What is a kitchen extension?

A kitchen extension is an extension designed around a new kitchen, usually an open-plan kitchen, dining and family space at the back of the house. We build the extension and fit the kitchen as one project, so plumbing, electrics and lighting are planned around the layout from the start.
How much does a kitchen extension cost in Ballymena?
In Ballymena, a kitchen extension typically costs £1,950–£2,900 per m² including a mid-range kitchen, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 22 m² project that is roughly £43,000–£64,000. We start from a UK-wide guide and adjust it for Northern Ireland, where labour and materials are typically about 14% below average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (15 m²) | £29,000–£43,500 |
| Typical project (22 m²) | £43,000–£64,000 |
| Larger project (31 m²) | £60,500–£90,000 |
| Rate per m² | £1,950–£2,900 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Extension size and roof design
- Underfloor heating and flooring
- Who supplies the kitchen
- Glazing and roof lanterns
For a figure based on your own measurements, try the guide price tool, then book a free home visit for a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a kitchen extension in Ballymena?
The approval route for Ballymena is set by planning law in Northern Ireland. In Northern Ireland the Planning (General Permitted Development) Order (Northern Ireland) 2015 allows single-storey rear extensions of up to 3 metres on attached houses and 4 metres on detached houses, no higher than 4 metres, with eaves no higher than 3 metres within 2 metres of a boundary. Houses with removed rights need planning permission, listed buildings need consent, and in conservation areas extensions must stay single-storey and must not come forward of the front or side walls.
Northern Ireland has no Party Wall Act. Work on shared walls relies on agreement with the neighbour and common law, so we agree the arrangements in writing before work starts.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
On a typical kitchen extension we handle:
- Building control sign-off
- Extension structure, roof and glazing
- Drainage and water supply positioned for the sink and appliances
- Kitchen layout planned alongside the extension design
- Kitchen fitting, worktops and splashbacks
- Flooring and decoration
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 11 to 16 weeks on site, including kitchen fitting. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 6 to 12 weeks, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in Ballymena
Northern Ireland has many detached and semi-detached homes on generous plots, which suits single-storey rear extensions and garage conversions.
Projects in Ballymena (BT42, BT43 and BT44) are surveyed in person before we quote, so the price reflects your actual property.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Design and pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and specification.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Build and handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about kitchen extensions in Ballymena
How much does a kitchen extension cost in Ballymena?
In Ballymena, a kitchen extension typically costs £1,950–£2,900 per m² including a mid-range kitchen, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 22 m² project comes to roughly £43,000–£64,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Is underfloor heating worth it?
In a large open-plan space it frees wall space for units and glazing and gives even heat. It is easiest to fit during the build.
Do I need planning permission for a kitchen extension in Ballymena?
In Northern Ireland the Planning (General Permitted Development) Order (Northern Ireland) 2015 allows single-storey rear extensions of up to 3 metres on attached houses and 4 metres on detached houses, no higher than 4 metres, with eaves no higher than 3 metres within 2 metres of a boundary. Houses with removed rights need planning permission, listed buildings need consent, and in conservation areas extensions must stay single-storey and must not come forward of the front or side walls.
Do I need extraction to outside?
Building regulations require kitchen extract ventilation. Ducting to an outside wall is the most effective option and is planned during the build.
Should the kitchen be designed before the extension?
Yes. Knowing where the sink, hob and island will go lets us place drains, ducting, sockets and windows correctly during the build.
How long does a kitchen extension take in Ballymena?
Typically 11 to 16 weeks on site, including kitchen fitting. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 6 to 12 weeks.
