What is a wraparound extension?
A wraparound extension combines a side return and a rear extension into one L-shaped addition. It gives the largest possible ground floor, often creating an open-plan kitchen, dining and living space across the whole width of the house.
How much does a wraparound extension cost in Kirkwall?
In Kirkwall, a wraparound extension typically costs £2,150–£3,100 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 28 m² project that is roughly £60,000–£87,000. Island and remote projects usually cost more than this guide because of shipping, travel and accommodation. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (20 m²) | £43,000–£62,000 |
| Typical project (28 m²) | £60,000–£87,000 |
| Larger project (39 m²) | £84,000–£121,000 |
| Rate per m² | £2,150–£3,100 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Total footprint and the amount of glazing
- Access for materials on terraced streets
- Drainage changes
- Kitchen and flooring specification
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 wraparound extension in Kirkwall?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location in Scotland. In Scotland a wraparound extension normally needs planning permission and a building warrant.
In Scotland a building warrant is needed before work starts on most extensions, loft conversions and conversions. It is issued by the council’s building standards service. When the work is finished, a completion certificate is submitted and accepted by the council after inspection.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
Handled as part of most wraparound extensions:
- Walls, roof and glazing
- Underfloor heating option, electrics and plastering
- Written agreement with neighbours on shared walls
- Removal of internal and external walls
- Structural engineer’s design for steels and supports
- Building control completion
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 12 to 18 weeks on site. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 3 to 4 months, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in Kirkwall
Scotland’s housing ranges from sandstone tenements and villas to post-war and modern estates, and the building warrant system shapes how projects are planned.
Projects in Kirkwall are taken on by arrangement. We confirm availability first, and shipping, travel and accommodation costs are shown separately in the quote.
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
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 wraparound extensions in Kirkwall
Can we keep a separate living room?
Yes. Many clients keep the front room separate and open up only the back of the house.
Do I need planning permission for a wraparound extension in Kirkwall?
In Scotland a wraparound extension normally needs planning permission and a building warrant.
Is a wraparound worth it?
It gives the biggest ground-floor space without going upwards. Whether it adds value depends on your street and house, so we suggest checking local sale prices before committing.
Who approves a wraparound extension in Kirkwall?
Planning matters in Kirkwall go to the council covering your address, and the work needs a building warrant. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
What about the old back addition?
The side wall of the back addition is usually removed and replaced with a steel beam, so the old kitchen joins the new space.
How much does a wraparound extension cost in Kirkwall?
In Kirkwall, a wraparound extension typically costs £2,150–£3,100 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 28 m² project comes to roughly £60,000–£87,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.