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 Shirley?
In Shirley, a kitchen extension typically costs £2,200–£3,300 per m² including a mid-range kitchen, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 22 m² project that is roughly £48,500–£72,500. Prices in the West Midlands sit near the national average for this kind of work, and the range for Shirley reflects that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (15 m²) | £33,000–£49,500 |
| Typical project (22 m²) | £48,500–£72,500 |
| Larger project (31 m²) | £68,000–£102,500 |
| Rate per m² | £2,200–£3,300 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Extension size and roof design
- Island with sink or hob, which needs services in the floor
- Kitchen units, worktops and appliances
- Who supplies the kitchen
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 Shirley?
Here is how the rules work for a kitchen extension 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
What we take care of:
- Kitchen fitting, worktops and splashbacks
- Extension structure, roof and glazing
- Drainage and water supply positioned for the sink and appliances
- Flooring and decoration
- Electrics, lighting plan and sockets
- Building control sign-off
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 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 Shirley
The West Midlands has large numbers of 1930s semis and Victorian terraces, which suit rear extensions, side extensions and dormer loft conversions.
We work across Shirley and neighbouring areas such as Solihull, Birmingham and Smethwick. Postcodes we cover in Shirley include B90.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 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
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about kitchen extensions in Shirley
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.
How much does a kitchen extension cost in Shirley?
In Shirley, a kitchen extension typically costs £2,200–£3,300 per m² including a mid-range kitchen, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 22 m² project comes to roughly £48,500–£72,500. 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.
Do you build kitchen extensions in Shirley?
Yes. We build kitchen extensions across Shirley, including postcodes B90. Every project starts with a free home visit.
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.
