How to Plan Your Kitchen Extension

Plan Your Dream Kitchen Extension

It is important to spend adequate time planning your new kitchen. Think about what you need from the space. 

• Is entertaining a priority? 
• How do you envisage your kitchen looking? 
• Decide what features you want, such as a range cooker or a kitchen island.

Look at your current kitchen and decide where you can make improvements. Features like roof lights and bi-fold doors can all add aesthetic appeal and make the room more functional, but it’s best to plan for them rather than add them at a later stage. As any fan of Grand Designs knows, changing the design halfway through the project adds additional stress and cost to the budget!

How Much Will It Cost?

Naturally, the cost is very important. Most people have a set budget in mind, dictated by the amount of money they can reasonably afford to borrow or the savings they have. 

Costs will vary according to various factors, including the size of the extension, where you live, and the specifications you want. Always obtain several quotes for the work, so you can get a good idea of how much your new kitchen extension will cost.

It’s sensible to have a 10% contingency fund in place, to cover any unexpected expenses that may arise. 

Choose an Architect

An architect’s job is to draw up plans for your new kitchen extension, based on your requirements. They can advise you whether what you want is feasible, work with you on a budget, and even project manage the job for you if required. 

Contact three or four architects from your shortlist and ask them to visit the site and submit plans. It’s important to work with someone who can translate your vision into a reality. 

The good news is that Simply Easy Refurbs will recommend an architect after going through your initial ideas, which helps to streamline the process. 

Building Regulations and Planning Permissions

Some building work falls under Permitted Development, which means obtaining Planning Permission is not necessary. The government Planning Portal has plenty of guidance, but it is best to obtain expert advice. Your architect will be able to help you in this area.

Bear in mind that even if planning permission is not needed for a kitchen extension, the work must still be approved by the local Building Control Officer to make sure it is safe. If planning permission is needed, plans must be submitted, which is something your architect can do on your behalf. 

Why Choose Simply Easy Refurbs for Your Extension

Working with an architect and several different contractors can be tricky and most people don’t have any project management experience. 

When you choose Simply Easy Refurbs to build your kitchen extension, you can relax. We work with a trusted network of local tradespeople, including electricians, joiners, and plumbers. We will manage the project from start to finish, so the final result is a kitchen extension you can be proud of. 

Whether you are considering a new kitchen extension or a loft conversion, Simply Easy Refurbs can help. Give us a call today!