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 Carrickfergus?
In Carrickfergus, 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. Prices across Northern Ireland are typically 14% below the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Carrickfergus. 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 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Glazing and roof lanterns
- Island with sink or hob, which needs services in the floor
- Kitchen units, worktops and appliances
- 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 Carrickfergus?
Here is how the rules work for a kitchen extension 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.
In Northern Ireland building control approval comes from the council, usually through a full plans application or a building notice, with inspections during the work and a completion certificate 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:
- Building control sign-off
- Kitchen fitting, worktops and splashbacks
- Kitchen layout planned alongside the extension design
- Electrics, lighting plan and sockets
- Flooring and decoration
- Extraction ducted to outside
How long does it take?
Expect 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 Carrickfergus
Northern Ireland has many detached and semi-detached homes on generous plots, which suits single-storey rear extensions and garage conversions.
If your home is in Carrickfergus or close by in Newtownabbey, Bangor and Larne, a free home visit is the first step.
How it works
- 01
Free visit
We look at the property, talk through what you want and measure up. There is no charge and no obligation.
- 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
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about kitchen extensions in Carrickfergus
Do I need planning permission for a kitchen extension in Carrickfergus?
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.
How much does a kitchen extension cost in Carrickfergus?
In Carrickfergus, 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.
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.
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.
Who approves a kitchen extension in Carrickfergus?
Planning matters in Carrickfergus go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
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.
