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 Bishops Stortford?
In Bishops Stortford, a kitchen extension typically costs £2,400–£3,600 per m² including a mid-range kitchen, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 22 m² project that is roughly £53,000–£79,000. We start from a UK-wide guide and adjust it for the East of England, where labour and materials are typically about 6% above average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (15 m²) | £36,000–£54,000 |
| Typical project (22 m²) | £53,000–£79,000 |
| Larger project (31 m²) | £74,500–£111,500 |
| Rate per m² | £2,400–£3,600 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Island with sink or hob, which needs services in the floor
- Kitchen units, worktops and appliances
- Glazing and roof lanterns
- Underfloor heating and flooring
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 Bishops Stortford?
Approvals for a kitchen extension in Bishops Stortford follow the rules for England. In England a single-storey rear extension is often permitted development: broadly up to 3 metres deep on a semi-detached or terraced house and 4 metres on a detached house, no higher than 4 metres, with eaves no higher than 3 metres within 2 metres of a boundary, and covering no more than half the garden. The larger home extension scheme allows up to 6 or 8 metres if you notify the council first and neighbours have a chance to comment. In conservation areas, National Parks and National Landscapes the larger home extension route, side extensions and cladding are not permitted development. Flats and houses whose rights have been removed need a planning application, and listed buildings need listed building consent.
Building regulations approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver. The work is inspected at key stages, such as foundations, drainage and insulation, and a completion certificate is issued at the end.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Drainage and water supply positioned for the sink and appliances
- Kitchen fitting, worktops and splashbacks
- Building control sign-off
- Kitchen layout planned alongside the extension design
- Extraction ducted to outside
- Flooring and decoration
How long does it take?
Allow 11 to 16 weeks on site, including kitchen fitting. Design and approvals come first and typically take 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the approval route.
Building in Bishops Stortford
Across the East of England, 1930s and post-war semis, newer estates and rural cottages all feature, each with different extension and loft options.
If your home is in Bishops Stortford or close by in Harlow, Hoddesdon and Hertford, a free home visit is the first step.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 02
Design and fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed specification.
- 03
Permissions sorted
Applications, building control and neighbour arrangements, all before the start date.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about kitchen extensions in Bishops Stortford
Can I buy my own kitchen?
Yes. You can supply it and we fit it, or we supply it as part of the price. Either way we coordinate deliveries with the build programme.
How much does a kitchen extension cost in Bishops Stortford?
In Bishops Stortford, a kitchen extension typically costs £2,400–£3,600 per m² including a mid-range kitchen, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 22 m² project comes to roughly £53,000–£79,000. 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.
Who approves a kitchen extension in Bishops Stortford?
Planning matters in Bishops Stortford go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
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.
