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 Bristol?
In Bristol, a kitchen extension typically costs £2,300–£3,450 per m² including a mid-range kitchen, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 22 m² project that is roughly £50,500–£76,000. Building costs in the South West are close to the UK average, so the figures for Bristol are close to our national guide. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (15 m²) | £34,500–£52,000 |
| Typical project (22 m²) | £50,500–£76,000 |
| Larger project (31 m²) | £71,500–£107,000 |
| Rate per m² | £2,300–£3,450 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Who supplies the kitchen
- Island with sink or hob, which needs services in the floor
- Kitchen units, worktops and appliances
- Underfloor heating and flooring
Your exact price depends on the survey and drawings. The guide price tool gives a quick range in the meantime.
Do you need planning permission for a kitchen extension in Bristol?
Approvals for a kitchen extension in Bristol 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.
Where work involves a shared wall, building on the boundary, or digging foundations within 3 metres of a neighbour’s building and deeper than its foundations (or within 6 metres for deeper work), the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies and notices must be served before work starts.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Electrics, lighting plan and sockets
- Kitchen layout planned alongside the extension design
- Drainage and water supply positioned for the sink and appliances
- Kitchen fitting, worktops and splashbacks
- Flooring and decoration
- Building control sign-off
How long does it take?
Expect 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 Bristol
In parts of the South West, protected landscapes and conservation areas shape what can be built, so materials and roof forms are chosen carefully.
We cover the whole of Bristol.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about kitchen extensions in Bristol
How long will I be without a kitchen?
Usually 3 to 6 weeks at the end of the job, once the back wall is opened and the new kitchen goes in. We can help set up a temporary kitchen.
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 Bristol?
Planning matters in Bristol go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
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.
How much does a kitchen extension cost in Bristol?
In Bristol, a kitchen extension typically costs £2,300–£3,450 per m² including a mid-range kitchen, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 22 m² project comes to roughly £50,500–£76,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
