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 St Albans?
In St Albans, 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 St Albans 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 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Glazing and roof lanterns
- Island with sink or hob, which needs services in the floor
- Underfloor heating and flooring
- Extension size and roof design
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 St Albans?
Before anything is built in St Albans, 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.
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:
- Extension structure, roof and glazing
- Drainage and water supply positioned for the sink and appliances
- Extraction ducted to outside
- Building control sign-off
- Electrics, lighting plan and sockets
- Kitchen layout planned alongside the extension design
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 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 St Albans
Across the East of England, 1930s and post-war semis, newer estates and rural cottages all feature, each with different extension and loft options.
From AL1 outwards, we take on projects throughout St Albans and the surrounding parts of Hertfordshire.
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
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about kitchen extensions in St Albans
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.
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 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 long does a kitchen extension take in St Albans?
Typically 11 to 16 weeks on site, including kitchen fitting. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 6 to 12 weeks.
How much does a kitchen extension cost in St Albans?
In St Albans, 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.