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 Lower Earley?
In Lower Earley, a kitchen extension typically costs £2,500–£3,800 per m² including a mid-range kitchen, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 22 m² project that is roughly £55,000–£83,500. The guide for Lower Earley reflects typical costs in the South East, roughly 12% above the UK-wide figure. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (15 m²) | £37,500–£57,000 |
| Typical project (22 m²) | £55,000–£83,500 |
| Larger project (31 m²) | £77,500–£118,000 |
| Rate per m² | £2,500–£3,800 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Who supplies the kitchen
- Underfloor heating and flooring
- Kitchen units, worktops and appliances
- Island with sink or hob, which needs services in the floor
Use the guide price tool to see how size and specification change the figure, then ask for a written, itemised quote.
Do you need planning permission for a kitchen extension in Lower Earley?
Before anything is built in Lower Earley, 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.
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
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Electrics, lighting plan and sockets
- Flooring and decoration
- Drainage and water supply positioned for the sink and appliances
- Kitchen fitting, worktops and splashbacks
- Extension structure, roof and glazing
- Kitchen layout planned alongside the extension design
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 Lower Earley
The South East has a broad mix of housing, from Victorian terraces in the towns to post-war semis and newer estates, so extension types vary street by street.
We work across Lower Earley and neighbouring areas such as Reading, Wokingham and Crowthorne. Postcodes we cover in Lower Earley include RG6 and RG41.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 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 Lower Earley
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 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.
Do you build kitchen extensions in Lower Earley?
Yes. We build kitchen extensions across Lower Earley, including postcodes RG6 and RG41. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How much does a kitchen extension cost in Lower Earley?
In Lower Earley, a kitchen extension typically costs £2,500–£3,800 per m² including a mid-range kitchen, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 22 m² project comes to roughly £55,000–£83,500. 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.
