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 Derry?
In Derry, 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. Building costs in Northern Ireland run about 14% below the UK average, and the figures for Derry are adjusted to reflect that. 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:
- Underfloor heating and flooring
- Extension size and roof design
- Kitchen units, worktops and appliances
- Glazing and roof lanterns
A guide range is only a starting point: the guide price tool gives an instant figure for your size, and a free survey turns it into a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a kitchen extension in Derry?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location 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.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
Handled as part of most kitchen extensions:
- Extraction ducted to outside
- Building control sign-off
- Electrics, lighting plan and sockets
- Flooring and decoration
- Extension structure, roof and glazing
- Drainage and water supply positioned for the sink and appliances
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 11 to 16 weeks on site, including kitchen fitting. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 6 to 12 weeks.
Building in Derry
Northern Ireland has many detached and semi-detached homes on generous plots, which suits single-storey rear extensions and garage conversions.
Our Derry coverage includes postcode districts BT47, and we also work in nearby places such as Strabane, Limavady and Coleraine.
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 Derry
Who approves a kitchen extension in Derry?
Planning matters in Derry 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 planning permission for a kitchen extension in Derry?
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.
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 much does a kitchen extension cost in Derry?
In Derry, 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.
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.
