finding it hard to decide whether a totally open plan kitchen layout will suit you better than a broken plan design, let our guide help you make the right choice.

What is an open plan kitchen extension?

First things first, it is important to understand what is meant by an open plan kitchen extension.

In general, this kind of layout involves building an extension in a way that opens up several spaces to one another. For example, rather than having the kitchen as an entirely separate space, in an open plan extension, it would become integrated into a single area, along with a dining zone and, in many cases, a living space too.

What is meant by broken plan?

While broken plan kitchen extensions do have some similarities with open plan designs, they are actually quite different.

Rather than being totally open, a broken plan set-up (also sometimes referred to as semi-open plan) will feature some form of divide between the various 'zones' within the space. This could be through half walls, room dividers or larger items of furniture such as full height shelves.

Sometimes, glazed doors or even fixed glass panels are used to separate areas without blocking the flow of light.

Shop room dividers

What are the pros of open plan kitchen extensions?

While there has definitely been a shift towards more definition within open plan living set ups, it is important to look at what this kind of layout can offer those extending their kitchens.

"Open-plan extensions create a seamless, airy flow that merges the kitchen, dining and living areas – perfect for entertaining, family time and maximising natural light with features like bi-fold doors or skylights," explains Katerina Tchevytchalova, director and interior designer at K'Arte Design.

The benefits don't stop there though.

"Open plan kitchen extensions can help stimulate social interaction due to their spacious feel," points out Matthew O'Grady, director at Thomas Matthew Kitchens & Furniture. "They also tend to allow more natural light to enter the space.

"Open plan layouts are best used in larger kitchens with lots of windows and high ceilings, as they thrive on natural light to be appreciated," adds Matthew.

What are the cons of open plan kitchen extensions?

For all their benefits, there is a reason why completely open plan layouts have been waning in their popularity in recent years.

"Choosing between open-plan and broken-plan kitchen extensions depends on your lifestyle and priorities," points out Katerina Tchevytchalova. "However, open plan kitchen extensions do mean less privacy and cooking smells can spread throughout the space."

If you have your heart set on this type of extension then do think through how you will manage noise transfer between the various areas. For example, if your living room will be part of your open plan kitchen extension, will anyone watching television in the space be able to hear what is going on while another member of the household is clattering about in the kitchen with the extractor fan on full pelt to prevent cooking steam and odours drifting between the multiple zones?

What are the pros of broken plan kitchen extensions?

Once you start to look into the advantages of broken plan kitchen extension ideas it isn't too hard to see why they seem to be overtaking open plan set-ups in the popularity stakes.

"Many homeowners have fallen out of love with open plan living spaces," says Victoria Brocklesby, COO at Origin Global.

"Broken plan extensions offer a balance of connection and separation," explains Katerina Tchevytchalova. "By using partial walls, screens or different floor levels, you can create distinct areas for specific activities, regulate temperatures more easily and keep cooking smells contained.

"This approach is ideal for those who value privacy and varied aesthetics in each room, though it might not feel as open, or light-filled."

"Broken plan is better because it has all the benefits of open plan but with added privacy," states Matthew O'Grady. "This is achieved by dividing an area with screens or partial barriers to create public and private spaces.

"Something as simple as installing sliding doors in the kitchen allows you to close off the cooking area to avoid foul smells travelling," continues Matthew. "Building a half-wall for functionality can also partially divide the kitchen from adjacent areas while keeping it welcoming."

"A broken plan kitchen extension gives the kitchen more personality and flexibility, therefore I'd highly recommend this route," further adds Matthew.

What are the cons of a broken plan kitchen extension?

While all the experts we spoke to seemed to be slightly more in favour of a broken plan approach to kitchen ideas, they were also happy to point out some of their downsides.

"They can be more costly, depending on the materials used to separate zones," says Matthew O'Grady "They can also limit natural light flow."

"Broken-plan living is not without its potential drawbacks," agrees Victoria Brocklesby. "Breaking a living space up can run the risk of creating dark, cramped rooms that lack natural light. When designing such spaces, it's vital to prioritise natural light."

The verdict

Armed with a little more information on the pros and cons, differences and similarities between open plan and broken plan kitchens, you should have a clearer idea of which will work for you when designing a kitchen.

"Ultimately, neither is inherently better – it’s about what suits your needs," explains Katerina Tchevytchalova. "Work with an architect to design a space tailored to your lifestyle."

If you are happy to accept a little noise transfer between spaces, as well as wafting cooking smells, then there are lots of upsides to an open plan layout. However, a broken plan set-up does tend to offer a little more in the way of flexibility when it comes to how you will be able to use the new space.

FAQs

How can you make a broken plan kitchen extension a success?

If you love the idea of a more flexible type of kitchen extension that allows for a little more division than open plan can offer, what tips should you pay attention to in order to end up with a happy end result that still enjoys plenty of natural light?

"Internal glazed doors are the perfect solution to this, as they can serve as a functional way to divide a room without inhibiting the flow of natural light," advises Victoria Brocklesby. "When open, they can create open plan spaces that are perfect for entertaining. When closed, rooms can be divided into separate, functional spaces for work, leisure and living."

Matthew O'Grady has a few more words of wisdom on how your kitchen island ideas could help.

"A kitchen island unit can serve as a partition, with one half designated for meal preparation and the other for informal get-togethers or study sessions," suggests Matthew. "To keep the kitchen space roomy, I also strongly advise using pull-out pantries and under-counter storage. I would also highlight kitchen partitions and add visual interest with textural materials like stone or reclaimed wood."

Before deciding on either option you should look into kitchen extension costs to come up with a budget for your new addition.

If you're considering adding a kitchen extension, orangery kitchen extension ideas can certainly fulfil your needs. Their perfect combination of light, space and a sufficient amount of solid walls to make the space more practical, ensures they are a recipe for success.

And although they are considered a more traditional conservatory design, they can also feature more contemporary finishes to suit modern homes, providing a pleasant aesthetic contrast of styles both inside and out.

Keen to see more? We've rounded up 10 orangery kitchen extension ideas to help inspire you as well as some top tips from the experts.

Why are orangery kitchen extension ideas so appealing?

If you're wondering why orangery kitchen extension ideas are a popular choice when it comes to kitchen extension ideas, "extending your kitchen with an orangery creates a light and airy room at the heart of any home," says George Lucas, marketing designer at Vale Garden Houses. "It's a versatile space where the whole family can spend time together and a vital link between the home and garden."

There are also several key benefits to the design that make it ideal for an open plan kitchen, dining and living space, as Virginia Murray, director of Mozolowski & Murray explains:

• A central roof lantern floods the space with natural light
• The part solid roof design provides structure and thermal efficiency
• Integrated lighting and sound technology can be seamlessly added, enhancing the space for evening use and entertainment
• Electric or heat-sensitive roof vents can be included, automatically opening and closing based on temperature or rain detection
• Brick or stone pillars provide a solid, classic structure
• Bespoke joinery and finishes ensure the orangery delivers a classic exterior, with a quality finish internally

Orangery kitchen extension ideas

1. Make the most of your view

With one of the main appeals of orangery kitchen extension ideas being the connection between the indoors and outdoors, the layout of furniture and the placement of windows and doors is essential to the success of your new room.

“There are certain implications you would need to consider when locating furniture and appliances in an orangery kitchen extension," says Mervyn Montgomery, joint director of Hampton Conservatories.

"From a design point of view, it means you may want to put appliances in the main body of the kitchen," he says, "so as to not block any views to the outdoors and make the space appear more open." Something you will need to remember when choosing kitchen appliances.

It's also advice that's executed perfectly in this orangery kitchen extension idea which houses a run of tall kitchen units on the back internal wall, freeing up the external wall for a row of windows above the sink area.

2. Install a multi-width roof lantern

Although ceiling glazing in the form of roof lanterns is a key feature of an orangery extension, your lantern doesn't have to be the same size along the whole length of the room.

While solid sections of ceiling above the kitchen appliances and cooking zones can be beneficial – offering not just shade, but also the chance to more easily run wiring for lighting and the best kitchen extractor fan, for seating or dining areas why not extend the width of the lantern to flood these areas with natural light?

It also helps to subtly signify the different zones in an open plan living space, without the use of walls.

3. Choose a monochrome palette for a contemporary yet classical finish

For a modern take on a classical design, a colour palette of black and white can be the ideal combination for a finish that is contemporary yet elegant.

"The modern kitchen extension is often talked about as the heart of the home," says Karen Bell, sales & marketing director at David Salisbury. "It's a place where we hope to combine the many functions of contemporary living: whether this is a morning cup of coffee or a relaxing weekend lunch, or supervising homework whilst cooking a Sunday roast. Open plan orangery kitchen extension ideas provide a lot of functionality and the right design to help you achieve these goals."

The dark framed windows, doors and roof lanterns add to the solid feel of this orangery kitchen extension, while the light worktops, modern aluminium finished appliances and stone kitchen flooring idea, creates an overall look that is the perfect backdrop for any modern family home.

4. Create contrast with a bespoke circular lantern

One of the over-riding benefits of orangery kitchen extension ideas is that they are usually bespoke items, crafted to suit not just your practical needs, but also your design tastes.

This not only gives you freedom in terms of colour, finish and size, but also the opportunity to add a twist, such as this orangery kitchen extension from David Salisbury that features a circular roof lantern as opposed to the more standard square or rectangular version.

Creating a pleasing contrast against the naturally linear design of a kitchen, it takes it one step further with the addition of an unusual pendant light – a crystal chandelier. Who said kitchen lighting ideas had to be boring? Certainly not us.

5. Plan your layout carefully

When it comes to your orangery kitchen extension idea functioning well on a practical level, getting your kitchen layout ideas right is essential. This design from Vale Garden Houses takes a balanced approach by punctuating each end of the room with a different zone.

At one end you have the kitchen area, while the other end is allocated to a seating zone. In the middle, a simple dining table allows homeowners to eat and enjoy the view, while the roof lantern above provides ample lighting to both the kitchen and communal areas.

George Lucas shares some advice for getting your layout right.

"A good place to start is by planning out your kitchen layout, starting with white goods and moving on to considering where you want full height cupboards or worktops," says George. "Allowing adequate space for all your kitchen equipment is key. A combination of solid walls and glazing within the design of your orangery ensures there is enough space to install a cooking station and sink area."

6. Add a central kitchen island

If your orangery kitchen extension ideas are being considered purely to extend your current cooking space and don't need to house a formal dining area or living space, be sure to add kitchen island ideas into the mix.

Offering an abundance of kitchen storage, preparation space and opportunities to add stools for seating if required, it can also be the perfect location for your kitchen sink.

Make sure you follow the advice for lighting a kitchen island and flood the area with light from above by including double roof lanterns in your design. It can be a great way of increasing natural light, especially if instead of choosing bi-fold doors you've opted for simple, smaller patio doors.

7. Install roof blinds to reduce any glare

While roof lanterns invite light in, there may be occasions when you either want to reduce the glare, or even create a cosier atmosphere come night time. If so, consider your conservatory roof blind options, but choose blinds in the same colour as your ceiling to ensure the scheme feels cohesive.

Many companies also offer orangery roofs with extra features, says Virginia Murray - some of which can be a handy addition to a kitchen where ventilation is important to help deal with moisture and cooking smells.

"Our orangery designs often incorporate advanced technology options, including integrated sound systems and intelligent roof vents," she explains. "Electric or heat-sensitive roof vents can offer intelligent ventilation, opening automatically to regulate temperature or close when rain is detected. This allows clients to create a high-tech, comfortable living space that adapts to their needs, whether they are relaxing, cooking, or entertaining."

8. Match your frame colour to your home's external finish

Although some may choose to create contrast with their new orangery kitchen extension ideas, this scheme from Mozolowski & Murray demonstrates the value in opting for a more demure approach to design.

"For period homes, matching the stone and choosing hardwood timber helps the extension blend seamlessly, " says Virginia Murray, allowing the extended space to simply fit into the environment.

It doesn't detract from the beauty of the current property or landscaped gardens, yet still has a quiet sense of added luxury and offers the inhabitants a wonderful viewpoint onto the gardens.

9. Play to your home's proportions

If you currently have a long and narrow kitchen and only have the option to extend this by adding extra length, rather than width, don't assume orangery kitchen extension ideas aren't for you. Instead, play to your proportions and enhance the feeling of length and height in order to avoid drawing attention to the fact your space is narrow.

Install floor to ceiling kitchen cupboards, colour drench the space with an off white colour palette to bounce light around and blur the boundaries, and then add a show stopping kitchen floor tile idea that runs the full length of the room.

Tricking the eye into looking towards the end of the room which is flooded with light both from the roof light and the patio doors, ensures the lack of width is immediately forgotten and an overriding sense of space ensues.

10. Opt for a modern take on a traditional design

If you like the core elements of orangeries but prefer something a little more contemporary, you can still adapt the basic principles of the design and turn them into something more modern, as this scheme from Ultraframe demonstrates well.

"Choosing an orangery style kitchen extension is a fantastic option," says Alex Hewitt, marketing director at Ultraframe, and can still be replicated with a more modern frame."

"The flat roof part of an orangery offers a feeling of solidity and permanence that is so familiar to us in a kitchen, and then the option to add lanterns or flat skylights will flood the room with huge amounts of that all-important natural light as well as adding an undeniable wow factor and a real focal point.

"Large spans of bi-folds or sliding doors add a further dimension of light," she adds, "and create a direct link to the garden for a seamless living space."

Design & planning tips

With your orangery kitchen extension ideas featuring at the very heart of your home, you'll want to make sure you get it right. So what do the experts recommend?

“For anyone who is considering putting a kitchen into an orangery extension, it’s important to involve both the extension designer and kitchen designer from the outset," says Mervyn Montgomery. "This will ensure the correct positioning of the lantern, or lanterns, relative to the island and that other utilities/services such as lighting, extraction, plumbing, electric sockets, etc. have been considered so they are positioned and installed correctly in the desired areas to maximise the functionality and aesthetics of the space.”

“Thoughtful planning and attention to detail - from ensuring compliance with regulations to integrating the right materials," says Virginia Murray, "are essential for achieving an orangery that is both timeless and functional, offering a beautifully crafted hub of the home for years to come."

Virginia highlights the following areas as ones that need to be considered early on in your project:

• Planning Permission & Building Regulations: Ensure your project meets local planning and building regulations
• Heating & Ventilation: Features like underfloor heating and automated roof vents, particularly for a kitchen space, can be useful in maintaining a comfortable environment throughout the year
• Lighting & Technology Integration: Incorporating integrated lighting and sound systems early in the design process is essential for seamless functionality
• Material Choices: Hardwood timber offers not only a timeless aesthetic but durability and thermal efficiency, making it ideal for an orangery

On a final note, Mervyn Montgomery points out one of the potential pitfalls that can be missed when it comes to designing your doors and windows.

“Bi-fold doors, a common design choice for orangery kitchen extension ideas, require proper consideration," he notes. "The split of the doors, whether they fold in or outside of the room, and the stack of the doors once open must all be thought through, otherwise, the balance and proportion of the room will be compromised and the layout of cabinetry and storage could be affected."

Keen to explore more kitchen extension ideas? Take a look at these glazed kitchen extension ideas, or some alternative kitchen extensions with skylights.

Glass kitchen extensions come with so many benefits, making it easy to see why they are such a popular way to add extra space.

If you are considering building an extension, then do take the time to consider incorporating large areas of glazing within the design — by doing so you can expect beautiful light-filled interior spaces as well as allowing both the existing buildng, as well as the newer addition to stand out in their own right.

Our collection of glass kitchen extension ideas brings together a whole range of ideas, from those that will suit period properties, to inspiration for those after something a little more contemporary. 

What are the advantages of glass kitchen extensions?

Kitchen extension ideas come in all kinds of designs, but those which are heavily glazed tend to be particularly sought after. Not only do they allow homeowners to create a cooking and dining space that is full of natural light and a pleasure to spend time in but they also suit all types of property, including period-style homes.

"Due to the inherent appearance of glass – it is clear – it allows you to see the traditional build behind and there is a clear difference between what is new and what is old," says Rebecca Clayton communications director at IQ Glass. "These types of frameless glass extensions can sometimes appease planning officers that don’t want to disrupt the integrity of the buildings original architecture."

They also offer loads of benefits internally. 

"From an internal view, a glass extension brings more of your garden into your internal space, so make sure your garden is something to look at," continues Rebecca. "Don’t overlook garden design and external lighting when you have a glass box extension to the rear."

1. Take the kitchen orangery approach

An orangery extension could be just the thing you are after when it comes to your new kitchen.

While they tend to feature less glass than a conservatory, they still commonly feature plenty of full height glazing, as well as a roof lantern. The fact that they are partially solid can be helpful when it comes to the placement of units and appliances. 

In this kitchen orangery, from Vale Garden Houses, the bank of glass patio doors and almost entirely glass roof flood the space with light while units have been fitted along the solid side wall. 

2. Use a glazed lean-to extension to pull in light

Lean to extensions featuring a glass roof and walls are a simple – and often more affordable – way to add kitchen space than many other types of glazed extension, such as glass box extensions.

This example – an extension to a basement flat – shows how, with the right design, a lean to extension can be heavily glazed while still allowing for plenty of kitchen storage.

"When we discuss the idea of any glazed extension with a client, we always talk about its purpose," says Mervyn Montgomery, founder, and joint director of Hampton Conservatories. "This is important because conservatories, orangeries and lean-tos all have their merits and it's vital to understand how a room will be used in order to specify the appropriate type. For example, lean-tos do not require much building height so they can be easily added to low single-storey properties or those where the ground floor height is in short supply."

3. Combine bifold doors with a roof lantern

If a kitchen extension with bifolds is just what you are after then do consider how the addition of a roof lantern could really enhance the whole scheme, pulling in lots of extra natural light and adding a sense of volume and space to the room. 

In this fantastic modern kitchen extension, aluminium bifold doors have been installed to open up the entire corner of the room, while a simple rooflight has been located over the living area of the space.

4. Wrap the extension in glass doors

There is no reason why you have to fit a glass roof or roof lanterns in order to enjoy the benefits of a glass kitchen extension. In some cases, simply using large swathes of glass doors can work just as well. 

"A popular modern option is to include a solid roof with glass faces on all open sides," says Rebecca Clayton. "These can be constructed from fixed structural glass or minimally framed sliding glass doors for a contemporary appearance.

"Side infill extensions normally have one solid wall along the party wall line with a glass roof and vertical opening glass element to the garden."

In this example, the kitchen diner enjoys stunning views from all angles thanks to the glass doors that have been fitted all the way around.

5. Use up-and-over glazing to pull in light

If you prefer the idea of a few solid walls and sections of roof rather than a fully-glazed extension, then do consider how you could use glass in ways other than standard rooflights and roof lanterns. 

One particular use of fixed glazing to consider is the 'up-and-over' window, whereby a narrow section of glass reaches from the floor, before continuing up the wall and then overhead as a section of glass roof, as can be seen in this kitchen extension — which further benefits from full-width sliding doors. 

6. Flood your extension with light using a glazed gable

Glass extension ideas come in all shapes and sizes, but if you want to ensure your new addition really packs a visual punch, at the same time as allowing natural light to stream into your interiors, then a fully glazed gable could well be the way to go.

This stunning extension to a Georgian farmhouse was designed to be an obviously new addition and the kitchen now enjoys a vaulted ceiling along with incredible views out to the garden beyond. 

7. Prevent overheating with a modern overhang

One issue that can become a problem with heavily glazed kitchen extensions is overheating — particularly in the case of extensions with glass roofs. All that glass can cause spaces, if not properly designed, to feel a little like a greenhouse inside.

Thankfully there are plenty of ways to avoid the problem of overheating.

"The best way to prevent overheating in highly glazed home designs is to specify the glazing with solar control glass," says Rebecca Clayton. "IQ would always recommend this for glass roofs and large south facing glazing elevations.

"Alternatively, you could shade large elevations of glazing from solar radiation using external shading solutions," continues Rebecca. "On the external face of properties, large elevations of glass can be shaded by canopies, awning roofs or a louvre roof system."

This smart box-like glass kitchen extension has been topped with a roof that overhangs the vertical glass sections by a considerable amount, meaning no overheating is experienced. 

8. Add a sympathetic conservatory to a period house 

There is absolutely no reason why owners of period properties, or those built in a traditional style, should feel they have to avoid glass kitchen extensions in favour of something more classic in appearance — glazed additions are actually often encouraged by planners. That said, if you live in a listed property you will need to apply for Listed Building Consent before adding any kind of extension, glass or otherwise.

The kitchen in this period stone farmhouse manages to enjoy lots of natural light thanks to the lean to glass extension that sits to one end.

9. Transform an ordinary house with an angular extension

Glass extensions do not have to come in the form of a minimalist box or be made up of simple glass doors and roof lanterns  — they can also take some pretty striking angular forms that will really add a great deal of character and interest to otherwise fairly bland buildings. 

This incredible kitchen extension features a triangular roof, inset with large glazed sections, along with a run of sliding patio doors.

10. Pair Belgium doors with a matching roof lantern

Belgium doors, that is panelled glazed doors with steel frames (often seen in black), continue to enjoy huge popularity, both as internal and external fittings. They are also a great feature to include in a glazed kitchen extension, particularly when used in conjunction with other fixtures and fittings with a slightly industrial look to them. 

In this kitchen extension, full-width Belgium doors lead out from the space to the patio beyond, while a coordinating roof lantern ties the whole look together. 

FAQs

Where should I place my units in a glass kitchen extension?

When designing a kitchen, one of the first things you will need to do is plan out its layout and ensure that you will have enough storage and food preparation space. In glass kitchen extensions, it is crucial to ensure that there is not so much glass that it makes fitting units difficult. 

In most cases, the best way around this potential problem is to locate the working section of your kitchen, with units, work surfaces and appliances, to the rear of your extension or within the original section of the building, and leave the glazed space as a dining area or for your kitchen island.

What is the 25% rule surrounding glass extensions?

You may have heard of the 25% rule when it comes to glass extensions and be worried about how it will affect your plans.

"Section 10 of Approved Document L Volume 1 gives a detailed list of the requirements of additions to existing dwellings. Although paragraph 10.7 states that you cannot have an extension with over 25% glazing, if you read a little further on you will see that is not the case," says Rebecca Clayton of IQ Glass. "If the total area of glazing in the new extension exceeds 25% of the floor area of the extension, then you just need to do a few calculations to show it still complies. 

"In essence, what you are trying to show is that the highly glazed extension provides the same level of performance (or better) than a ‘standard’ extension with less glazing. This needs to be calculated as a whole with all aspects of the extension envelope.

"It is typical in these instances that you will need to use glazing that has an improved U value over what is listed in Table 4.2. Other thermally insulating elements of the extension may also need to be improved to achieve the right level of efficiency."

Glass kitchen extensions can undoubtedly make wonderful additions to all kinds of homes but they are not the best option for everyone. 

Before beginning any kind of work to add space to your home you need to ask 'how much does an extension cost?' and then formulate your ideas based on your budget. Some methods of building an extension will be far cheaper than others — for example, concrete blockwork lies at the lower end of the price scale, with oak frame and glass lying at the higher end.

There's no doubt that open plan kitchen extensions remain one of the most popular types of kitchen extension. After all, who hasn't fallen in love with the stunning architectural designs that you so often see online or in print?

But, with their open layout comes some more serious considerations such as structural changes, differences in floor levels, light and glazing and questions regarding heating and energy efficiency.

Throw into the mix how you will zone the open plan kitchen extension to make sure it functions effectively for eating, living and dining and it becomes a much bigger job than simply deciding where your kitchen sink will be.

Ask yourself exactly what you want from an open plan kitchen extension

While starting an open plan kitchen extension may feel challenging, knowing where to start will always give you the best chance of success. The key to a positive end result Making sure you have a clear understanding of what you want it to add to your life and how it will impact the rest of your home.

“It might seem obvious, but one of the first things to consider when undertaking a kitchen extension is how are you going to use the space and what you hope to gain from it," says Al Bruce, founder of Olive & Barr.

"Do you need more general living space for your growing family, or perhaps you are a keen cook who requires a dedicated area to entertain, or, is gardening your passion and you would love to create more of a connection between indoors and outdoors."

"Make sure you've collated a list of the things you definitely need, and want, at the earliest stage to ensure you cover all the must-haves," agrees Nathan Kingsbury, founder and creative director of Nathan Kingsbury Design.

"This will also ensure no space in the new open plan extension is under-utilised and result in space that is not only beautiful, but functions in the way that you and those living in it, need it to.”

"By breaking down your ideas you can begin to create a non-negotiables list," continues Al, "prioritising key items that your new extension needs to include. This might be a boot room, a large kitchen island or bi-fold doors to create a light-flooded living space.

"At this stage, it’s also good to note down your favourite kitchen styles, perhaps a traditional painted shaker kitchen is your preference or maybe a Scandi minimalist wood design," he adds. "Once you have gathered your open plan kitchen ideas perhaps using a scrap or notebook (drawings or a mini mood board help here too), you can discuss your plans, both big and small, with a kitchen designer, who will help guide you in prioritising your requirements.”

Structural considerations

It can be easy to get swept away with the idea of living in a home where open plan kitchen, living and dining layouts provide a seamless backdrop to your day. The reality is, making this happen involves a serious amount of structural changes to your home, all of which can impact the final costs – and affect the way you live while the space is created.

"Extension costs often are much more expensive than you initially think," says John Place, owner of Place Design. "It's therefore a good idea to get quotes from builders very early on in the process when it comes to open plan kitchen extensions due to the amount of work involved.

"This way you will get an idea of the costs involved before you begin to budget for your furniture, appliances and everything else that creates the final end result."

You'll need to think about beams, pillars and ceiling levels

Whether creating an opening to the rear or side of your home for an addition such as a kitchen conservatory extension, removing part of an external wall involves adding new support to the roof and wall above in the form of structural beams. Removing an external wall without properly replacing the support puts the rest of your home at risk.

It's a complex area and one that's covered in more detail in our article on load bearing walls, but the type of beam that's used in your open plan kitchen extension will need to be designed by a structural engineer so that it has sufficient weight bearing capacity, and works with the existing structure of your home.

However, it can also have implications on the finished ceiling levels between your house and new extension. If you're considering types of ceiling and aiming for a seamless finish you'll be looking for the beam to be hidden – something which may not be possible and will depend on two things – the floor level of any rooms above and the current ceiling height of your house.

Lifting the floor level above to accommodate the beam will involve more work and cost, but if you have sufficient ceiling height downstairs, you may be able to create a suspended ceiling to hide the new beam.

Alternatively, some people will use the beam as a way of visually breaking up the space, myself included. When I added an extension to a listed building, it wasn't possible to increase the overall height to hide the beam above the ceiling, as this would have would have exceeded what had been granted in planning permission.

Instead the beams were plasterboarded, skimmed and decorated. They helped to subtly define the kitchen from the living area in an unobtrusive and minimal way that didn't affect the overall layout.

Vertical supports or pillars may also be requested by your structural engineer and can again form part of your overall design or be covered up depending on the final look.

In oak frame kitchen extension ideas for example, they add aesthetic value to the overall scheme and you will be happy to embrace them as part of your overall design.

Windows, doors and ventilation

While a kitchen extension with bi-folds is a great option if you're looking to create a natural transition between the outdoors and indoors, it's not the only option available to you when it comes to open plan kitchen extensions.

Instead, a kitchen extension with skylights could provide you with plenty of light and give you much needed wall space for kitchen cabinets. It's also essential you design your windows and doors to suit the existing aspect of your home, says John Place.

"Don't try to create something you have seen in a magazine in a space that is totally different to the direction of your garden," he advises. "For instance if you have a south facing garden do you really want to put that much glazing in? It can make a room very cold in winter and very hot in summer. Maybe that one you saw full of glazing is north facing, so design for the space you have, not for the one you saw somewhere else."

Consider where you will need light the most. A skylight above your kitchen prep area could provide additional natural task lighting during the day, whereas a rooflight above a sitting area may provide an opportunity to stargaze at night.

And if you only have space for a small kitchen extension, can you afford to sacrifice one wall to bi-fold or patio doors or would you be best served with more storage instead?

If you're planning a terrace house extension it's also possible you will be building up to a boundary wall or investigating how you get party wall agreements in place. In this instance, creating an opening for large patio doors won't be required. Instead, ceiling glazing and rooflights could be a better option if you still desire a light filled space.

Just remember to think about the practicalities of cleaning the glass and ensuring you don't find yourself over-looked by neighbouring properties.

Don't forget to factor in all types of ventilation

Although you may well be adding lots of architectural glazing to your open plan kitchen extension, as with any style of kitchen, however big or small, ventilation is a key requirement you need to factor into your design.

"Kitchen extension ventilation is far more critical in open plan layouts because cooking smells and steam travel easily into living areas," says Emily Newmarch, design consultant at Kitchens by Holloways. "High-quality kitchen extraction, ideally vented externally, is essential. Hob choice, hood positioning and airflow should all be considered early in the design rather than treated as an afterthought."

Energy efficiency

Choosing the right types of energy efficient windows will be essential when it comes to ensuring your open plan kitchen extension gets building regulations approval. Of equal importance will be the total amount of glazing involved and whether extending one or two existing small rooms into a larger open plan space will impact on your current, and new insulation requirements.

Approved Document Part L1B of the building regulations requirements is the section which sets out the requirements for renovations and extensions to existing homes. It states that if a wall or floor which is considered a thermal element is being renovated, it must adhere to the standards set out in part L1A which covers new homes.

While our comprehensive guide to Part L of the building regulations explains in more detail how this may impact your open plan kitchen extension, it's worth knowing that the 25% glazing rule in Part L, means highly glazed extensions will need SAP calculations in order to get final approval.

Furthermore, if you aren't looking to start your open plan kitchen extension for a few years, bear in mind that changes are being proposed to SAP calculations to ensure all buildings fall within the new Future Homes Standard.

Zoning and flow

"With open-plan spaces, zoning becomes essential," says Emily Newmarch. "You need to clearly define kitchen, dining and living areas without relying on walls, which means your kitchen layout, furniture placement, lighting and ceiling treatments all work harder.

"Sight lines are also more important, as what you see from seating areas and entrances needs careful consideration, particularly around clutter-prone zones like sinks and prep areas."

"Open plan kitchen extensions are wonderful, but so often, the space can feel cold and be limited with spaces which can hold you when you want to relax," notes Nathan Kingsbury.

"The key is to create defined zones within the space and add ‘nooks or soft spaces which allow for rest and relaxation. It’s also crucial that the space emanates these zones in a coherent way – so that it is clear which part you are in. "For instance," he adds, "you don’t want to feel like you are still in the kitchen/cooking space when you’re relaxing and chatting with friends after dinner.

"Ensuring every zone within the overall space has a specific function is also key to avoid creating areas or surfaces that serve no purpose at all," adds Nathan. "These will either not be used and become wasted space or turn into dumping grounds for clutter."

"Starting with zoning also helps you to make sense of the feel of the room in the initial stages," says Nathan. "Once you have ascertained which parts function for which purposes, you can build an intended feel or vibe around each one and then grow these with chosen colours, lighting design, and materials to create these – and to create that definition."

Think about how the space will flow when zoning your open plan kitchen extension

Whether your kitchen layout ideas comprise kitchen lounge ideas or kitchen diner ideas, a practical and aesthetic flow are integral to ensuring your space meets your need. This can be as simple as adding curves to larger items such as a kitchen island to make the space seem more fluid.

"The flow of each zone into the next, how one moves through the space as a whole and how multiple people can do this without being in each other’s way are all questions you need to consider, says Nathan Kingsbury. "It's required in order to make sure the overall space and zones within it truly function in a way that is practical and suitable to the way you intend to live and use the space,"

John Place also notes how the practical considerations of daily life need to be taken into account. "Think about how people move through the area while others are working in it," says John. "If you are going to have young children running around for example then it probably isn't a good idea to have an eye level oven that opens across a doorway."

Cabinet placement will also need careful consideration

“No matter the size of kitchen, carefully thought out cupboards is key to how the kitchen works and flows," says Al Bruce.

"Remember to consider the preparation space around the cooker and sink area, you’ll need plenty of room either side of these stations. For the cooker area, you’ll need space for baking trays that come straight out of the oven, while the sink area needs plenty of room for stackable pots and dishes ready to be washed. Another key element often overlooked is the recycling bin, this is especially important in terrace houses where additional storage is limited.

"Rather than installing lots of standard cabinets, consider larger cabinets," suggests Al. "They offer plenty of storage and work out to be much cheaper than two standard sized cupboards. Sectioning the kitchen off in designated areas will allow you to envision how you’ll use the space and in turn improve the ergonomics of the kitchen.”

You may also be weighing up the benefits of a freestanding or fitted kitchen, or perhaps you are considering a kitchen island idea to define the kitchen area from the dining space. You may even be looking to add a kitchen pantry or utility area.

"Either way, everyone has different needs and for example although many victorian terrace side return extensions follow a similar footprint," says John Place, "the people in them do not necessarily have the same requirements so do not be afraid to personalise it for your own needs."

Lighting, flooring and colour

As well as getting the overall structure and cabinet layout right, the best open plan kitchens will all incorporate some clever tricks of the trade when it comes to lighting, flooring and use of colour.

"Warmth comes from balance," says Emily Newmarch. "Layered lighting, varied materials and thoughtful proportions help soften large open spaces. Incorporating elements such as pantries or back kitchens can also keep the main space calm and uncluttered. Considering ceiling height, glazing style and how the extension transitions into the existing house is key to avoiding a space that feels stark or disconnected."

"Colour and texture are also techniques you can employ to make the space feel cohesive," says John Place, suggesting the concept of using similar styles of furniture throughout. "It doesn't have to all be the same though," he adds. "There is a difference between cohesive and uniform. Eclectic spaces often have an energy and character that over simplified spaces lose.

"If you are a fan of minimalist style that's fine, but the best spaces still recognise the need for variety of texture and colour to add interest," says John. "If everything in the room is a flat white door it can just look cold and clinical.

"If you are having a TV area maybe consider having a mid century sideboard underneath it instead of more kitchen furniture," he suggests. "This will add warmth, character, and define a different area all at once."

Use your kitchen lighting to define the different zones

Kitchen lighting ideas for any type of space will always make use of a layering technique, and it's perhaps even more important when it comes to open plan kitchen extensions.

When deciding on your zones, think of your lighting at the same time says John Place.

"You have task lighting which ensures you have enough light to see what you are chopping, and then you have ambient light for a mellow evening glow from a set of glass cupboards for example.

"A lot of the time people just put in ceiling downlights and leave it at that, but they give a horrible light in my opinion and should only be used in the task area,'" he adds. "Consider using floor standing lights or wall mounted lights to give more character to the space and obviously pendant lights work well as kitchen island lighting, or over breakfast bars and dining tables."

Accent lighting in kitchens is also something we often fail to take into account. but in a large open plan kitchen extension is essential for adding character and style.

Shop for open plan kitchen extension lighting

Make sure your kitchen flooring works for every different zone

When it comes to choosing your kitchen flooring ideas, while you may be tempted to chose one floor finish believing it will enhance the overall sense of space, it's important to weigh up whether your aesthetic preference matches the practical use of each zone.

"In big spaces, a different type of flooring can actually help to denote different zones," says John Place. "The one point to ensure is that your kitchen flooring is practical and easy to clean. Small tiles with lots of grout lines for example get dirty very quickly in a kitchen, but not as much in a living space."

If you're trying to find the best flooring for kitchens but you're also keen for one overall colour or finish, try using different sized tiles in a similar finish. Or, if you are using engineered wood flooring or a luxury vinyl flooring with a wood effect finish, lay the planks in different directions to denote the fact you are walking into a new zone.

“As a natural material, wood flooring is the perfect pairing for all manner of kitchen styles. It can be the perfect finishing touch for classic shaker-style kitchens, but can also add warmth and longevity to more modern, streamlined designs," says Natalie Mudd, co-founder of Knot & Grain.

"Parquet engineered wood flooring designs including herringbone and chevron are hugely popular in kitchens since they add contrast and interest to otherwise straight sight lines. Parquet flooring looks particularly stunning in larger kitchens with a central island which breaks up the floor space.

If you prefer to keep your flooring more streamlined, straight planks work equally as well and can have the effect of making a space seem larger than it actually is. Smaller open plan kitchens work particularly well with straight wooden planks which will add a sense of space and a smart finish to the room.”

If your open plan kitchen extension is located at the rear of your house and opens onto your patio area, you may also want to choose a floor tile that comes in an external version. This will enhance the seamless finish if you've specified a rebated threshold which means floor levels are the same, removing the need for a step up or down. It can also help when figuring out how to make your extension work with your garden.

Choose your kitchen colours the same as you would in any other room

Although paint trends will come and go, getting the colours right in an open plan kitchen extension can make all the difference to your enjoyment of the space. And although having to choose a colour scheme that works in a kitchen, dining and potentially living room layout can seem daunting, the same basic principles apply as any other room.

There are a few questions I personally ask myself before reaching for a colour chart:

• What is the overall feel I'm aiming for – colourful, minimal, calm or cosy?
• How much natural light enters the room?
• Is there a high risk of walls being marked frequently?
• How will the colour scheme work with the rest of my home?
• If I'm following a trend, am I likely to get bored of it quickly?

Given walls can also be decorated at less expense than replacing kitchen cabinets or worktops, it would make sense to choose the colour and finish of your units and worktop first when it comes to your open plan kitchen extension.

From this, it becomes easier to choose your flooring, wall colour, furniture finishes and even finer kitchen decor ideas that truly identify the space as yours.

Although by definition an open plan space is one where the boundaries between rooms no longer exist, this doesn't mean you have to adhere to this as strictly as you think.

Broken plan design doesn't mean having to suddenly start adding walls to your design. Instead, in a similar way to using a kitchen island or bank of units to divide a space, you can also use other types of furniture to define your open plan kitchen extension. It's also something you can do once you've lived in the space for a while.

For more kitchen inspiration, take a look at kitchen wall tile ideas or find out the rules for using wallpaper in a kitchen to see if you can use it to create a feature wall in your new space as well.

Becky and Dan Trueman found their house by accident when they discovered a tucked-away, quiet square on an afternoon stroll. “I’d lived in the area for five years but had never been in this square,” says Becky. “It’s so pretty, I hadn’t known that such a place like this would exist here.”

At the time, in September 2019, the couple had been contemplating upsizing from their two-bedroom maisonette nearby. They dreamed of finding a property that their young family could grow in and wanted to design a kitchen that would accommodate their active social lives. 

“We weren’t seriously thinking about moving at that stage because we were planning to get married and with the cost of that, we didn’t think we could afford both,” says Becky. However, there were two properties up for sale in the square so the couple decided to view them just to get an idea of the interiors. 

Terrace house was in need of modernisation 

One of the houses, a four-bedroom Victorian terrace, was owned by a church and was empty. “It was dated, the bathroom designs included blue sanitaryware, and there was a U-shaped wooden kitchen, but we both immediately loved it,” says Becky. “The rooms were all evenly sized with four really good-sized bedrooms.” 

Having renovated her maisonette, Becky saw immediately that the house was a perfect blank canvas and most importantly, could be extended to the rear. “Dan and I wanted a big, social space as entertaining is very important to us and we’d rather have a bigger living space and a smaller garden.”

Finding their architect in a magazine

The couple completed their purchase on Valentine’s Day in 2020. A month later, the country went into Lockdown. Luckily, Becky had already seen a likely architect, the East End-based Pencil and Brick, after spotting the practice’s work in a magazine. As the house is in a conservation area, the couple wanted a local architect who would know what the council would allow. 

“We had a meeting with the practice’s director Seán McAlister and liked that he asked us lots of questions and he was very thoughtful about what we wanted to achieve. He really listened to us,” says Becky. 

The couple explained that they wanted a single-storey rear extension to create a big kitchen-diner. The project was to include other work including redesigning the upstairs family bathroom. Seán sent them three sets of plans to consider.

“The third set contained an internal courtyard, which Dan and I thought was lovely as it was so different,” says Becky. “We thought it was a genius idea to have that bit of outside space inside the house and as a result, we chose that design.”

Facing obstacles during the build

Planning permission took 12 weeks after some of the neighbours complained about the rear extension. The objections were overruled and with Seán’s experience at meeting conservation area criteria, the plans were passed in August 2020. Becky and Dan appointed Pencil and Brick’s in-house contractor to do the work, with Seán as project manager. 

When work started, in January 2021, Becky and Dan, together with their baby son Freddie, who was born just a month earlier, remained in their nearby maisonette, attending the site for weekly meetings. A major problem quickly arose when a downstairs party wall was discovered to be crumbling in several places and needed to be rebuilt. “It was a significant extra cost to our budget and I remember Dan saying to me, ‘This isn’t a good start, we’re only in week two!’” recalls Becky.

However, permission was quickly gained and the wall was rebuilt. Unfortunately, problems arose in other parts of the house, including delamination of the brickwork, which required steel and concrete brackets to bind the façade and party walls together. The ceiling in the master bedroom upstairs was bowed, and other discoveries meant that most of the internal walls and the ceilings had to be replaced. Lead water pipes also needed replacing. Luckily, the construction of the extension itself ran smoothly.

The house boasts a unique interior courtyard 

One of the couple's favourite aspects of their new home is the unique interior courtyard. Interior courtyards differ from atriums in that they are open to the sky. Becky and Dan’s courtyard is situated between the original house and the extension, providing an interesting link between the interior and the garden. 

"At Christmas time, it provides a perfect space for a Christmas tree that can be seen from the kitchen, dining space and living room," says Becky. "In the summer, it's a cosy, private space to relax."

“The courtyard space within the heart of the building allows natural light deep into the plan of the house," explains Pencil & Brick’s director, architect Seán McAlister. "It allows a lighter touch and keeps the extension subservient and complementary to the host building. The courtyard and ceiling glazing allow light to filter through into various parts of the house.”

They overcame plenty of unforeseen expenses

“We were spending lots of small amounts that added up and it got very expensive very quickly. It went over budget by 50%,” says Becky. The cost overrun meant that the couple had to postpone installing some final pieces of furniture, including the units in the dining area. 

“The upside of the extra spend is that we’ve ended up with everything in proper, working order, which is reassuring,” says Becky. With the project finally completed, the family moved into their new home that October, nine months after work began.

They are proud owners of their dream kitchen

“I felt so relieved when it was done — we moved in on a Wednesday and held a dinner party for friends that night to celebrate,” recalls Becky. “We hadn’t had time to unpack so we ate very late because we couldn’t find anything!"

That weekend they held a family party to celebrate Dan’s daughter Matilda’s 13th birthday, and since then, the kitchen-diner has played host to many gatherings — exactly as Becky and Dan had always intended. 

“It fits our brief perfectly and is a homely social space — we love it,” concludes Becky.

A couple spent £250,000 renovating their five-bedroom, Edwardian home on George Clarke's Old House, New Home.

Liam and Jasmin, who work as a sales director and a PR executive, bought the Edwardian house for £850,000 in Hove, Sussex, but needed to alter the home to make it more suitable for them and their daughter and second child which is one the way.

The renovation included rebuilding their kitchen-diner, creating more, larger bedrooms on the first floor, and even removing their roof for their loft conversion.

The couple initially had a £190,000 budget, but overspent not realising the extent of the work showing why cost planning is crucial when renovating a house.

Kitchen-diner extended into new conservatory

The couple completely renovated the kitchen-dining room by extending it into the old, boxy conservatory.

George Clarke was shown round the home and he identified many problems, such as the conservatory which was small, poorly insulated, and noisy when it rained. Liam said: "It's like being in a biscuit tin."

The couple decided to remodel the kitchen diner by removing the conservatory and extending the kitchen, installing a kitchen island with induction hub and white marble top, and including a bookcase to divide the kitchen from the seating area.

Bedrooms extended to fit double beds

The renovation also extended to the five bedrooms, which were too small to fit double beds.

The couple spent a large part of their budget extending the existing bedrooms to reduce the number of bedrooms, but increase the size and include en suites.

Roof needed taking off for loft conversion

The house of the Edwardian home was actually removed to facilitate the loft conversion.

The new loft included wooden floors being installed, dormer windows and a seating area with hallway to a bathroom.

The house previously had a shallow attic, but the new loft gave extra space to the house with the project taking almost an entire year to complete, which Jasmin described as being an "emotional rollercoaster".

This property offers some brilliant home renovation ideas for your project, as long as you keep an eye on the costs.

For most people, the kitchen really is the most important room in the house. The way in which we use our kitchens these days means that this is now far from being a purely functional space. Not only does food get prepared and cooked in the kitchen but guests tend to congregate in this spot and relaxed family meals get eaten here. 

However, whatever your kitchen extension ideas, they won't come for free and if you are not planning on staying in your home indefinitely you will no doubt be keen to know how much value a kitchen extension adds to a house before you decide whether it will be worth it.

"It has long been a popular and relatively simple idea to extend your kitchen," says Chris Husson-Martin, Head of Sales at Hamptons in Salisbury. "However, the trend has been ‘super-charged’ in recent years. The kitchen is now the heart of the home — we live, work, eat, play and relax in our kitchens."

The popularity of kitchen extensions seems to be ever on the rise, with homeowners keen to create a space capable of handling everything we expect from this room and more. We have asked the exerts for their opinions on how much a kitchen extension could add to a house, as well as for tips on the best ways to get maximum return on your investment.

How much value could a kitchen extension add?

If you are considering the idea of a kitchen extension, it is really important to be aware of how much value it will potentially add to your home. Not only is this important if you are planning on selling your home in the future, but it is also useful to know the expected uplift in value when it comes to setting out your budget — you don't want to spend more on your extension than it will ever be worth.

“The kitchen is the hub of the home and as the most multifunctional room, renovating or extending it the right way can increase the value of a property by as much as 20% — not to mention increasing its saleability," says James Bernard, Director of Plus Rooms. 

That kind of added value is most certainly not to be sniffed at, but not all kitchen extensions are created equal. For your extension to add value, it needs to be a well-designed, useful space that complements the rest of the layout of your house.

"A kitchen extension done right comes with a wealth of benefits and will undoubtedly enhance your home immeasurably and offer a handsome return on your investment,” says James Bernard. 

How much does a kitchen extension cost?

While a potential 20% uplift in value is obviously hugely appealing to most homeowners, you will no doubt be asking 'how much does a kitchen extension cost?'. It is really important that you have a clear idea of what your designs and plans are going to set you back in order to decide whether this is a viable project.

While the cost of your extension will very much depend on the area you live in, the size of your extension and the kind of specification you are aiming for, you can expect costs of around £1,500-£2,250/m² of new internal space — meaning a 30m² kitchen extension could be estimated at somewhere between £45,500-£67,500, plus, VAT at 20%. 

On top of that, of course, will be the costs for the kitchen itself. Average figures for new kitchens tend to sit around the £8,000 - £10,000 mark, easily rising to more than £20,000. 

What type of kitchen extensions add the most value?

To add value to your home, your kitchen extension needs to be appealing to a wide range of potential buyers and to really enhance the rest of the house and the way in which it can be used. If you plan to sell in the not-too-distant future, it makes sense to create a space which will suit the kind of people you expect to be interested in your house, rather than thinking only of your own needs.

"Kitchen extensions that can particularly add value to your home are those that create a relationship between the living space and the garden, a seamless connection from the kitchen leading to a terrace," says Chris Husson-Martin. "This means that during better weather you can create a bigger better living space utilising both kitchen and garden. This is the perfect space and will add a considerable amount of money and saleability to your home."

In addition to more natural light and a better connection with the garden, other features that can really add to the value of your home are the addition of a utility room so if you can find space for one in your kitchen extension then it will be well worth it. 

According to a survey, commissioned by UK Radiators, which questioned 1,000 British people to find out what features their dream home would include, a utility/laundry room featured in the top three (along with a walk-in wardrobe and kitchen island.) Experts tend to advise that you could expect a 5% uplift in value through the addition of a new utility room. 

Is a small kitchen extension worth it?

If you are worried about the cost of a kitchen extension but are keen to expand your home, it is worth bearing in mind that adding even small house extension ideas can have a huge effect on how you can use the space and the value of your home.

"Remember that bigger isn’t always better, sometimes even a foot of extra space can do wonders," says James Bernard. "There's a myriad of factors that need to be considered before embarking on a kitchen extension, including how often one cooks, the orientation of your home, storage needs, planning permission from your local council and so on. 

"Planning ahead of time is key as you want to be realistic with your budget and focus your finances on the things that matter the most. There’s nothing worse than embarking on a major project you fail to finish off, which ultimately disrupts your living conditions."

Are there any kitchen extension mistakes to avoid?

While an extension, done well, can boost the value of your property, there are a few extension mistakes commonly made to bear in mind in order that your new addition doesn't actually decrease its saleability. 

“When getting your property ready to put on the market, it’s a good idea to listen to advice from an agent as to how to present it in the best light and achieve the maximum price," says Nathaniel Wilde, Senior Head of Sales at Hamptons in Sloane Square. "I’m a big believer in advising sellers to not spend too much money before selling. It’s really important not to go overboard. I have had a few instances where sellers have ignored the advice given and put in a new kitchen purely to sell just to see a buyer rip them out unused. This is obviously a huge waste; a waste of time and of money not to mention the obvious waste in materials and labour.

"As a rule of thumb it’s always a good idea to declutter, and in some instances properties can benefit from re-painting, possibly in a neutral colour, but a complete renovation isn’t necessary."

Hampton's Chris Husson-Martin advises against adding an extension just for the sake of it. "Just strapping a box onto your existing kitchen may not be the best solution," he says. "It may not have the desired effect and may be an expensive folly when you may have been better off finding a new home rather than investing a considerable amount of capital. The advice would be to look carefully at your plans to see what it is that you want, and how best to create your new ‘heart of the home’ as it will be a special place for you to enjoy for years to come.”

"Undertaking a house extension comes with an array of benefits in regards of raising your property value and maximising your living space. However, it’s crucial that homeowners do proper research and make plans ahead before embarking on a home improvement, especially amid trying times where money pressure becomes an increasing reality," says James Bernard. "You don’t want to rush into an extension project that you regret doing later, which would cost substantially due to last-minute changes of plan."

Dark and disconnected from the rest of the house, David and Lisa Mason's basement kitchen was in need of intervention. They contacted Sheldon Peever Studio to analyse the space and to take steps to improve access to the garden and natural light.

As the rear garden was limited in size, Christine Peever of the practice took strategic steps designing and building an extension that was small, yet impactful in order to create a social, open-plan space the Masons desired. 

1. Identifying issues with the existing house

Previously sporting a dated conservatory, the basement level of Lisa and David's three storey end of terrace house was awkward and disjointed. 

"The kitchen was small and cut off from the rest of the house and the homeowners had to constantly have lights on during the day," explains Christine Peever of Sheldon Peever Studio, the project architect and project manager. "There was no relationship with the garden and it just wasn't working for them at all." 

"The key issues to solve were to bring in more natural light and make it feel less like a basement. Lisa and David's children are mostly grown now, but they wanted a more sociable space as they like to entertain a lot. The rest of the house is a lot of sectioned off rooms so they wanted to have one big space to have their friends and family visit." 

Christine's solution to these issues was to create a small strip extension to the road-facing side of the house and a compact square addition in place of the conservatory. 

(Feeling inspired? Take a look at our favourite basement conversions for more inspiration and advice.)

2. Navigating the planning permission process

With the house being in a conservation area and locally listed – thanks to the ornate Gothic windows to the front elevation – Christine, Lisa and David had to ensure the new design would be approved by the local planning department. 

Unfortunately, even their proposal for two small extensions took eight months to gain approval. "The front of the house is higher on the street so we wanted to maintain privacy by using a flat roof on the side extension, but planning permission dictated it had to be a pitched roof," says Christine. "So, we compromised to make it taller so people couldn't see down when walking past on the street." 

3. Rethinking the layout

The walls in the basement were mostly removed to create a large, open plan kitchen diner space for the Masons. 

The previous downstairs loo was converted into a handy utility off the kitchen and a pantry cupboard was built in. 

"The kitchen layout was mostly planned around the island with a sink and worktop area behind and full height units along the back," says Christine. "Lisa and David worked with deVOL Kitchens to work out the finer details to create a balance for the worktops, plinths and knobs." 

Tactile materials such as the marble and timber worktops and limestone flooring bring a contemporary feel to the classic shaker-style units. 

4. Introducing light with clever glazing solutions

"We've been quite clever in the way we've positioned the rooflights. The long rooflight [by the dining area] is south facing and brings light to the previous dark space. We got quotes for different configuration of panes for this rooflight to weigh up costs. The clients ultimately chose to splash out of the single pane and I think it makes a big difference to the style." 

The large rooflight above the sink was planned so that, using the direction of the sun's path above the house, the kitchen area is never at risk of overheating as it faced north-east. The result means that while the kitchen benefits from the natural light, it won't feel too hot in the summertime. 

5. Opening out to the garden

The basement was previously very closed off to the garden so the Masons and Christine worked hard to establish a connection between the two spaces. 

Large sliding patio doors in a heritage steel-frame style offer slimmer sightlines than the bifolding doors that was initially conceived, while the limestone flooring inside has been sealed and continues outside for a seamless flow. 

To ensure the new extension also fit with the existing house, the traditional brick and block construction has been rendered in the same palette as the rest of the house. "We purposefully used materials at the back which relate to the historic gothic front, like the render, capping stones and sliding doors to have slimmer sightlines," concludes Christine. 

Glazed kitchen extension ideas are essential to creating a welcoming and bright addition to act as the new hub of the home. Glazing can also provide a much connection between your new kitchen extension and your garden.

With so many beautiful images out there online or in magazines it can be hard to decide which kitchen extension ideas to include in your own project. Not only does budget come into play, but also the overall style of the project. Windows, doors and other forms of glazing massively impact the aesthetics of any home and the budget, so should be given some serious thought from the start. 

Take a look below as we delve into the different types of glazing for kitchen extensions and where each one is best placed. 

1. Introduce light from above 

Rooflights are an adaptable and elegant way of glazing a kitchen extension. What's more, this feature can be included alongside pretty much any big or small kitchen extension ideas. 

Bespoke sizes and unusual configurations or forms are popular (including circles and oversized, walk-on rooflights), but come with added cost. So too do additions like automatic openings and self-cleaning glass.

Off-the-shelf size choices are also widely available and interesting designs can be created around them. For instance, if your rooflight will be unopenable, continue the wall finish around the frame to encourage the illusion of thinner sightlines. Or, look at orangery kitchen extension ideas if you are keen to add glass windows, doors and roof lanterns.

Other ideas for a kitchen extension with skylights to consider, include: 

• Installing them deeper in the floorplan where the extension joins the existing house, to introduce natural light where it's needed most
• Positioning above preparation areas for additional diffused light
• Including LED light strips to provide night-time illumination
• Designing a bank of rooflights along an elevation with doesn't naturally receive much natural light.

2. Use patio doors to connect a glazed kitchen extension to the garden

Building a kitchen extension can often provide an opportunity to connect with outdoor spaces. Capitalise on this by using glazing where you can with patio door ideas. 

The type of patio door you choose will depend on how you want to transition from inside to out, the style of your extension (as well as the original house), and your budget.

Kitchen extensions with bifolds benefit from being able to stack the panels of glazing back against a wall, opening up the interior to the garden. However, when closed, some models feature thick bars where the panels join together. 

Sliding doors eradicate this if you want constant good views to the outside while closed, but they can only open half way, unless you create a pocket cassette in the wall for them to slide into, which can be costly. 

Finally, French, Belgian and Steel-framed doors tend to suit a traditional/heritage style that works with both contemporary and period-inspired designs. However, they don't offer the uninterrupted views that the other aforementioned options do.

3. Add an extra aspect with a side window

While it might be tempting to focus on glazing which faces the rear garden, a side aspect can bring an unexpected view into the space. 

For instance, a long narrow window style adjacent to a sink will provide a welcome view during cleaning and washing up time. 

Similarly a picture window near a dining area can add an informal extra seat, as this stunning extension demonstrates. 

This will reduce your reliance on artificial lighting around the room, making the kitchen extension more efficient overall. Just ensure the view you're framing is a good one — green walls and planting along side alleys or so on will provide a greener view, for instance.

4. Look up high with clerestory windows

Clerestory windows – typically consisting of a row of windows or glazing above eye level – can be are ideal for bringing a wash of natural light over the room as a whole. 

This glazed kitchen extension idea can not only help bring natural light deeper into the floorplan, but can also be utilised to introduce natural light down the side of buildings, where overlooking might otherwise be an issue. 

5. Mix and match kitchen extension glazing styles

To achieve a kitchen extension which truly utilises glazing to its maximum potential, you will need to mix and match your favourite styles. 

You don't necessarily need to buy all your glazing from the same supplier or even use the same materials to create a unified look. In fact contrasting warm timber with a contemporary aluminium can work quite well. 

Track the path the sun makes before you commit to an extension design using a lot of glazing. Although it might sound great for a south facing kitchen conservatory extension to be full of windows, this can end in a greenhouse-like effect where a solar coating needs to be applied or overheating measures enacted.

Considering a new glass extension that may provide you with extra space for more than just a kitchen? Find out what you can expect to pay in our guide to glass extension costs.

A kitchen extension with bifold doors can provide an opportunity to open up your home to the garden and fill the new space with natural light. 

But there's more to adding this glazed feature to a kitchen extension than meets the eye and you'll need to make sure you design the doors to suit your lifestyle, your budget and the overall style of the extension.

Take a look at some great ideas below for kitchens with these beautiful door styles effortlessly integrated into the extension design.

How to add a kitchen extension with bifolds

You will need the advice of a structural engineer before adding bifold doors to a kitchen extension. They will specify the size of the steel to support the structural opening and structure above, even if this is a single storey extension. 

And what about size? "Bifold doors need to have at least two panels to function. So, they need to be at least the size of a double door (just over a metre)," says Victoria Bricklesby, COO at Origin. "There is no ‘right’ size for a bifold, it all comes down to how much space is available and the overall look you are trying to achieve. 

"Large expanses of glazing look fantastic and let in lots of natural light, but this approach may not be the most practical if it takes away wall space which is needed for shelving or kitchen cupboards. Equally, a two-panel bifold door can look out of place if installed on a long wall."

1. Create an indoor outdoor kitchen space

A key motivator behind installing bifold doors in a kitchen extension is to connect the inside and outside spaces. Bifolds alongside even small kitchen extension ideas will make the space feel bigger by visually giving the illusion that the indoor space extends out into the garden.

"The kitchen is often the hub of the home and is a central place for entertaining," advises Victoria Brocklesby. "Bifolds can create a seamless transition between the inside and outside, and they really open up the space for entertaining during the warmer months.

"Alongside their functionality, bifold doors allow lots of natural light to enter a room and offer widescreen views of the outside, which allows homeowners to admire their surroundings all year round. However, bifold doors are incredibly versatile, so are a great option for homes with more unusual configurations, such as a corner."

2. Combine bifolds with other glazing

Bifold doors are great at introducing natural light and views horizontally, but don't forget about other places in the kitchen extension to create new pathways for light. Ceiling glazing and rooflights are fantastic places to start.

Many off-the-shelf standard sizes won't break the budget and a kitchen extension with skylights as well as bifolding doors creates a welcoming and enticing space.

This kitchen extension took ideas from conservatory kitchen extensions. The different angles of the light bounce around the room and infiltrate deeper into the floorplan.

3. Know your material and colour options

Choosing the size of your bifolds in one thing, but also consider how the material and colour choices will affect the overall aesthetic of your extension. 

Timber can be painted pretty much any colour and offers a more classical charm while uPVC is a cheaper option and can these days be specified in a range of hues, not just white and anthracite. 

"Aluminium bifold doors are inherently stronger and requires less maintenance than uPVC or timber, so can be a more practical option," adds Victoria Brocklesby. 

4. Treat bifolds as more than just a feature when researching

Really research every element of your chosen patio doors as this is not just a style addition, but will provide an entry point to your home or garden.

"A bifold door should be just as secure as a front door. Homeowners should look for doors that feature multi-point locking systems and security accreditations, such as Secured by Design, to ensure their property remains safe," warns Victoria Brocklesby.

"Bifold doors are an investment, so it’s important to choose a system which will last. While guarantees won’t tell you the entire picture, they are a good indicator of the quality of a product. For example, a manufacturer offering a 20-year guarantee is going to be more confident that its product will stand the test of time than a company offering a 5-year guarantee. Material is also an important factor."

5. Embrace the benefits of bifolds

As bifolds capture a view of the garden, it's important to ensure that that view is also given some consideration. "Alongside their functionality, bifold doors allow lots of natural light to enter a room and offer widescreen views of the outside, which allows homeowners to admire their surroundings all year round," explains Victoria Brocklesby. 

Use smart garden design and patio ideas to create an enticing space to view. Tricks like continuing the flooring type out into the garden (think timber for a decked areas, or porcelain tiles/flagstones for a patio) or creating clean eyelines to colourful raised beds work wonders alongside glazed doors. 

6. Go for a double bank of bifolds

Why have just one bank of bifold doors when you can have two? This style works particularly well for large, open-plan spaces where the kitchen extension needs to have access and views just as much as a dining or seating area. 

This light and bright kitchen diner extension also takes advantage of the sun's orientation around the house as corner bifolds (centre of image) will eke out every last ray of sunlight. 

Adding a kitchen extension with skylights will help you create a sun-filled social space to enjoy whatever the weather. 

Skylights and roof windows offer many benefits that go beyond being an architectural feature in your new space. Increasing natural light in kitchen extensions reduces our dependence on artificial lighting during the day and can help improve our wellbeing. 

Rooflights can also be used to bring natural light deeper into your home, which can be important when adding a new extension.

Take a look at different ways glazing in the roof can be installed into a new kitchen extension with inspiration from real-life projects. 

Can I put skylights in my kitchen extension? 

You can only put skylights in a kitchen extension if it is single storey, or you intend to add a two-storey extension with a double-height void above the kitchen or living space. Skylights can be added to pitched, lean-to and flat roof extensions, but try to ensure you won't be overlooked by neighbours. 

The terms skylight and rooflight or roof windows can be used interchangeably, which can be confusing when searching online for products and advice.  

1. Bring in extra light to a dark kitchen extension

Incorporating a roof window into a kitchen extension design will immediately add architectural depth to even the simplest form. 

Bringing in light from above is a beautiful way to create new passages of light throughout a kitchen and illuminate workspaces with natural light. The illusion of a rooflight also helps to make small kitchen extension ideas feel taller and wider. 

In this side return extension, a wide skylight was added above the cooking zone for this exact reason, while the old exterior window has also been retained for the darker internal spaces to benefit from this feature, also. 

2. Combine skylights with other types of glazing in a rear extension

Bringing in light from multiple different angles using ceiling glazing or rooflights is a great idea if your extension doesn't benefit from lots of direct sunlight. 

Taking its cue from kitchen conservatory extensions, this modern rear extension uses multiple glazing designs to let light infiltrate the space. First, the long rooflight brightens the cooking and island area, while the picture window and sliding doors provide a view of the garden. 

3. Embrace different kinds of light

To design a kitchen extension that suits your individual lifestyle, one factor to consider is when you will use the room most. 

Early risers and those that have breakfast together will benefit from an easterly-facing extension, while if your space will double as a kitchen diner extension in the evening, west-facing light might suit better. 

Thanks to their overhead nature, skylights benefit from multiple types of light throughout the day. While the position of the extension will dictate which will infiltrate your kitchen space, the illumination should last for a longer amount of time.

Not only will this increase your sense of wellbeing in the kitchen space, but also will reduce reliance during the day on artificial lighting, saving on energy bills. 

Plus, if your kitchen moonlights as a home office for some of the week, this ambient lighting throughout the day will help increase productivity.

4. Include standard-sized skylights to keep to a kitchen extension to a budget

For smaller spaces or those being built to a tight budget, there is lots of potential in standard-sized or off-the-shelf skylights. 

Bespoke sizes increase kitchen extension costs, as do slimmer sightlines and electric or solar powered openings, so if you're keeping an eye on finances these are good elements to really examine if you need them. 

Plus, cheaper or smaller skylights might mean you can install more of them around the kitchen to illuminate different areas. 

5. Look at breaking up rooflights in a kitchen extension

One downside of a kitchen extension that includes skylights is overheating in summer. Copious amounts of overhead glazing can create a space so warm the thought of cooking feels out of the question. 

One way to circumvent this is to install opening rooflights – which may be electric roof windows – as opposed to fixed, which will encourage ventilation throughout the kitchen. Another alternative is to shield the space from direct light when the sun is directly overhead. 

Working in a similar way to a brise soleil, this rustic kitchen's roof trusses have been extended below the recessed skylight. 

6. Install a large roof lantern

For maximum impact and to create extra height in your kitchen extension, think about installing a roof lantern rather than a skylight. 

This design will only work if your extension will have a flat roof, but their elegance and architectural impact should put them in consideration alongside skylights.

In the example above, the large lantern rains light down onto not just the kitchen but the dining and sitting areas as well. 

Do skylights require planning permission?

If you're applying for planning permission to build your kitchen extension, the design of the skylights will be considered and approved within this application, so you don't need to apply for permission separately.

For those building an extension under permitted development rights, this is also acceptable but be wary of adding too much glazing to the design overall. The new extension must be in keeping with the original house and anything too different from this style might fail to qualify under permitted development. (Bear in mind too that permitted development rights do not apply to all homes.)

However, if your kitchen extension has already been built and you're introducing new skylights, note that skylights must not protrude no more than 150mm than the existing roof line to fall within PD rights.

Adding a kitchen diner extension to an existing home will add space, value and, if planned and designed correctly, a functional yet versatile room for the whole family to interact in.

Before you begin your adventure building an extension, carefully explore the different styles and designs that are available out there, and consider how they will suit the property.

Lavish open-plan kitchen diners might be the envy of all, but a small, well-thought out extension can be just as effective and deliver the same amount of impact.

Take a look below to find ideas to inspire you, expert advice to follow and find out what the first steps are in planning a kitchen diner extension.

Kitchen diner extensions: Before you begin

Creating an open-plan kitchen diner can completely change the way in which you interact in the home but the process will be challenging and often stressful (especially where savings are involved) — put your best foot forward with some simple steps to planning your new extension and kitchen design. 

"A brief discussion with your planning department won’t harm as a first step, but in most cases, you will need to consult with an architect to produce initial drawings for planning (planning takes around 8 weeks — if you have cooperative neighbours)," explains William Durrant, owner of Herringbone Kitchens. "Getting a recommendation for an architect is crucial. In some cases, you won’t need an architect and you can work with an architect technician or a surveyor.   

"The kitchen is normally the reason for the extension, so you want to make sure it can accommodate everything you are dreaming of. It is a good idea to get an initial design and quote from your kitchen company early in the planning process, after you have planning permission ideally. This ensures you won’t run into design limitations further down the line."

"The kitchen really is the heart of the home. If you can scale up and add versatility to the space, incorporating dining, entertaining and home working, that can only be a good thing," adds Adrian Bergman, design manager at Plain English Design. "When designing a kitchen extension there are quite a few elements that need to come together in order to make it a successful project. The design brief and involving your kitchen designer at the early stages are incredibly important."

1. Collect inspiration to create a great brief

“It’s important to gather inspiration prior, so you have a clear idea on the non-negotiables," explains Al Bruce, founder of Olive & Barr. "While aesthetics are important, ask yourself what you’ll be using the space for, how many people are in the household and what proportion of your everyday you’ll be spending there. 

"Those answers will help you determine the flow of the room as well as the materials. For example, materials that are hardwearing are better in areas of high traffic like the kitchen.

"Next, gather a list of suppliers that offer a similar design to the style you’re trying to achieve," Al adds. "The benefit of speaking with a designer is they’ll be able to make your dreams a reality, with extra details you possibly wouldn’t have thought of. They should take into consideration both form and function, making sure your kitchen works for the whole household."

2. Determine the right layout for your lifestyle

Look into house extension ideas to create a layout shape in your head of how the new extension will flow from the existing house and if any walls will need knocking through (or building from scratch). 

"Broken plan kitchen layout ideas have remained a popular choice, they are still as aesthetically pleasing as an open plan kitchen but with added functionality," Al Bruce comments. "Better yet, it suits to both small and awkwardly proportioned rooms. This versatile layout is ideal for zoning areas of the kitchen, achieved by creating partitions, for example, a freestanding breakfast bar, open shelving, and panelled glass doors. With multifunctional living being a priority for many, a broken plan allows for both work and play, with the option of a little privacy when needed."

This will also inform the shape of the open plan kitchen itself, be it with a practical island, a L-shaped design or traditional farmhouse style with a practical preparation/dining table.

"A well-placed island or peninsular can define the separate spaces," adds Herringbone Kitchens' William Durrant. 

3. Get your design and trades lined up in advance

"You can never be too early to start discussions and we are often speaking with our clients a year ahead of project completion," Al Bruce. "Remember, plumbing and electrics can be positioned to compliment appliance placement, by planning ahead you won’t have to sacrifice the layout of your new kitchen."

Don't forget plugs for floor lamps, chargers, music players that are commonly in a dining room that can often be sidelined and forgotten beside a new kitchen.  

"Try to not change your mind too much. Changing your mind will delay things, for example, adding or changing plug sockets are not always quick jobs. However, it is also the right time to do it if you don’t like something," says William Durrant. "Speak your mind and have a close relationship with your builders, pop in often and try to enjoy the process together."

4. Bring in natural light from above or the side

Take inspiration from dining room and kitchen conservatory extensions and bring natural light in from wherever you can. 

Giant roof lanterns on flat roof extensions, stylish corner windows and, of course sliding patio doors are all firm favourite for new additions. 

"Although harnessing natural light has always been a key consideration within interior and kitchen design, we are noticing that our customers are now making it a priority, especially when extending the footprint of their kitchen," says Olive & Barr's Al Bruce. 

"Large atrium-style roof windows are a popular choice and allow light to flood into the room, positioning the island or dining table below anchors the design and creates a show-stopping look."

5. Spend on things you can't change, and mix in budget items

At the beginning of your project, its a good idea to find out how much does an extension cost in your area and for the quality you want. From there, you can budget for essentials like the kitchen, flooring, and lighting, before considering finishing touches. 

"It is normal for builders’ quotes to vary massively, so don't go with the first quote you get. It will depend on how busy they are, what else they have in your area, how much they want the job and how well they think you’ll work together. Remember - cheap is not always best!" says Herringbone Kitchens' William Durrant. "It is important to have a good relationship with your builders and strong communication, this will help during the issues that will inevitably arise."

Don't forget that this style of extension is a flexible and social space — don't only spend on your kitchen and forgo the dining element. 

6. Use banquette seating for an integrated diner

"Often the ideal when undertaking this kind of extension is to include an island and some form of dining area," explains Adrian Bergman from Plain English. "In many cases, this is achievable with clever design but if it is feeling tight don’t be tempted to cram everything in. If you are tight for space a good way to keep the dining area compact is to incorporate a built-in bench seat."

Banquette seating can also be used for a flexible work space for adults or children doing their homework. 

7. Make the dining table the place to be

While the kitchen is usually celebrated in modern house extension ideas, the dining table needs to be kept centre-stage and focused during the design of the layout. 

The kitchen is a sociable area, but the dining table is important for family evenings detailing the day's events, hosting guests for dinner, and during special occasions like Christmas and birthdays. Lighting ideas for dining rooms are equally important as kitchen lighting, but have different requirements. Be sure to include good layering to adjust to the right mood, while still being able to see the table and food clearly. 

"There’s no right or wrong as it’ 's completely dependent on the type of property and the scale of the extension," adds Plain English's Adrian Bergman. "Explore various ideas and scrutinise each design until you find what works for you.:

8. Coordinate kitchen and dining room schemes

"Don't let colour be the last thing you think about. Using complimentary colours or materials to link living spaces together will help the design to flow," advises William Durrant. 

"People are getting braver with their choice of colour," he adds. "Brighter combinations of colour in the whole kitchen, on the island, on the main run of cabinet, on the dining table legs or in the utility are being used more and more. Not only does it add personality and style but it also sets the mood of the space."

9. Choose cupboards that hide away mess

Open plan is ideal for creating a social environment where those cooking still feel involved in conversation, but try to organise the design so no one has to stare at dirty dishes once the food has been served. 

Corner units with bifold doors keeping it neat, tidy and doesn’t obstruct the work flow of the kitchen when it’s in use, says William Durrant. "They also avoid clutter spilling into the kitchen worktops and we love how they are almost secret doors into Narnia." 

Other ideas might include a separate 'prep' area that can store used appliances and cutting boards.

How much does a kitchen/diner extension cost? 

While costs for any kind of extension are rather difficult to pin down given the current climate (namely materials and labour shortages), basic estimates sit at around £1,500/m2 but could increase up to £2,250/m2 (or higher). 

These costs can be altered by the amount of DIY you are willing to be involved with, construction material, the complexity level of architectural design, and whether the project needs planning permission. 

How much value do kitchen diner extensions add? 

Extending a house will generally increase a home's value, but a single storey extension for a new kitchen and dining space is not be best way to increase the value of a home. 

Loft conversions and double-storey extensions (which add either a bedroom or a bathroom) will offer more return on investment, according to Checkatrade. 

As with other home improvement projects, kitchen extension costs can sometimes be a little unpredictable as they are influenced by a variety of different factors – not least of all how you envisage the kitchen of your dreams.

Although kitchen extensions are one of the most common types of home improvement and will typically add value to a house, each project is unique and can vary hugely in terms of size, scale and design – and therefore overall cost.

Our guide to kitchen extension costs is here to bring clarity to the whole process, however. By explaining the different elements you need to include in your financial forecast along with expert advice on how much each element could cost, we'll help ensure you stay on track.

What is the average kitchen extension cost?

How much a kitchen extension costs is a big question and one that changes annually depending on costs for materials, labour and the general cost of living. And, when it comes to kitchen extension ideas, there are even more variables to take into account.

However, there are some average figures to take into account that can give you a starting point to work from and help you understand the size and type of extension you can afford, as well as how you finish the interior.

"On average, the majority of extension projects come in at approximately £1,750-£2,350/m² of new internal space – excluding VAT, design fees, structural engineer fees and costs associated with planning permission and Building Regulations applications, external works, contingency sum and preliminaries," says quantity surveyor, Tim Phillips.

"A 30m² single-storey kitchen extension could therefore range from £52,500 - £70,500. This is obviously quite a wide range, but it serves to highlight the amount of variables involved in this type of project," adds Tim. "Luckily, there is huge scope to alter the overall cost significantly, depending on the choices you make for every element of the design, build and finish."

These estimates include everything you would expect in a standard kitchen extension and are based on data captured for completed projects, but do always remember to also factor in premiums for those living in higher-cost areas such as London, where trades inevitably cost more.

What will affect your kitchen extension costs?

While our kitchen extension cost guide will you an indication of the average prices you can expect, the quotes you receive will be tailored to your individual project and so may vary. But, with the core of most kitchen extensions comprising similar items and processes, you can expect the main influencing factors to be as follows.

Size

It's fair to assume that the bigger your kitchen extension, the more you will have to pay – although it's worth noting that if you are weighing up the cost of a double storey extension vs a single storey, the costs won't necessarily double if you extend upwards as well as outwards. That said, the larger the opening between your existing home and your new kitchen extension, the higher the costs.

"If you are opening up a load-bearing wall you will have increased costs in terms of structural support needed," explains Tim Philips. "The larger the opening, the higher the cost – £1,750 should be sufficient for the average home. Or you may already have large windows or a patio door in place, and can use the existing lintel."

Specification

Both the external and internal specification will impact costs as a whole and your final specification and design choices can potentially increase your kitchen extension costs by tens of thousands of pounds.

Doors and windows costs will be impacted by the amount and size of glazing you opt for and the materials you choose. Standard uPVC windows will be at the lower end of the scale and huge bifold aluminium doors at the other. You may also be considering Velux type windows, or if glass extension ideas appeal, you will also need deeper pockets.

Bespoke items such as windows and doors will push your costs to the highest levels, and although more standard items such as flooring, lighting, kitchen ventilation and appliances will also need to be accounted for, these too can vary.

Construction method

The construction system you choose for your kitchen extension will naturally have a bearing on your final figures. Building with masonry is generally considered the cheapest. But, if you choose SIPs or a timber frame extension, you could end up paying more.

Making good

You'll also need to account for repair and redecoration costs for the room, or section of the house you have extended outwards from.

Site specific costs

And finally you may also encounter site specific costs unique to your particular projects. For example, nearby trees that may need specialist attention – check for any protected trees from the outset. Or you may need to build over a public sewer, meaning you’ll incur the additional costs (utility company plus legal fees) and time delays of a ‘build over’ agreement or the cost of redirection. You may also need to underpin existing foundations.

Likewise, if your home is a listed building or in a conservation area, then you will also need listed building consent (to avoid an unlimited fine or even imprisonment). While this is free, your overall costs are likely to go up due to the increased cost of specialist materials and skilled labour

Plumbing, drainage and electrics

Plumbing and drainage

Plumbing for a kitchen extension is usually carried out in two stages. First fix plumbing will involving installing the pipework to connect the water supply and the waste water drainage. Your plumber should check your existing system and work out the best method for adding a new supply and waste which may entail new pipework being laid under your floor or along walls.

Second fix involves the connection of appliances and taps – plus all pipework should be given a final check for leaks.

Similarly, if you require a gas cooking option, your gas supply will need to be re-routed at additional cost. This can only be done by a qualified ‘Gas Safe’ engineer and may prove quite complex work.

Electrics

Every extension space will require new sockets and lights, but a kitchen will always require far more of both, particularly with today’s endless range of electrical appliances and potential lighting solutions. In addition, you will need a supply for a cooker and hob, extraction fan, fridge-freezer, microwave, dishwasher etc. You will also need a separate 32-amp circuit for the cooking facilities, either installed if you don’t already have one, or extended.

You may also need to budget for a new consumer unit if the existing one or old fuse board has become damaged over time or simply doesn’t meet the increased power requirements. Your electrician may be required by regulations to upgrade the system to add new circuits

"It's also worth noting, if you are relocating a kitchen rather than just extending your current one, the further the extension is from the existing kitchen, the more your plumbing and drainage costs will increase," says Tim Phillips.

Fees and professional services

While you may be able to save on some of the labour costs by undertaking some of the work yourself, you will still need to budget for an element of professional fees or costs to get your kitchen extension in progress and complete.

These can include planning permission applications, building regulation fees and the services of professionals such as a structural engineer, architect or interior designer.

A breakdown of potential kitchen extension costs

If we take the example of a 30m² single-storey kitchen extension for someone with a budget of say £51,000, as an illustration, the key costs could be broken down into the following elements:

• Structure (foundations, walls and roof): £20,000
• Plumbing and heating: £3,500
• Electrics and lighting: £3,500
• Flooring: £1,500
• Kitchen units and worktops: £15,000
• Decorating: £2,000
• Bifold doors: £3,500
• Landscaping works/making good: £2,000

How your kitchen costs will impact your final figure

In terms of fitting out the kitchen itself, you'll need to account for a variety of different items ranging from cabinetry, worktops, appliances, tiles and flooring and lighting.

When it comes to fitting a kitchen, unless you plan on doing this yourself you will need to factor in kitchen installation costs which at the very least will likely start from around £3,000.

And, while we have comprehensive guides covering all of these different elements, headline figures breakdown as follows:

• Kitchen cabinets can start from as little as £1,000 for a basic DIY kitchen and range upwards of £60,000 – it really does depend on personal taste and how much money you have. More realistic average figures for new kitchens tend to hover around the £8,000 - £10,000 mark, easily rising to £20,000+
• Worktops can vary from a basic laminate at around £20-40/m² to Corian at around £500/m²
• Kitchen appliances can vary widely too. Smart kitchen ideas may set you back more if you are looking for the latest tech, whereas you could pick up a basic oven, hob, fridge-freezer and dishwasher for under £2,500
• Kitchen taps: It is possible to buy basic pillar-style kitchen taps for as little as £20. Opt for a tap with all the extras, such as instant filtered or boiling water and pull out spray hoses and you could easily end up paying upwards of £400 for your new fitting
• Kitchen wall tiles: While kitchen wall tiles can be picked up for as little as £7/m2 if opting for a simple, white ceramic design, remember to factor in the services of a tiler if not doing the job yourself. Tilers charge anything between £150-£300. Don't omit to factor in the cost of adhesive, spacers and grout
• Kitchen lighting: A kitchen extension needs great lighting to work well and be a pleasure to spend time in. Downlighters are popular kitchen lighting ideas and these can be picked up for around £10 per light.
• Kitchen flooring: At the most affordable end of the scale you have the options of vinyl or laminate from around £25/m², but opting for higher-end choices such as hardwood, stone or polished concrete can take the cost to over £100/m2

Additional kitchen extension costs

Although most of the items in your budget will be easy to identify as they will be physically present in your finished project, other costs to account for as previously mentioned include fees and those hidden extras you can incur, regardless of the nature of your project.

Professional fees

"Architects tend to charge fees between 7-10% of the build costs, but this can be as much as 15% if they are engaged to fully project manage the extension," says Tim Phillips. " Always get a fixed fee proposal from your Architect or Architectural Technician (CIAT) so if your build costs go up your design fees don't.

"You will also need a structural engineer to provide the structural drawings and calculations for the build, which will also need to be provided as part of the Building Regulations approval process," adds Tim, "and these will need to be signed off before the work commences. Structural engineer fees can start from around £500 but will increase depending on the nature and size of the extension."

Planning permission and Building Regulation fees

"The cost of a householder planning application will vary according to where you are in the UK, but as a guide the cost is currently £258 in England," explains Tim. "You may not need to pay for planning permission if your extension is small enough to meet the definition of ‘permitted development’ but always check the position with your local authority prior to any work.

If you are able to use permitted development rights, it is still advisable to apply for a certificate of lawful development as this proves the extension is legal. This will cost 50% of the relevant planning application fee for the extension, so £129 in England. The certificate doesn’t expire and is a cost worth incurring as it can provide instant reassurance for a future buyer.

Permitted development rights also allow for ‘larger rear extensions’ to be built without planning permission, but you will still need to obtain prior approval from your local authority at a cost of around £150.

Building Regs Approval will be required to ensure that the minimum design and construction standards are complied with, including energy performance, electric and gas safety, drainage and structural integrity. The cost of approval fees will vary according to your local authority fee rates, the nature and size of the project you’re undertaking and the number of visits required. Check your local authority’s website for a fee calculator. Fees will start from around £200.

Surveys, Party Wall and Insurance Costs

If you require planning permission, your local authority may insist on adding a range of additional survey and report costs to your brief, depending on your particular home. You may need a tree survey costing from £250, or an ecological survey such as a bat survey, costing from £400.

If your home happens to be within a flood zone, the planning authority can also demand a flood risk assessment (costing around £350). Those living in areas of archaeological interest can face additional report requests such as soil investigation reports, starting at around £1,500 for a single dwelling possibly rising to thousands if on-site observation is required.

If your kitchen extension means building on or close to a neighbour’s boundary, you may need a Party Wall Agreement, costing on average £1,500 and around £2,000 in London. These costs are multiplied by the number of neighbours affected.

You will also need to notify your insurer to check if your home will be covered for the extension works or whether you will need additional specialist cover. Failure to notify them could invalidate your policy. The extension is also likely to increase the rebuild cost, which can increase your annual premium

Hidden costs

Waste disposal

Hiring a large skip can cost up to £400 per skip in London and £280-£350 elsewhere. Skip hire costs usually include the licence fee for placing the skip on a highway, but in larger cities, it may be impossible to use the highway and your property may have insufficient space to accommodate it. If you need to place the skip in a residents’ parking bay you will need to pay for the space to be allocated to you. The cost will depend on the various local authorities so make sure you check and budget accordingly as this can add hundreds of pounds

Preliminaries

"These are the things you’re going to pay for during the build which won’t be there when you finish the project," explains Tim Phillips. "Aside from skips, think scaffolding, temporary fencing, cabins, materials store and even a mobile toilet. If required, set aside approximately 9-11% of your build cost.

External work or repairs

Don’t overlook the cost of things required outside of the extension itself. If you have extended out over what was formerly your patio or decked area, this will need to be replaced. Also, if you envisage your bifold doors opening out seamlessly onto a patio or terrace of the same level, it may mean excavation or building up the ground level. Your garden will undoubtedly need some money spent on it after it has been used as a building site for the extension.

FAQs

How can I save money on a kitchen extension?

All of the figures quoted above assume a contractor is being used, but you can save as much as 30% on these costs depending on how much of the potential DIY/labour aspects and project management you decide to undertake. Some tips for cutting costs include:

• Design around off-the-shelf items where possible – using standard plasterboard and window/door sizes can save hundreds if not thousands of pounds
• Work closely with your architect to identify bespoke design elements that could be changed to more affordable but visually similar options
• Consider reusing elements of your existing kitchen. If the carcasses of your existing cabinets are okay, just buy new doors and handles and maybe have your cabinets resprayed. If you are buying new cabinetry, advertise your old ones for sale as collection only, to recover some costs and save on disposal
• If you’ve relocated your kitchen and don’t need to renovate the old space immediately, leave it alone until cash flow allows. Just be aware that it is more cost effective to get the works done while you already have the tradespeople on site

Will a kitchen extension change my council tax band?

If you’re contemplating a substantial extension, be aware this has the potential to move your home into a higher council tax bracket.

Not sure where best to locate a kitchen extension? Find out if a lean to extension could give you sufficient space or whether a kitchen orangery extension would be the perfect way to bring the outdoors in.

One of the most popular reasons for building a kitchen extension is to curate a new hub for your family home. Whether this is a small side return on a terraced house, a full-width rear extension or an open plan orangery, kitchen extensions remain one of the most popular ways of extending a home.

Whether you're just barely beginning to consider a kitchen extension or in the throes of planning your project we've put together a selection of ideas from some of our favourite architects as well as the best recent examples from real-life case studies, to help you generate some ideas.

Kick start your kitchen extension with these ideas

Whether you're working with an architect, designer or doing the planning on a DIY basis, the first step is to hunt around to find kitchen ideas, designs and styles that inspire you.

Analysing how your existing home isn't fulfilling expectations or requirements is also a fantastic starting point to work out a priority list and design brief, as well as focusing your inspiration.

1. Keep costs down with a small kitchen extension

Kitchen extensions don't have to be huge, sprawling designs to transform an existing house. "Don't always assume that the only way to get what you want for your home is the widest, longest extension you can achieve under planning permission or Permitted Development," advises Laura Jane Clark, director of Lamp Architects.

"Often a big square extension can result in a dark cavernous home that will need extensive rooflights, windows and additional lighting. As cost-saving alternative, think about clever ways to use your design that will minimise the need for a huge extension."

By utilising large glazing panels and other small kitchen extension ideas, a greater connection with the garden can be established and the sense of space will be increased.

2. Pay attention to design details to elevate your project

It's easy to get lost in interior tasks like remodelling a kitchen space when planning an extension without considering how it may look from the outside.

“Creating an extension that stands out in a row of identical terrace houses is no easy feat. A quick glance at Rightmove reveals just how many poorly designed, copy-and-paste extensions there are," says George Guest, Architect at Studio Elephant.

"What sets this extension apart are the finer details that may not be apparent at first glance: the split-tone rainwater pipe; slim, colour-matched aluminium coping; and precise alignment of glazing bars and datum lines. These elements aren’t costly, just carefully considered to elevate the design and introduce character."

"Carefully crafted brickwork adds depth and texture, while slim-framed glazing with industrial-style bars gives it a modern edge. The fully glazed roof, accented by oak fins, floods the space with natural light and warmth, creating a lightweight connection back to the main house."

"I believe you can achieve a beautiful, unique extension of your home without breaking the bank through a design-led and detail-focused approach,” finishes George.

3. Design a cohesive space with zoned areas

Open plan kitchen extensions have long dominated kitchen layout designs, and for good reason. However, it's crucial to think about how these spaces will interact with each other and, importantly, how you can encourage flow through the room.

Whilst it's great to have a multifunctional space, be realistic about how this will work for you in reality. It helps to visualise the space and how you will manoeuvre the different areas.

Map out how you will travel from the kitchen area to the sofa, or the dining area, through the back door and into the garden. From this, aim to balance furniture placement with thoroughfares to save an awkward layout that is cumbersome to navigate.

4. Reduce embodied carbon with a timber frame construction

For the eco-conscious homebuilders among us, the choice of material used for a kitchen extension can greatly impact the carbon footprint our build leaves.

The above design showcases Studio Manifest's innovative timber frame kitchen extension and wood fibre construction methodology to reduce embodied carbon by 50%. Considering how well-insulated your material will be is important too.

Whilst upfront costs may be higher, using quality materials and build techniques will save money on energy bills in the long run.

For example this design uses building elements which are breathable, improving internal air quality by passively managing moisture, while the high thermal mass insulation ensures comfort in both winter and summer.

"Despite its innovative design, the project was built with simple, UK-sourced components to reduce costs, and features like timber batten screens for solar shading further enhance the space's sense of well-being," says Benjamin Powell, Founder & Director of Studio Manifest.

5. Bring in cost saving elements to stay in budget

Kitchen extension costs will vary greatly. Naturally this will depend on the quality of construction and the level of detailing. For instance, using off-the-shelf sizes for patio doors and designing a kitchen that comes from IKEA will massively reduce costs compared with bespoke glazing and made-to-measure units.

"Start with your ideal design and then gather quotes based on this. It also pays to do your research and gather different quotes to ensure you are getting the best offer. Of course, anything you can do yourself such as ripping out the existing kitchen, painting walls, tiling or laying flooring will all help to shave pounds off your budget" says Molly Chandler, kitchen designer at Willis & Stone.

"It's also a good idea to add in an extra 5 -10% contingency to the overall anticipated kitchen extension budget to allow for unexpected costs or changes," adds Molly.

That said, a kitchen is an investment. Not just in terms of how much use it will get in return for the money spent, but most experts agree on whether a kitchen extension adds value, that the answer is categorically yes.

6. Plan fittings and furnishings in tandem with architectural elements

It helps to have as much collaboration with your architect or contractor as possible by sharing your kitchen extension ideas in order to really execute your vision.

In this example, architect George Guest established the architectural drawings while homeowner Lizzie planned the fittings and furnishings. Together, the designers proposed removing the walls separating the home’s two rear rooms and adding a neat side return extension to create a spacious, 40m2 kitchen-diner.

At one end would sit a C-shaped kitchen with a central island, while at the other would be a large banquette table suitable for family meals and larger gatherings. A glass roof, floor-to-ceiling picture window and sliding doors would draw in ample light and create a seamless flow out to the garden. As for interior design, Lizzie took inspiration from the park next door, incorporating wildflower prints, fresh greens, sky blues and warm timbers into her design.

The heart of the home, the couple’s new kitchen-diner is defined by its striking glazing elements, bold pops of colour and floral banquette table – the perfect space for family meals, social occasions and future homework sessions.

7. Consider a cork extension for a sustainable and budget approach

Perhaps a bit of a marmite material in terms of aesthetics, what is completely indisputable about cork are its eco credentials and excellent material properties. In fact, there are so many things to love about cork as a potential material for a sustainable kitchen extension.

“In the current climate emergency it is up to architects to start specifying materials that are sustainable and offer additional solutions for clients regardless of budget," begins Nim of nimtim architects.

"On a project like Cork House (above) our focus lay on where we could achieve the most impact for the least cost/intervention. Cork is great because of its insulative properties but also the fact it can be composted down."

"The question of how to dispose of expanded foam and other similar crude oil derived insulations hasn’t really been properly addressed. So using a material that can achieve the required thermal performance and that we know is easily and safely disposed of is reassuring for us and our clients.

"Cork offers so much as a building material. It ticks all the boxes when it comes to thermal and acoustic performance but is also breathable, free from chemicals, synthetic resins and carcinogenic materials and creates a healthy environment inside the house. It seemed the obvious choice to expose it internally as well as externally," says Nim.

Shop cork building materials on Amazon

8. Create a layout which complements your lifestyle

When starting kitchen extension ideas from scratch it can be difficult to visualise a new layout with a blank canvas. We're so used to making do with awkward or idiosyncratic spaces in our homes that when faced with endless possibilities, it's easy to get overwhelmed.

Research different types of kitchen layout ideas and try to remember times when you might have interacted with each of them. Perhaps your childhood home has a large central island where the family gathered and you'd like to recreate it. Or, is there a galley kitchen in a friend's house that you love and would like to emulate the convenience? Likewise, do you hate the single-line kitchens of holiday lets and know that's not for you?

"A good first step is to assess whether your current kitchen layout works for you or if it needs adjustments to better suit your lifestyle," says Molly Chandler. "Determine what you want and need in terms of specific appliances and cabinetry features, such as a pantry cupboard for storage or a designated coffee/breakfast station for convenience.

"Consider your cooking habits – if you cook frequently, you may require more space for appliances and ample storage for ingredients."

9. Flood the space with natural light with an orangery extension

When designing a kitchen extension, spend time and effort on making sure plenty of natural light infiltrates the space - but don't make the rest of the house feel dark. This is a delicate balance, but one that is important to get right.

Find inspiration from glazed kitchen extension ideas and kitchen extensions with skylights to think of ways to ensure your space feels light and airy, but is also practical.

It's also important to remember that adding extra glazing, with an orangery kitchen extension for example, may also impact building regulations approval under approved document Part L which states that the area of windows, roof windows and glazed doors mustn't account for more than 25% of the extension's floor area.

This is to ensure thermal efficiency, but being able to demonstrate the new extension won't create any more CO2 emissions than one with less glazing should help to ensure approval.

10. Transform a galley kitchen with an L-shaped wrap-around extension

Transform your galley kitchen ideas with a wrap-around extension. Extending out to the rear and side will not only increase a home's value, but rearranging the existing rooms to suit an open plan lifestyle will also make the layout flow more easily.

Tessa Milton, an interior designer, was inspired by her sage green childhood kitchen to build a relaxing new extension, with unique furniture made to her own designs. Tessa lives with her children in a three-storey, three-bedroom, terraced house.

Her brief to design and build company, Plus Rooms, was to demolish an existing lean-to and extend to the side, creating a wraparound timber-framed kitchen/dining extension opening onto the garden.

Design, build and materials for the extension cost £64,000. Today, Plus Rooms estimates a price of around £80,000 for a similar seven-metre-deep pitched-to-hip roof wraparound extension, measuring 4.8 metres wide.

11. Incorporate a roof canopy for extra outdoor dining space

If outdoor living is important to you, consider how you can capitalise on creating a practical outdoor area whilst getting a kitchen extension designed.

"The homeowners behind this extension project are Mediterranean and they wanted an outdoor covered area to sit and enjoy the garden," explains Allie Mckinnon, project runner for nimtim Architects who designed this kitchen extension idea.

"The house is west-facing at the rear and we designed the roof canopy to give shelter as well as reduce solar gain from the largely glazed extension.

"We also added in opening roof lights to bring in additional light and to create air movement and ventilation through the space. For those extending, the aspect of your design is important to consider and we would suggest plotting the proposed scheme in-situ and noting how sunlight affects the area throughout the day."

12. Extend to the side if rear space is limited

If you're unwilling or unable to extend onto the back of your house, build to the side instead. This avenue also benefits people who don't want to change the existing vista.

Side extension ideas can come in all shapes and sizes, but when installing a kitchen into the addition, be sure the flow from one end of the house to the other is seamless so that it doesn't feel like a temporary addition to your home.

In this design, the owners built a kitchen extension to the main building of their period stone cottage connected via a walkway making it a contemporary fit-for-purpose space without compromising the rustic charm of the original property.

13. Transform a bungalow with a vaulted extension

While bungalows are often considered dated and perceived as unsuitable for families, they usually have a large garden plot which gives plenty of scope for kitchen extension ideas that can help reinvigorate the layout.

Play with different scales in ceiling heights and pitches for bungalow extensions. Emphasise an asymmetrical form or create a whole new character through a complete remodel. These properties can act as the perfect blank canvas for your kitchen extension ideas.

Here, the mid-century aesthetics of the bungalow have been embraced in the creation of a kitchen diner while the vaulted ceiling adds a new sense of drama.

14. Plan important elements with current or future needs in mind

Sliding or concertina doors are hugely popular for opening up an outdoor space, but it is possible to get the design wrong or choose something that works for now, but may not be fit for purpose if future circumstances change.

When installing bifold or sliding patio doors in a new kitchen extension, the devil is in the details. The difference between high and low-quality materials will be noticeable after years of use, so make sure your choice is the right one.

You may have particular accessibility needs, or sensibly considering the future-proofing of your home. Therefore your choice of doorway and threshold is all the more key, so spend time considering access between in and out. Also how easy doors are to open and close for people with sight loss or muscle and joint problems for example.

15. Create a playful blend of materials in your new kitchen extension

Bring a new material into a kitchen extension by considering different kitchen splashback ideas, adding an unusual worktop or opting for kitchen decor ideas that help add a wow factor to your interior.

Previously suffering from low ceilings and a lack of natural light, the kitchen and dining space of this terraced house has been reconfigured by Yard Architects, thanks to a single storey extension.

Strip roof lights bring light into the new space while oak batten cladding lines the dining space and back wall of the kitchen, concealing the larder cupboard and fridge.

16. Combine old and new in a small cottage kitchen extension

A lovely way to introduce a new kitchen when planning for cottage extensions is to let both the new and the old really shine in their own right. Let interesting oak beams or stone walls contrast with large swathes of glazing and the contemporary textures of your new addition.

This granite stone cottage was beautifully extended using a small conservatory. The original inglenook stands proud (left of shot) against the new cast concrete island and is perfectly contrasted with more modern fixtures and fittings.

17. Create drama with dual height kitchen extension ideas

Going up two stories, rather than just one gives the opportunity for a sense of architectural drama and the ability to create and connect other spaces.

Double-storey extensions won't cost much more per square metre than single-storey and can (in some cases) still fall under permitted development rights.

In this extension to an old storage barn, the homeowners used their two-storey extension to create a reading nook above their living space on the mezzanine while a bridge landing leads to the bedrooms.

18. Use exterior cladding for a stand-out design

A new extension is not just an opportunity to transform interior spaces, but also to give the exterior of a tired or dated home a refresh and regeneration.

Opting for interesting house cladding choices can take an extension from being a square box to a stunning new space with wow-factor.

This terrace kitchen extension used corten steel to complement the shades within the original Victorian brickwork. But there are other, more budget-friendly options too such as cork. Discuss options with your architect or contractor.

19. Consider a second-hand solution for your kitchen extension idea

While a brand new kitchen bespoke to the space and your lifestyle is extremely tempting during a project, considering a second hand kitchen is an amazing way to cut-costs or get a higher-quality finish for less.

This beautiful walnut kitchen in an orangery-inspired extension was originally priced at £60,000 and designed for another family home. The new owner bought it from the Used Kitchen Exchange for just £9,000 complete with Miele appliances.

20. Select your flooring to create cohesion

You might choose to completely separate the new kitchen extension from the rest of the house, but one stylish trick is to install the same kitchen flooring in the spaces that lead to the new extension.

Subtly linking together the rooms will result in a greater feeling of cohesion throughout your home, without making the old rooms feel tired or underloved.

“As a natural material, wood flooring is the perfect pairing for all manner of kitchen styles," says Natalie Mudd, creative director at The Wood Flooring Company. "It can be the perfect finishing touch for classic shaker-style kitchens, but can also add warmth and longevity to more modern, streamlined designs.

"Parquet-engineered wood flooring designs including herringbone and chevron are also hugely popular in kitchens since they add contrast and interest to otherwise straight sight lines.

"Or, if you prefer to keep your flooring more streamlined, straight planks work equally as well," says Natalie, "and can have the effect of making a space seem larger than it actually is."

21. Give kitchen extension lighting extra time to shine

The joy of a kitchen extension is that you get to plan and tailor every specific element of your new space. And this should definitely include the lighting scheme.

While a grid of downlights is cheap and somewhat easy to fall back on, this will not fulfil all of the lighting requirements for a kitchen. Play with kitchen lighting ideas like wall lights near open shelving, pendant lights over an island, LED strips under cupboards and so on.

The effect of a good lighting scheme in a new kitchen is undeniable. Make sure you use the best kitchen lighting you can afford - it will make all the difference. You could even consider whether you need a lighting designer to really elevate your extension.

22. Add a modern extension to a terrace house

Utilising the wasted space to the side of a terrace house is one of the most popular extension designs. Essentially doubling the size of the kitchen, it can also give scope for adding extra dining and living space.

This home's terrace house extension which is located to the side of the previous galley kitchen has opened up the space to add a dining area with roof lights above.

Be sure to consider the roof line when looking at rear extension ideas. A pitched roof, like the one above, should stay in line with any existing angles.

FAQS

What permissions do I need for a kitchen extension?

When planning your kitchen extension, you will need to ensure various permission or approval processes are included within your timeline.

Planning permission for extensions is often required, or at the very least, permitted development approval. Your extension will also need to comply with the Building Regulations and will be inspected at different stages of the build.

If your extension involves a boundary wall, you will be required to arrange for party wall agreements to comply with the Party Wall Act. This will involve serving a Party Wall Notice to adjoining neighbours.

For more inspiration for your kitchen extension ideas, make sure to look at our guide to matching materials for an extension.

As is the experience of so many, when Jess and Reuven Young bought their London terrace house in 2015 it was really dark inside but had an amazing, well-established garden at the back. 

"We’re originally from New Zealand and I loved growing up on our farm and having a view over the mountains when we had breakfast every morning," says Jess. "I knew I wanted a piece of that here in London. The house had a tiny set of French doors from the galley kitchen but you wouldn’t really know the garden was there otherwise."

A small kitchen extension and remodelling scheme has now transformed the heart of their home into a light, stylish open-plan space. What's more, those allow-important views of the garden are now framed by an incredible picture window.

Here, we explore the key steps they took to revamp their home…

1. Design a Small Extension to Widen the Space

Creative small house extension ideas were all it took to transform the home into a light-filled haven for the young family.

"We brought in an architect [Richard Bridges of AO Architecture] and we agreed it was all about getting as much light into the back of the house as possible so we decided to push out the side return."

The delicate detailing around the existing windows with contrasting brick was replicated around the new picture window, giving the entire home a uniform feel. 

2. Add Glazing to Bring in Natural Light

"One thing that needed a lot of attention was the glazing," explains Jess. "We made sure every piece of glass we put in was engineered very specifically because we wanted the absolute smallest amount of framing visible."

Kitchen window ideas include the picture window looking out towards the garden, inlayed with Iroko timber, and a large sliding door to help let in natural light.

"It is a testament to Andy and the team at Create Bespoke because it was a really big job to make that piece of glass appear frameless. The frame is actually sat behind the brick which was a really complicated process to calculate all the brickwork precisely. I can’t tell you how many times Andy came to site with his tape measure to make sure it was all lining up."

A long rooflight also runs the length of the workspace in the kitchen, providing helpful natural light for whomever is cooking. 

"I think the biggest thing the rooflight does for us is to light up the crackle glazed tiles (from Milagros). Through the course of the day as the light shifts the tiles look different.

3. Build a Galley Kitchen with an Island

"I didn't really know what I wanted from the kitchen," admits Jess. "The only thing I knew we needed was the fridge to be relatively close to a table and sink. 

"Because we had such a tall space, the kitchen company (Puccini Kitchens) designed full-height cupboards and at the time I remember thinking 'we don't need all this storage', but now of course all of the cupboards are full! The lesson I learned was to never underestimate the amount of storage in a kitchen." 

Tall, useful cupboards such as these work well with other galley kitchen ideas such as a clear workspace. 

Jess has utilised the floor-to-ceiling cupboards next to the table as a breakfast nook. “The doors of the cupboard slide away and everything you need is two steps away!” 

Pendant lights from Graham and Greene illuminate the work spaces while the large sliding door opens the space out to the patio and garden beyond. 

A kitchen extension can truly transform your home. From grand open-plan spaces to simple side returns, turning a cramped cooking environment into a spacious and welcoming space can be life-changing.

But, regardless of the size of your kitchen extension, it still involves costs, time and potential upheaval to your daily life, which is why understanding the fundamentals of what's involved is essential.

From budgeting through to choosing your professional team, we take you through the process to help you figure out what you need to do, and more importantly, how to get what you need from your new kitchen extension.

1. How much should I budget for a kitchen extension

Before getting into the details regarding the design and look of your kitchen extension ideas, it's important to understand how much money you will need to have available to cover your kitchen extension costs.

As a guide, while there will be a variance in final spend depending on the size, style and quality of the extension, as well as your geographical location, kitchen extensions can cost between £1,750-£2,350/m² of new internal space.

Rick Fabrizio, founder of Tholos Architects suggests taking the following approach.

1) Start with what you can or want to spend

2) Divide by 1.2 to see the amount excluding VAT

3) Subtract statutory (council, building control, etc) and professional fees (architect, engineer, party wall agreements etc) and this will give you a net project cost.

"The fee you can expect to pay for a Chartered Architect or small firm to take care of all the design stages – including surveying the property, looking after planning approval and designing the construction details and specifications, can be anything from £6,000 up to £12,000," notes Rick.

"The range is wide as it depends on not only the complexity of the job, but also allows for possible extra services such as interior design, 3D visuals and taking care of the bidding process with contractors."

There will also be building regulations and planning fees, insurance and so on.

Once you've totted up the sums, make sure you add at least another 10% for contingency. Your extension will almost always cost more than you expected it to, so it’s important to have a contingency fund you can fall back on.

Don't underestimate your plumbing and electrical costs

“One area that’s notoriously prone to cost overruns is supplying the heating, kitchen lighting and power,” warns chartered surveyor, Ian Rock. “It’s fairly common to underestimate how many lights, sockets and taps will ultimately be needed in new extensions, and this can often trigger unbudgeted charges for ‘extras’.

"Often very little thought is given to assessing whether the existing power and heating systems will be up to the job of coping with the additional load, too," he adds. "Therefore, before extending your existing services it’s worth giving them a quick health check too."

Your electrician will need to check the existing system to see whether rewiring is necessary. They will then return to carry out second fix electrics – such as connections to plug sockets – before the worktops are fitted.

A plumber will check that the existing pipework is in good condition. You will need to ensure you have both a hot and cold water supply, as well as a waste pump from the sink to the outside. Kitchen appliances, such as your washing machine and dishwasher, will also need to be connected to the water supply.

2. Will I need planning permission for a kitchen extension?

If you are only planning on adding a small house extension, then you may be covered under permitted development (PD) rights and therefore not require planning consent.

However, bear in mind that if your house is in a Conservation Area or national park, the amount of work you can do under PD is usually reduced and you may require planning permission.

You will also need to apply for listed building consent for any work to listed buildings. To be covered under PD rights, a single-storey extension should:

• Be a maximum height of four metres
• Not extend beyond the original rear wall of the house by more than six metres if it is an attached house (i.e. semi-detached), or eight metres for a detached home
• If you are adding a side extension, this must be single-storey with a width of no more than half that of the original house

If your design falls out of these conditions, you will require planning permission regardless of whether you are adding an extension or knocking down internal walls. If you have any doubts, you should check with your local planning department before proceeding with your plans.

Kitchen extensions and the Party Wall Act

If in building a kitchen you require work to the boundary walls between your house and your neighbours' homes, then you will also need to comply with the Party Wall Act .
As part of the process, you’ll need to serve a Party Wall Notice to adjoining neighbours. This is notice of the work you intend to do and should be served at least two months before work begins.

If they consent within 14 days to the work, then you can begin. If they don’t, you and your neighbour will need to appoint a party wall surveyor (this may or may not be the same company) to draft up a party wall ‘award’, which describes how work will proceed.

3. What building regulations approval will I need?

A kitchen extension will require building regulations approval to ensure that the minimum design and construction standards are achieved. For this you will need to send an application to the local authority, where you pay a fee and the building inspector visits the site at the various stages of the build and inspects the work as it proceeds.

Most kitchen extensions will need to meet a minimum set of technical standards.

These will include:

• Energy performance
• Structural integrity as most extensions require foundations
• Protection against falls and unsafe walls
• Electric and gas safety as most extensions require new systems
• Fire protection to ensure safe passage from your home to a safe external area

And, if you are looking at glazed kitchen extension ideas, or a kitchen extension with skylights, don't get caught out by the rule that states that the area of windows, roof windows and glazed doors must not account for more than 25% of the extension’s floor area. It's covered in Part L of the building regulations documents.

“The reason for this restriction is simply down to thermal efficiency,” says Ian Rock. “Since even quite advanced glazing leaks significantly more heat than the equivalent area of wall, which now need to achieve the stipulated minimum U value target of 0.18W/m2K (as covered in Approved Document L1B – Conservation of Fuel and Power of the Building Regs)."

If you wish to create a highly glazed extension, you'll need prove that the design won't cause more CO2 emissions than a less glazed version of the design.

4. What kitchen extension design should I choose?

The design of your kitchen extension will be dictated to a certain extent by the first three points we've covered, but getting the design right also involves taking a look at what you need, how the new extension will work with your existing home, and how it impacts on your outdoor space too.

The key? Taking a holistic approach to how the end result looks.

"The most important consideration is to design the interior of the extension in parallel with the exterior shell," advises Emily Newmarch, design consultant at Kitchens by Holloways.

"Too often, extensions are planned structurally before the kitchen layout is considered, which can compromise proportions, flow and functionality. Start by being clear about how the space will be used, whether it’s a kitchen-dining space, kitchen-living-dining room, or a multifunctional family area and work from the inside out," she says.

Size vs needs

Size is of course a key variable, but it's important not to underestimate the difference even a small kitchen extension can have. Even extending by as little as 1m or so can really help open up a space, giving you options to remodel the layout so that you can get more out of it.

"There’s no fixed minimum size for a kitchen extension," confirms Emily. "What matters is what the space achieves. In some cases, reconfiguring the existing ground floor can deliver the desired result without extending at all.

"A small extension can still be worthwhile if it unlocks better layout, light, circulation or storage, such as allowing space for a pantry, utility area or more usable kitchen layout. Simply 'adding a box' doesn’t guarantee a better space – thoughtful planning does," she notes.

"A designer will start by focusing on how the space will function day to day: seating requirements, circulation, sight lines, storage needs and how the kitchen connects to living and dining zones," explains Emily.

"Practical considerations such as the position of glazing, radiators, fireplaces, pantry space, utilities and door thresholds will all influence layout decisions. Designers will also consider the architectural style of the home, ensuring the extension’s proportions, ceiling heights and detailing complement whether the kitchen is traditional or contemporary," she adds.

Ask yourself what do you need from the extra space? Is it space for a utility room and downstairs WC, a kitchen diner, or to create a better connection between your kitchen and outdoor space?

Think carefully about glazing

Also think about ways of getting light into your kitchen extension, by looking at variables such as where the sunlight catches the kitchen throughout the day as this will all help determine where to locate it, how big to go and how to glaze it and shade it to prevent overheating (if it’s south facing).

Will full width sliding patio doors be the best option? Could a bank of rooflights help bring light deep into the floorplan, and ensure existing rooms still receive daylight?

If your kitchen extension is to the rear of the property, consider bifold doors that open to the garden design. The full-height glazing will allow in plenty of sunlight as well as offering views of the outside.

If you are choosing to add a side extension or are after more privacy, then opting for clerestory windows is another good design solution.

Get specific on details

Also drill down on the some of the details about how you currently or want to be able to use your kitchen, suggests Rick Fabrizio.

"For example, do you use cast-iron cookware, knead dough, deep fry, use special appliances, host your guests in the kitchen, use more fresh or dried foods, have pets, cook with your partner or children and so on," he explains.

"The reason for such detailed questions is that as they tell their story I'm able to start envisioning their need for kitchen storage and worktop space. I can start to predict how they will move around, interact with other rooms of the house and how much privacy they will need in the space.

"It may seem minute detail," says Rick, "but it is important to understand the anthropometrics of the space – that is the relationship between the physical elements and human body dimensions.

"In more simple terms, it's about making sure you don't have to step on a ladder every time you have to access a cupboard or open a window."

Broken plan or open plan?

While many people extend to be able to create a larger open-plan kitchen, this isn't the only option available. Broken-plan layouts can offer you more defined areas and hard divisions or partitions which can reduce noise and food smells, and provide a more intimate environment.

If this sounds more like the ground floor layout you need, look at how you can carve out corners where you can place the kitchen, dining table or even a snug. Options such as having a different floor heights or introducing half-height stud walls can all be architectural tricks that make your space easier to live in.

Kitchen island ideas that separate the work station units and the dining table, for instance, are the ideal way of creating a break between the two spaces. They can also help with your kitchen storage, and even give you the option of installing a hob and sink. Or, a simple breakfast bar idea may be all you need to zone the kitchen from the dining area.

5. What professionals do I need for a kitchen extension?

Using an architect

Architects are often used for a kitchen extension, especially when the owners are looking for an innovative design. However, it's also possible that a simple kitchen extension can be designed by the likes of a design-and-build company or an architectural technologist.

Essentially, you’re after a designer with a range of skills that suit your needs. Word of mouth recommendations are always key, as is hiring someone you have a rapport with. That may well mean choosing an architect, but it might just as easily be a local house designer without any formal qualifications. Insurance is key, of course, but many non-architects have that, too.

What's important to remember is that whether you hire a range of individuals to work on the kitchen extension, or opt for a full service package from an architect, someone must be well versed in building regulations in order to take responsibility for creating and submitting the necessary drawings and plans.

Sourcing a builder

Whether you’re looking for a reputable builder to bring in their own subbies or sourcing individual trades yourself, personal recommendation is the best way to find a high-quality professional.

Remember, good word of mouth is one of the best forms of advertising in the industry, so happy clients from past projects will often be more than happy to give their builder a plug. When speaking to a builder, asking to speak to past clients can often provide you with reassurance you are hiring the right company.

Family, friends and neighbours are a good first port of call, failing that, your architect or designer should be able to recommend professionals they have worked with on successful past projects.

Once you’ve compiled a list of potential people, contact them for an informal chat about the project. Ask about their range of skills, experience and workload, using the conversation to try and gauge their level of interest in your project. For main contractors in particular, ask if you can speak to previous clients or see past examples of their work to ascertain the quality of the workmanship.

Official registration can also provide peace of mind. You can find out if the tradesperson is registered as part of a competent persons’ scheme, such as the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) for your contractor or the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) for roofers, and so on.

Once you’ve spent plenty of time digging into the details and speaking to various professionals, you’ll be able to begin whittling down the list of people you want to bring onto your project.

When selecting builders to carry out the work it's always a good idea to avoid agreeing to a day rate based contract. Always agree on a fixed price where possible. If you've allocated a contingency fund, don't include this in the fixed price so that you have an extra pot of money if something unavoidable happens during the build.

6. How long does a kitchen extension take to build?

Project time for building an extension depends largely on whether you need planning permission or not, the overall size, the type of interior fit-out, and the specifications you choose.

A single-storey kitchen extension, for example, will on average take 12 weeks to construct, however, if you are specifying extras such as architectural glazing or remodelling the whole of your ground floor layout then this will naturally add extra time to your extension schedule.

FAQs

How much value does a kitchen extension add? 

One of the key questions you may aks before starting your project, is does a kitchen extension add value? Even if you aren't planning on selling anytime soon, you may want to know the amount to help set your budget. After all, you may be reluctant to spend more than you will ever get back.

While the uplift in value will be dependant on the size and the benefit the kitchen extension adds to your home, some experts suggest you can expect a return of around 20%, while others are less generous, stating closer to 10%.

Either way, before working out your budget for a kitchen extension, consult an estate agent about the house price ceiling in your area to get a better idea of where you should be prioritising any home renovation spend.

Is a kitchen extension worth it?  

If you have a small kitchen, a kitchen extension is one of the most valuable areas of your home you can extend to create a more usable space. Whether you're looking at a large wrap-around extension or kitchen conservatory extensions, incorporating a dining or living space into your kitchen can help free up room in the rest of your home.

It has the potential of a domino-effect, perhaps giving you a much needed home office space or the opportunity to create a guest bedroom. Once you change the layout downstairs, you can often rework the layout upstairs too.

So, if your main goal is to increase the volume of available space, extending will certainly offer value for money in comparison to the fees associated with finding and buying a new house.

How can I pay for a kitchen extension?

If you are considering how you can finance your project, there are several ways you may be able to fund a kitchen extension, including:

• Using your savings
• Re-mortgaging your home
• Credit cards (look for a 0% interest card)
• Take out a second mortgage on your home
• Unsecured loan

Each of these options has its pros and cons, but it's important not to take on more of a financial commitment than you're able to pay back. Failing to pay when refinancing against your home can lead to the bank potentially repossessing your home.

Keen to explore some more design options for your kitchen extension? For a light-filled addition to your home, take a look at these orangery kitchen extension ideas, or, if you prefer the look of wood, we've rounded up 10 oak frame kitchen extension ideas that perfectly fit the bill.

When it comes to choosing a kitchen extension, a kitchen conservatory extension is an option if you're looking for a light and bright kitchen space. However, the combination of a highly glazed solution and the practical needs of a kitchen can require extra planning and consideration.

Ensuring there is sufficient power supply, ventilation, heating and storage space can be tricky when traditional conservatory design favours larger areas of glazing over solid walls and ceilings.

But, with the right information and advice, it's usually possible to turn your dream into a reality. We've sourced expert advice to ensure your kitchen conservatory extension ticks all the right boxes.

A kitchen conservatory extension requires team work

“For anyone who is considering putting a kitchen into a conservatory," says Mervyn Mongomery, founder and joint director of Hampton Conservatories , "it’s important to involve both the glazed extension designer and kitchen designer from the outset. 

"This will ensure that utilities and services such as lighting, extraction, plumbing, electric sockets, etc. have been considered so they are positioned and installed correctly in the desired areas to maximise the functionality and aesthetics of the space.”

So, to get the best results from your kitchen conservatory ideas, arm yourself with a team work mentality and follow the rest of our checklist to create a kitchen conservatory extension that's just right for you.

Design & layout

Structural design

While kitchen conservatory extension may be a good descriptive term for a highly-glazed extension to your home, it’s likely that the resulting structure will be defined slightly differently than your everyday conservatories. 

When does a conservatory become an extension comes down primarily to whether you need to apply for planning permission or not. A conservatory is essentially defined as a structure that is separated from the original house by external walls and external grade windows and/or doors. This means a conservatory in traditional terms is not necessarily suitable for creating a desirable open plan kitchen space. 

Instead, widening your extension horizons to include an orangery extension, sunroom and other glass extension ideas with some amount of solid walls and roof, is a good idea when considering a kitchen conservatory extension.

Open plan layout

"To ensure a seamless flow and efficient use of space, an open-plan design is highly recommended," says Virgina Murray, director at Mozolowski & Murray. "This approach not only maximises the available space but also enhances the flow between the kitchen, dining, and living areas, fostering an environment conducive to both cooking and socialising.

"For an open-plan conservatory kitchen to work, structural design is meticulously planned to create defined spaces without physical barriers," adds Virginia. "Open-beam ceilings can lend an airy feel while providing distinct zones through varying heights or finishes."

However, it's important to remember that the same basic principles apply when you're designing a kitchen for a conservatory extension, as they do when you're sourcing a kitchen for an existing room within your home. 

"Incorporating the kitchen triangle concept of strategically placing the sink, refrigerator, and stove in a triangular layout is still key," says Virginia, "as it further optimises efficiency, reducing unnecessary movements during meal preparation."

Location of cabinets and appliances

"The functioning kitchen area will generally work best if positioned towards the rear of the room," says George Lucas, marketing designer at Vale Garden Houses, "where you will usually have ample wall space to accommodate cabinetry and kitchen appliances. It's likely there will already be water and electricity connections too, making it easier to fit your new appliances and provide a connection for the best kitchen sink."

If you are considering an orangery extension for your kitchen, it may also be worth chatting with your designer to discuss the height of the walls on which your glazing sits.

"Increasing the height of the wall on which the glazing sits," says George, "could mean you can accommodate more kitchen units. Low walls are usually around 500mm high to provide maximum enjoyment of the outdoor view," he explains, "but increasing this to around 900mm high could provide you with more options when it comes to fixtures and fittings."

Storage

"The most important consideration for any busy kitchen and keen cook, is providing adequate space for all your equipment, preparation, cooking and cleaning, and foodstuff," says George Lucas. "It is therefore really important to make sure that wall space is well utilised within the scheme."

Some of the tricks to getting the kitchen storage ideas in your kitchen conservatory extension right can be different to other kitchen storage ideas in more solid extensions.

"In smaller kitchen conservatories for example," says Virginia Murray, "optimising every structural element for space efficiency is crucial. Bespoke companies frequently introduce innovative solutions, such as ceiling-mounted storage systems and retractable counters that fold away when not needed, to maximise the use of available space.

"In larger spaces on the other hand, maximising vertical space with tall cabinets and incorporating an island unit" she suggests, "can significantly enhance storage options and provide additional workspace."

The key to picking a kitchen that lasts? Don't forget to select materials and finishes that can withstand the unique conditions of a conservatory, such as fluctuations in temperature and humidity", says Virginian, "both to ensure longevity and maintain the aesthetic appeal of the kitchen."

Colour

"Colour choices should aim to reflect light and enhance the sense of space, with light colours preferred for walls and cabinetry," says Virginia Murray. 

"Accent colours can add depth and character, but are often introduced through kitchen decor ideas, a backsplash, or a feature wall. This strategy helps in creating a visually larger and more inviting space."

Glazing & ventilation

Glazing

“Conservatories generally incorporate more glass when compared with garden rooms or orangeries, as a result, they can be known to overheat if not planned appropriately," says Mervyn Montgomery. 

"Common additions that help to reduce the chance of overheating include solar-control glass and temperature control technology such as automatic roof vents. Furthermore, opting for timber over UPVC will help control the temperature of the room."

"Incorporating high-performance glazing in conservatory kitchens is crucial for ensuring year-round comfort through UV protection and temperature control," agrees Virginia Murray. "The roofing design is crucial, potentially incorporating elements such as roof lantern or skylights and the selection of roofing materials significantly impacts both the kitchen's ambiance and its thermal efficiency."

Other steps you can you can take to reduce the chances of excessive glare or heat include:

• Ensuring that the extension is located on the optimum facing — sympathetic aspect of your home — is a great place to start in preventing overheating. South-facing orientations will see a lot of sun, all day, while north-facing extensions are more shady, and these rooms could often benefit with the extra light afforded by a kitchen conservatory extension
• Shading in the form of conservatory roof blinds is an effective way to block out excessive sunlight to keep a conservatory extension cooler

Doors and structural glazing

Extra attention to glazing is also needed if you are considering a wrap-around kitchen conservatory extension advises Virginia.

"The unique structural challenges of wrap-around conservatories include the need for careful consideration of load-bearing walls and the seamless integration of the new structure with the existing building.

"To achieve this, specialised glazing that wraps around corners is employed," explains Virginia, "facilitating a smooth transition between the kitchen and the conservatory areas while maximising the influx of natural light and providing expansive views."

For an enhanced connection between indoors and outdoors, bi-fold doors or sliding patio doors also create a seamless flow and an unobstructed view, making the overall area feel more expansive and inviting.

Ventilation

“There are certain considerations when locating furniture and appliances in a glazed extension. For example, a kitchen needs to be well ventilated so that any heat from cooking or appliances can escape," says Mervyn Montgomery.

Electronic or integrated roof vents within your design may be considered an essential.

"These vents not only aid in temperature regulation and air quality improvement by allowing hot air to escape and fresh air to circulate," says Virginia Murray, "but also play a critical role in expelling cooking smells and steam, maintaining a pleasant and odour-free environment within the conservatory kitchen."

"When designing around a kitchen project," says George Lucas, "we usually specify good side ventilation coupled with roof ventilation to create a through draft. We would also recommend choosing the best kitchen extractor fan to deal with local moisture and smells."

Getting the combination of natural air flow and mechanical ventilation will serve to  enhances the overall functionality and comfort of the space, making it work for all of your culinary and socialising needs.

Heating & lighting

Heating

Of course, a kitchen conservatory extension is in year round usage, so space heating is also an important consideration for the space. Taking a fabric first approach by specifying low U-value glazing and making use of solar gain where possible is the best place to start. 

As a space-heating method, underfloor heating is the best choice for a kitchen conservatory extension, as it's more energy efficient, doesn't require wall space like traditional radiators and eliminates cold spots. 

While traditional conservatories must have its own heating system that can be controlled independently under Building Regs, this isn't the case for an extension. However, it's beneficial to be able to control your underfloor heating in zones, especially in a new conservatory extension. 

Choosing the right conservatory flooring idea is therefore a must say the experts.

"Picking a material such as porcelain or stone tiles," says Virginia Murray, "means it can be paired with underfloor heating to ensure the space remains comfortable throughout the year, without radiators occupying precious wall space that could be used for storage or decorative elements instead."

Lighting

"Conservatory lighting ideas play a pivotal role in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your kitchen conservatory extension," says Virginia Murray. And contrary to what you might expect, this is even more so the case "in a space blessed with an abundance of natural light. 

"Large windows and skylights should be utilised to their fullest potential, but still supplemented by a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting for the evenings or cloudy days. 

"This layered lighting approach," explains Virginia, "allows for flexibility, ensuring the space is functional and atmospheric at any time of day."

Approvals & regulations

While there are many Building Regulations for extensions and conservatory building regulations that need to be followed, one of the most relevant parts for a highly-glazed extension is the 25% rule in Part L. This sets out that no more than 25% of the new extension’s floor area may be glazing or openings - something that causes an issue for those looking to achieve a highly glazed conservatory-style extension. 

In this instance, a Building Regulations application would need to be made. It’s unlikely to be approved unless it can be proven that the new extension will meet thermal efficiency requirements - the reason for the 25% rule after all is that glazing is less thermally efficient than solid walls. 

To do this, you’ll be required to undertake SAP calculations on the proposed design. Under Part L1B of Building Regulations, a SAP calculation can be carried out on a ‘notional’ version of your proposed extension, which is capped at the 25% glazing limit, while meeting the basics of Building Regulation standard. 

A calculation is also produced for the real extension plan, and if it can be proven that the real extension won’t produce more CO2 than the notional one, the plan may be approved. This can only be achieved by over-specifying elements such as glazing and using fabric first principles such as solar gain to optimise the design. 

It’s possible to build a kitchen conservatory extension under Permitted Development rights, if the project meets certain criteria, which include factors such as the volume of floorspace compared to the existing house, the height of the extension and what material the extension is built from, among other limitations. 

If your project is not viable under Permitted Development, you'll need to make a full planning permission application. 

Cost

While a conservatory is generally considered to be cheaper than a kitchen extension costs, there is likely to be some extra expense that comes with a kitchen conservatory extension which will push prices up.  

Specialised glass can cost up to 25% more than standard glass, and may be required in order to build your extension under the 25% glazing rule. While a low-end PVCu conservatory might be achievable for as little as £5,000, the requirements of a conservatory for an open plan space will be more high-spec. You can expect to pay from £45,000 upwards for a kitchen conservatory extension, for the structure alone. 

Looking for kitchen conservatory ideas that incorporate more solid walls but retain the light and airy feel associated with a conservatory? Choosing an orangery with multiple roof lanterns is one such way. Give a stylish symmetry to the space with lanterns of matching size, or combine a small with large option to help zone your space. 

Alternatively, combining a raised roof lantern with fixed glazing in a roof gable is a great way to recreate the vernacular of a traditional conservatory. A dramatic pitched roof lantern will create all the drama required of a kitchen conservatory extension, while minimising the amount of actual glazing used, allowing the design to be more thermally efficient. 

There's no questioning the value of a good kitchen in your home. But, if your space isn't working too well, throwing a small kitchen extension idea into the mix of your home renovation plans isn't uncommon.

And, whether you use the space for more cabinets, to reconfigure the ground floor layout or simply to combine your dining and eating into one open plan design, it still needs as much consideration as any type of kitchen extension, however big or small.

The trick to getting the best result? Instead of thinking in miniature, focus on quality over quantity instead, and you'll get a small kitchen extension that's perfect in every way.

1. Use a small kitchen extension to unlock your layout

Assuming you need countless square metres to get a new layout is a common misconception when considering the best small kitchen extension idea for your home.

“Even the smallest kitchen extension can fundamentally change how the space works," confirms Richard Davonport, founder and managing director of Davonport. "This one-metre side return (as shown here) is often all that is needed to unlock a layout that simply was not possible before, whether that is introducing a kitchen island, allowing room for an eat-in table, or just creating clearer circulation so the kitchen feels calmer and easier to live with."

"What matters most at this scale is not trying to do too much," he adds, but designing very precisely around how the kitchen will be used day to day, with cabinetry, appliances and storage planned from the outset to make the most of every new centimetre."

2. Consider the connection between old and new

Depending on the style of your existing home, you'll need to think about how you connect your new small kitchen extension to the rest of your home. In terraced house extensions, for example, if you aren't adding a modern glass kitchen extension to the rear of your property, you might want to retain a sense of the traditional design elements, but with a nod to the present time.

It's demonstrated well in this project from The London Kitchen Company. A simple, slightly traditional archway connects old and new, and although the cabinets are a staple Shaker style, the colours of the modern pink walls and green kitchen cabinets are in fashion and a subtly stylish way of combining past and present.

3. Think about open shelving in smaller kitchen extensions

Small kitchen storage ideas can be challenging when you're trying to fit your culinary favourites into a limited floorplan, which is why you need to think outside of the box when choosing your kitchen design, says Sebastian Aronowitz, founder of The London Kitchen Company.

"It’s easy to fall into a trap of thinking you need more cabinetry in a small kitchen extension," he agrees, "but that could potentially overwhelm the space. Clever storage features are integral to a small extension.

"Think pull-outs and drawers to store things comfortably and so they’re easily accessible – much more so than deep cabinets where you’re forever reaching to the back to grab something," he recommends.

Open shelving vs wall cabinets is another way of adding a sense of light and space to your kitchen, without sacrificing somewhere to store your everyday cooking essentials.

Shop these open shelving units

4. Create a seamless connection between garden and home

As well as increasing your kitchen size, finding a way to bring the outdoors in is a common desire for homeowners embarking on an extension project. And, it's an approach that can make a small kitchen extension idea feel far bigger than it actually is.

Extending the full width of this property, means the extension works hard, providing cooking, living and dining spaces. Wall to wall bi-folding patio doors open the whole of the exterior to the outside, and rooflights above the dining area bring even more light in from above.

Add to this a timeless white kitchen idea and neutral colours throughout, and you've got a small kitchen extension idea with a far loftier identity.

5. Convert an existing small kitchen extension

Looking to convert an existing small kitchen extension? This project in London from Yard Architects reimagined an old space, turning it into something far more stylish and functional.

“The kitchen in the existing home simply didn’t work,” explains Simon Graham, co-founder and director. “Housed in an old side return extension, it was small, low and cut off from the rest of the house via a small flight of stairs.

“Our brief was to create a generous multi-functional family space,” says Simon, “which involved taking out the side wall of the rear reception room and reconstructing the side return, joining the two spaces together to create a kitchen dining scheme.”

Moving the kitchen into what had previously been the old reception room and lowering the floor also created a seamless space, and a huge ceiling height for the french doors.

“As the room would have been overlooked by neighbours, we also designed a series of oak louvres which sat beneath the underside of the roof,” adds Simon. “These provide privacy but also create a beautiful filtered light effect.”

6. Opt for a simple glass-topped brick extension

Using architectural glazing in your small kitchen extension ideas is a great way of flooding the area with natural light. This half glass, half brick extension idea only provides a tiny addition to the kitchen floorplan, but helps to bring light into the otherwise dark room.

North-facing kitchens are great candidates for using a serious amount of glazing, whether for a side return or rear extension idea, mainly because they don't run the risk of overheating when the sun does come out as they suffer from lower amounts of natural light than other directions.

7. Or add a full glass extension and change your zones

If on the other hand you're keen to add an extension that has only glass on its walls and roof, this won't always lend itself well to a kitchen. The lack of wall space for fitting a kitchen makes it, in general, an impractical approach.

The best solution? A a total switch in your open-plan zones. Move your kitchen to the rear of your extension and locate either your dining space or living room zone in the new glass addition.

Make sure you choose the right extension glass to avoid adding an unwanted sauna-like environment to your new, open-plan kitchen, and you should find yourself only basking in the glory of a job done well.

8. Don't neglect your kitchen ventilation – even in a small space

Simply because your small kitchen extension ideas are sized less generously, it doesn't mean you can cut corners on essential features such as kitchen extension ventilation.

You still need to ensure you have the right kitchen extractor fan in place, and if you can add natural ventilation in too, then you're on the path to success. Smells and odours, as well as moisture can quickly mount up in small spaces and need to be expelled in order to avoid problems with condensation or damp in the future.

Adding a hob to your kitchen island? Placing the extractor fan above will help dissipate any steam or smells.

Or, as an alternative to a ceiling or wall-mounted extractor, why not consider a down-draft extractor such as this Neff 80cm Downdraft Cooker Hood with Clear Glass design from John Lewis.

9. Design a small kitchen extension around a courtyard

Although many terraced properties naturally look to a side return extension, if this is the space in your home which benefits from the most sunlight, consider switching your design around, as Yard Architects did with this end of terrace Victorian house.

“Early investigations showed that the current side return was the sunniest spot on the plot, benefiting from south-westerly sunshine for most of the year – whereas the rest of the garden was partially overshadowed by high boundary walls,” explains Simon Graham.

“We subsequently decided to free this area up to become an external courtyard garden idea and the focal point of the ground floor, and instead extend to the rear of the house,” he says.

“In order to benefit from the upwards view, the kitchen roof was designed to allow views of the trees and capture the sunlight. Large plywood fins were used to provide structural support, as well as filtering light, and full height sliding glass doors to two sides of the courtyard also provide a practical flow throughout the space,” he adds. “The practical sliding window at worktop level was also included to create a servery area to the outside.”

In terms of construction, the extension itself is a timber frame extension, built using prefabricated panels that slot together inside the existing brick boundary walls. “We chose this method as it had both environmental and cost benefits,” says Simon.

10. Incorporate angled windows for interest in a small space

Small kitchen extension ideas generally involve finding clever ways to add as much natural light as possible to the heart of the home. With open-plan kitchen extensions still a popular design choice, we expect a lot from our kitchens that requires light.

Cooking, entertaining, homework, family meals, breakfast spots and socialising all take place in one space meaning it needs as much natural light as possible, as well as great small kitchen lighting ideas.

So, instead of sticking to regular rectangles or squares for the windows and doors in your small kitchen extension, embrace the angles of your roof design instead, bringing both light and architectural interest to your space.

11. Small side returns can be perfectly formed kitchens

Side returns tend to be underutilised spaces in terraced or semi-detached properties, so extending out into one is a good way to add extra room into your kitchen without losing valuable garden space.

While a side return extension may only add as little as 3 or 4 square metres to your kitchen, the effect will be transformative, providing a better layout and the possibility to add a dining area and glazing to bring in more natural light.

Extending the facade of the side return extension across the rear of the property is again, another clever idea of making the space seem larger than it actually is.

12. Ensure there is still flow around the kitchen

In a narrower space, it can be difficult to ensure there is sufficient space to move around which is why your kitchen layout ideas need to be thoroughly planned in a small kitchen extension.

While it can be easy to get carried away with images of wonderful space you see online or in magazines, "being realistic about what you can and can't achieve is one of the key factors in getting any kitchen design right, says John Place, owner and designer at PlaceDesign.

"Don't try to replicate something you have seen on instagram if the room size you're admiring differs dramatically from yours," recommends John. "I always tell clients when there is a problem fitting things in or making a small space work, you have to let the room win.

"The architecture to a degree dictates what you can and can't do and that should lead the design," says John, "which means if you are building an extension, once you have the architect's plans, get the interior space finalised before committing to the build.

"The design of the kitchen/living space may have an impact on the architecture so it is beneficial to do them in conjunction with each other. Adding a small extension may not give you the extra space you expect," he warns, "so it is always good to get the whole space thoroughly designed before the build starts.

"Once you see the interior design, you can then weigh up if the build is worth it or not," says John.

13. Extend to the rear with floor-to-ceiling glazing

If you have budget to spare but only a small space to work with, you could add impact to your small kitchen extension ideas by choosing structural glazing for two of your external walls.

Include large sliding patio doors on both sides for an alfresco dining feel and turn your new and empty side return area into a green oasis with large evergreen planted pots.

When choosing your kitchen cabinets, it's likely a fitted kitchen vs freestanding one will work better in a space like this as you'll need to maximise all the available space along the remaining solid walls

14. Keep it streamlined for easy sightlines

Although this kitchen extension is fairly generous in size, it has design aesthetics that would work equally as well in a small kitchen extension.

"In smaller kitchen extensions, we often focus on long, uninterrupted runs of cabinetry, well-proportioned islands that offer working space without overwhelming the room, and thoughtful sightlines," confirms Richard Davonport.

"Natural light becomes even more important here too," he adds, "so rooflights should be considered early in the design process, as they help the kitchen feel generous regardless of its footprint."

A simple combination of white, pale grey and light wood, combined with skylights, strong pendant kitchen island lighting and a neat built in seating bench along one wall make this a great masterclass in modern kitchen ideas.

15. Match your bricks for a seamless exterior

One approach when designing a small kitchen extension is to match materials to mitigate its visual impact on the existing house. Finding reclaimed bricks that match perfectly is difficult but can be done, while there are also options such as brick tinting that can help unify a new extension with this existing house.

This is an option that is more likely to work with a small extension than a larger kitchen extension, as the amount of materials used will be minimal, especially if the design incorporates large expanses of glazing, such as this one which has a glass section cut through the middle which means any small variations in finish will be less noticeable.

16. Consider a small orangery or conservatory

When extending a small kitchen to add a dining or living space, an orangery or conservatory is an idea to explore that will bring plenty of natural light into your home.

However, a conservatory should be carefully specified and positioned to ensure your space doesn't overheat in summer or leak too much heat during the winter months.

This design from Vale Garden Houses helps to provide the homeowners with valuable extra kitchen storage, a kitchen-diner like space and a far closer connection with the garden outside.

Our experts final advice for small kitchen extension ideas?

"In small kitchens, whether they include an extension or not it is always important to boil it down to the priorities," says John Place. "Why are you doing the work? What do you hope to achieve? It isn't always the same and every client I see is different," he says.

"For example a family with young children may prioritise being able to see them while they are in the kitchen and so the dining table is positioned close by. Another client may want a bar area as a priority. Understanding needs and prioritising which ones are the most important will then enable us to look at the space available and see just how hard we can make it work."

Not being put off by the physical size is also key, adds Sebastian Aronowitz. "A small kitchen extension still provides you with the opportunity to reconfigure the layout of the kitchen and incorporate features that you’d otherwise not be able to include.

It might be simply that you’d like a wider fridge and some additional worktop space, or it could be that you’d like an area with more natural light to prepare food. Planning in advance how you’ll use the additional square metres, will always help you create the most impactful space," he says.

This will also include choosing the right kitchen appliances you'll need to make your kitchen function. However, with these taking up a considerable amount of space, you'll need to buy well. Do your research by checking out our guide to the best appliances for small kitchens.

The way in which oak frame kitchen extension ideas can transform a house is amazing. As well as adding extra space, this type of extension has the power to give a house loads of visual warmth and an elegant touch that it can be hard to achieve with other styles of extension. 

Whether you are building an extension to add space to a traditional farmhouse or a plain post-war semi detached property, an oak frame kitchen extension can be tailored to work. 

Although they carry their own challenges, oak frame kitchen extensions also come with so many benefits. With this in mind, settle down and get planning your own new extension with these beautiful ideas that will turn a building project into a dream home in no time at all. 

How to plan oak frame kitchen extension ideas 

Oak frame extensions are most often chosen for their unique ability to add space, character and warmth to a really wide range of house styles, from period buildings to more contemporary homes.

When it comes to using an extension to house a new kitchen, or to open up an existing space to perhaps form a kitchen diner with more of a connection to the garden, careful thought is needed to get the design spot on. 

"Before briefing your kitchen extension designer its really important to consider what the space is going to be used for," explains Paul Edmunds, director at Welsh Oak Frame. "Some people want a kitchen area along with a dining and/or lounge area. Do you want things such as an kitchen island? Or a large larder unit? All these things need to be considered at the design stages of the actual space and an experienced designer will design the oak frame to suit these needs. It’s important for a designer to consider the roof height and where trusses and posts will go so they allow for things like non standard units."

1. Create a light-filled open plan kitchen

Oak frame extension ideas are perfect for anyone who wants to add a light, spacious open plan extension to their home. 

"An oak frame is designed in bays and people can utilise this to create zones – so the kitchen area, dining area and lounge area," explains Paul Edmunds. "Because everything we do is bespoke, we can accommodate large spans so oak posts aren’t in the way. We have seen on numerous occasions some oak frames designed by others where a post ends up in front of a cupboard."

In this beautiful project by Welsh Oak Frame the frame works brilliantly to help differentiate between the cooking, dining and living areas of the space as a whole.

2. Allow the oak frame to be the star of the show

When it comes to oak frame extensions it really does make sense to let the oak frame itself take centre stage. In order to do this it is a good ideas to choose a pared-back colour scheme and ensure your kitchen lighting ideas really highlights its character.  

While an extension is a chance to express your personality – especially in a room so frequently used as a kitchen – don't throw too many styles and ideas at it until the space no longer makes sense. 

This kitchen follows a stylish yet subtle décor scheme, with classic Shaker units and a simple navy and white colourway.

3. Consider a kitchen island to maximise storage

If your extension is going to include large expanses of glass, perhaps in the form of sliding or bifold doors, or even just lots of full-height fixed glazing, you are going to need to think through where your kitchen units will sit.

"Its important to think about where the doors leading to the outside will be – you don’t want doors (and potentially windows) in the zone where the kitchen is as this will take up valuable wall space and the flow of the room will be wrong," points out Paul Edmunds.

Take time to explore kitchen island ideas as this can be a great way to pack in extra storage space, as well as providing somewhere to house appliances. This large central island enjoys wonderful garden views. 

4. Respect an old building with your extension 

Believe it or not, this 16th century home has actually been sensitively extended with an oak frame to create a new modern kitchen with an expanse of timber bifold doors. Extra care was taken by Living Oak to ensure the proportions of the extension suited the period property. 

Inside the extension is a fresh, open plan kitchen which houses the main family space and living area. The French oak frame has been used to zone the different areas, while bringing a certain charm to the contemporary-styled room.

5. Explore contemporary oak frame designs

Where oak frame homes and extensions were once often perhaps thought of as something only owners of traditional or period style homes could consider, this is most definitely not still the case. 

Oak frame interiors in particular have really benefitted from more recent developments, with the advent of structural infill panels enabling vaulted ceilings and large expanses of glazing to become part and parcel of oak frame extensions.  

This Oakwrights project is a great example of how well a simple oak frame can work in a contemporary setting. 

5. Plan your kitchen lighting scheme carefully

Combining practical recessed spotlights, show-stopping pendants and atmospheric LED strips will never fail to finish off an oak framed kitchen beautifully — as this project goes to show. 

Make the most of a new kitchen by getting the lighting design exactly how you want it and showcase the oak structure by illuminating it properly.

Arrange your lighting in layers, mixing up ambient lighting, accent lighting and task lighting. Accent lighting in particular can really help draw attention to your oak frame – adjustable spotlights can work really well here. 

7. Use a traditional-style oak frame for a farmhouse feel

If it's farmhouse kitchen ideas you are seeking then an oak frame extension is going to work so well for you. Instantly adding a wealth of character, oak beams paired with an exposed oak frame help the space look as though it has always been there and they sit alongside other farmhouse kitchen stables, such as AGAs, flagstone floors and Shaker-style units so well. 

This cosy kitchen looks to all the world as though it has always been there and was inspired by a traditional farmhouse style and flawlessly pulls it off. 

8. Choose a kitchen to contrast with the frame

Sometimes some of the most beautiful and striking schemes come about as a result of using materials or styles that sit in direct contrast to one another. This is often the thinking of those adding modern extension ideas to traditional buildings.

This approach can also work well in oak frame extensions. The natural and sometimes rustic look of the timber can really be brought out by pairing it with sleek, minimalist kitchen units and features.

In this Welsh Oak Frame extension, a super stylish kitchen, finished in a walnut veneer, manages to both contrast with the oak frame at the same time as reflecting elements of it.

9. Work around the frame with a freestanding kitchen 

When dealing with an oak frame kitchen extension – and in particular an open plan space – it can pay to blend fitted kitchen units with some freestanding kitchen ideas, such as large dressers, so that the space doesn't begin to feel too enclosed. 

"The kitchen needs to be designed around the room, not the other way around," advises Paul Edmunds. "A kitchen designer needs to take into account window heights, where doors are, where trusses and posts are. This is especially the case where kitchens are modular rather than being bespoke."

Here, the combination of fitted and freestanding kitchen units ensures no space is wasted.

10. Even a single truss can work well

It is important to bear in mind that there really is nothing in the rule book to say that you have to have an expanse of timber framing exposed to enjoy the character that an oak frame can bring.

"With the kitchen being the hub of the home, incorporating an oak frame adds real wow factor in an area where friends and family gather," says Paul Edmunds. "You don’t have to have an all singing, all dancing oak frame – a truss or two can create a huge impact."

This sleek and striking kitchen diner design works so well with a single exposed timber element, thanks to the pairing with wooden wall cladding and minimalist décor.

11. Tie in a kitchen extension with the existing house

In some cases, it will be required by planning that a new extension matches the building it is being added to. Of course, in many cases, it might just look visually better to do this regardless of the views of the planners.

This beautiful extension, by Oakwrights, was added to a 17th century limestone cottage in the Peak District National Park so a sensitive approach was needed. Externally the use of local natural materials ensures the extension blends in with its surroundings, while internally the exposed king trusses and large panes of face glazing bring the space to life. 

FAQs

Are oak frame kitchen extensions expensive?

In terms of kitchen extension costs, oak frame is certainly not the cheapest option, but it is not necessarily as expensive as many people think either. Realistically, you should budget between £2,500/m2 - £3,000/m2 but there are ways to keep costs down. 

These include opting for softwood roof rafters rather than oak, reducing the amount of glazing in your extension and taking on any elements you can on a DIY basis.

Will I need planning permission for an oak frame kitchen extension?

The laws surrounding planning permission for oak frame extensions are just the same as for any other type of planning permission for extensions. 

Small oak frame extensions may well fall within your permitted development rights, but this is not guaranteed so it is always best to check with your local planning department before breaking ground. 

Oak frame kitchen extensions come with loads of benefits but they are not always right or suitable for everyone. 

If you are after a way of adding space and pulling in extra natural light to your home, why not consider exploring glass kitchen extensions instead? Allowing for undisturbed garden views, available in all kinds of designs and sizes and the perfect way to add to a house without detracting too much from the style of the original building, this could just be the right route for you. 

Penny and Douglas moved into their house in the West Midlands in 2002, and over the next decade, conducted a series of alterations to improve their living space.

By 2012 they had turned the garage into a home office, utility and WC; reorganised the first floor space to provide an en suite to the master bedroom; then converted the loft to make room for a double bedroom with en suite shower room.

By this point, they decided the house looked a little top heavy, and chose to redesign and extend their small, dark kitchen. The changes to the rear of the house would make way for an open plan kitchen, dining and living space with access to the garden.

The Brief

A neighbour had recently transformed their home with a new extension featuring large expanses of glazing. This influenced the Dawsons’s own brief to their architect. The priorities were a panoramic view of the garden, the possibility for a bespoke design, durability, thermal efficiency and a fixed timescale.

Design

As a result of their input, the architect designed a scheme which would convert the old rear reception room, kitchen, and a newly built extension into one large, open plan area. This has been cleverly zoned into distinct areas, split by differing ceiling heights and arrangement of the furniture.

Most of the rear elevation is glazed with Origin bi-fold doors, separated and supported by a narrow brick column. By opening out onto the garden with a level floor finish, it extends the living space outside, creating the perfect party set-up.

The area contrasts well with the fairly traditional style of the entrance hall and the family have retained a separate dining area and study to the front of the house. These provide quieter places to relax away from the hub of the home.

The Build

The extension did not require planning permission as the alterations fell within Permitted Development. The rest of the project was fittingly straightforward.

The new foundations for the external wall were located over the existing drains. This meant the Dawsons had to have piled foundations which added £4,000 to their costs. Budget-wise, they feel they could have made savings on the home automation and by having a flat roof instead of a pitched one — however, these are features which add to the feel of the space and make it a pleasure to live in.

This is a project that has been built for luxury. Underfloor heating has been used throughout the kitchen and living areas which have been finished with engineered Morado wood flooring. Polished granite and walnut worktops add variety to the sleek look. They have also splashed out on a Sonos wireless multi-room audio system, automated lighting and an instant boiling water tap.