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 Harwich?
In Harwich, 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. Building costs in the East of England run about 6% above the UK average, and the figures for Harwich are adjusted to reflect that. 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 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Who supplies the kitchen
- Glazing and roof lanterns
- Extension size and roof design
- Kitchen units, worktops and appliances
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 Harwich?
Before anything is built in Harwich, we confirm which approvals apply in 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.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Kitchen layout planned alongside the extension design
- Electrics, lighting plan and sockets
- Flooring and decoration
- Building control sign-off
- Extension structure, roof and glazing
- Extraction ducted to outside
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 Harwich
Across the East of England, 1930s and post-war semis, newer estates and rural cottages all feature, each with different extension and loft options.
Our Harwich coverage includes postcode districts CO12, and we also work in nearby places such as Felixstowe, Ipswich and Clacton-on-Sea.
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
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
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about kitchen extensions in Harwich
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 does a kitchen extension take in Harwich?
Typically 11 to 16 weeks on site, including kitchen fitting. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 6 to 12 weeks.
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 Harwich?
In Harwich, 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.
Will I need planning permission?
The same rules apply as for any extension. Many single-storey kitchen extensions are permitted development; larger or wraparound designs need an application.
