A kitchen extension is a way to enlarge the existing kitchen space in a home. It involves adding square footage to the area by extending outwards from the current structure, often into a garden. Kitchen extensions can vary in size and complexity, depending on the homeowner’s needs and the available space.
Construction of a Kitchen Extension
Building a kitchen extension will require compliance with building regulations and obtaining necessary permits. Then there will be structural work, which would include:
Foundation Work
Foundation work in building construction refers to the construction of the base or substructure that supports a building’s load and transfers it to the ground. The foundation is crucial for ensuring the stability, durability, and safety of a structure.
Framing
Establishes the shape and support structure of the building, including internal walls, floors, and the roof structure.
Roofing
Roofing encompasses the installation of the roof structure and covering to provide weather protection and insulation for the building. This includes installing roof trusses or rafters (the structural framework of the roof), sheathing (the base layer on top of the trusses), and then the roof covering material (such as tiles, slates, or metal sheets). Roofing also involves ensuring proper insulation and ventilation to regulate temperature and moisture levels within the building.
Finishing
Once the building’s structure and roof are in place and weatherproof, finishing work begins. Finishing involves all the tasks required to complete the interior and exterior of the building to make it functional, aesthetically pleasing, and ready for occupation. This includes:
Internal finishing: Installing internal walls (plasterboarding, plastering), fitting doors and windows, laying flooring (e.g., carpet, laminate, or tiles), and installing fixtures such as kitchen units and bathroom fittings.
External finishing: Applying external cladding or rendering, painting or applying weatherproof coatings, and landscaping around the building (if applicable).
Key Points for Kitchen Extensions
Here are some key points to think about when considering a kitchen extension:
Purpose of a Kitchen Extension
The primary purpose of a kitchen extension is to increase its size and functionality, provide more cooking, dining, and storage space, and incorporate additional features like an island or breakfast bar. Before diving in, consider what you want to achieve with your kitchen extension—why do you want to expand?
If you need help convincing your spouse, you can find many reasons why developing your kitchen is a good idea at the bottom of the page.
Location of Your Kitchen Extension
Extensions are built outward from the existing kitchen area, often utilising the front or back garden or taking a path from the side of the house. Start considering the outdoor area and think about the space you wouldn’t want to miss. Perhaps it’s a bad idea to build on the side path because you need access between the front and back gardens. Ask everyone in the house and watch how people use the space.
Design of the Extension
Kitchen extensions are designed to integrate seamlessly with the home’s architecture and design. H&OB Building works closely with a couple of local architects if one is needed for their project. An extension should complement the overall look and feel of the house while enhancing the kitchen. For example, around Oxfordshire, we often use a particular stone depending on the house’s location.
Cost
It is crucial to plan your budget carefully and determine the amount you want to spend. The cost of a kitchen extension can vary significantly depending on various factors such as the size, location, materials, and labour costs. H & OB Building is delighted to offer quotes for kitchen extensions in the Oxfordshire region.
Disruption
While we make every effort to minimise disruptions, some level of inconvenience is unavoidable. Consider scheduling the work during a less busy time for the household. It’s important to keep in mind that if you want the extension to be completed in time for Christmas, for example, it’s best to start the project early in the year.
Reasons for a Kitchen Extension
… to Help Convince Your Partner
Are you the chef in the house? Or perhaps you’re the entertainer (you’ll always find me in the kitchen at parties). You know you need that kitchen extension, but you’re having trouble convincing your partner. Here are our reasons for a kitchen extension.
Expanding your kitchen can offer several practical and lifestyle benefits. Here are some pretty good reasons people extend their kitchens.
Increased Space
The primary reason for expanding a kitchen is to gain more space, which allows for better movement and flow while cooking and preparing meals. If you are the cooking-type, we wouldn’t recommend making the kitchen too vast – there is a lot to be said for finding everything you need close at hand.
However, that extra space can be incredibly useful if you are an entertainer and always find your guests in the kitchen.
Entertain Guests
Do you love a party? A larger kitchen with an open layout is ideal for entertaining guests. It provides more room for socialising and makes hosting gatherings more enjoyable. Expanding your kitchen can transform it into a more practical, efficient, and inviting space that enhances daily living and the odd party.
Improved Storage
Of course, a kitchen extension means you could include more storage space. You may live far from the supermarket or simply hate shopping, so you want that extra storage. Add more cabinets, drawers, a pantry, or built-in shelving to reduce clutter and keep kitchen essentials organised and easily accessible.
Increase Home Value
One of the most effective ways to add value to a home is through a kitchen extension. A larger, well-appointed kitchen is desirable for homebuyers and can contribute to a higher value. When planning, make sure not to take too much away from the garden area. It is important to be mindful of how much space is being utilised and to ensure that the garden remains sizeable.
Accommodate Growing Families
As families grow and their needs change, their kitchen space may no longer be sufficient. Expanding the kitchen can accommodate a growing family and create a more comfortable environment for daily activities such as eating, working, and studying.
Better Lighting and Ventilation
A well-designed extension can bring in more natural light and fresh air, creating a brighter and more pleasant work environment. This can also contribute to energy efficiency by reducing the need for artificial lighting and ventilation. With proper planning and execution, a kitchen extension can increase the functionality of your space and enhance its aesthetic appeal.
A Customised Kitchen
We love customisation! When you expand your kitchen, you can design it according to your lifestyle and your preferences. You can choose materials, colours, and layouts that reflect your taste and the family’s needs.
Kitchen Extension Ideas
Open-Plan Layout
An open-plan layout allows for a seamless connection between the kitchen and other living spaces, such as a dining area or a family room. An open-plan area creates a sense of spaciousness and encourages interaction among family members and guests, making it a more sociable space. Architectural elements such as archways or half walls can be used to define different zones within the open-plan area.
Create a Kitchen-Diner
Design an extension that connects indoor spaces; feature a dining area or breakfast bar for joint meal preparation and casual or elegant dining. Large windows or bi-fold doors can connect the indoor kitchen space with outdoor areas for summer barbecues.
Focus on Natural Light
Skylights or roof windows bring in natural light, and large glass doors or windows maximise views to create a bright and inviting extended kitchen.
Blend with Existing Architecture
It’s important to select materials and finishes that match your home’s style. We can collaborate with your architect or designer to ensure that the extension blends in with the overall design and layout.
Incorporate Smart Technology
In this modern world, it is worth considering integrating smart appliances and devices that can enhance convenience and efficiency in your kitchen. For example, connected lighting or smart thermostats can be quite useful. With more space, you can also add more appliances, such as a larger refrigerator, double ovens, or a spacious island with a cooktop. This can greatly improve the functionality of your kitchen and make cooking more efficient.
Small Kitchen Extension Ideas
For small kitchens, we must use the space efficiently while enhancing functionality and aesthetics. Here are some ideas and tips for small kitchen extensions.
Optimise Vertical Space
Maximise your storage space by installing tall cabinets that reach the ceiling. Keep everyday items accessible with wall-mounted shelves or racks. Free up cabinet space by hanging pots and pans on a wall-mounted rack or inside cabinet doors.
Choose Multi-Functional Furniture
Optimise your kitchen’s workspace and storage by using a kitchen island or butcher’s block with storage underneath, and opt for furniture pieces that can serve multiple purposes.
Maximise Light and Bright Colours
To create a sense of openness and brightness in your living space, it is recommended to use light colours for the walls, cabinets, and countertops. You can also make the area feel more open and airy by incorporating mirrors or reflective surfaces. Additionally, ensure good lighting in the room with under-cabinet lighting and strategically placed light fixtures.
Streamlined Design
To avoid visual clutter, choose sleek, minimalist designs and space-saving appliances like slim refrigerators or combination microwave/oven units.
Utilise Nooks and Corners
Transform awkward corners or nooks into functional areas like a built-in breakfast or coffee station. Consider custom-built storage solutions tailored to the space’s unique layout.
Whether working with a small kitchen or planning a considerable kitchen extension, thoughtful design and strategic use of space can transform your kitchen into a functional, stylish, and enjoyable area that suits your needs and lifestyle.
How H & OB Building Can Help with Your Kitchen
If you are in (or near) the West Oxfordshire area, the H & OB Building would love to discuss your kitchen extension.
We use two suppliers, both of whom are in the Oxfordshire area.
H & OB Building will come to your home to discuss the available options for your kitchen extension so that you can make the most of every opportunity.