Maximising Space and Value: The Ultimate Guide to Kitchen Extensions

Introduction:

In today's fast-paced world, the kitchen has evolved from being a purely functional space to the heart of the home, where families gather, meals are prepared, and memories are made. However, as lifestyles change and families grow, the need for a spacious and modern kitchen becomes increasingly apparent. Kitchen extensions offer the perfect solution, allowing you to maximise your living space and create a customised kitchen that meets your needs and enhances your lifestyle. In this blog post, we will explore the ins and outs of kitchen extensions, from planning and design to construction and beyond.

1. Initial Considerations:

Before diving into the world of kitchen extensions, it's essential to consider a few key factors. Firstly, assess your needs and priorities – do you require additional space for dining, storage, or entertaining? Consider how you currently use your kitchen and how you envision using it in the future. Next, evaluate your budget and determine how much you are willing to invest in your kitchen extension project. Finally, think about your desired style and aesthetics – do you prefer a modern, open-plan layout or a more traditional kitchen design? To help you envision how you could transform your kitchen, check out the before and after photos of recent kitchen extensions we have recently completed or view our projects.

2. Planning and Design:

Once you've outlined your goals and priorities, it's time to consider the planning and design phase. Start by consulting with a professional architect or designer who can help you visualise your dream kitchen extension. Consider factors such as layout, lighting, materials, and appliances to create a design that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Take into account any planning regulations or building permits required for your project, as well as potential challenges such as structural modifications or utility relocations.

3. Pre-Construction Stage

Once the final design of your new kitchen extension is in place, it is crucial to have all the necessary legal documents before commencing the construction.

• Party Wall Agreement: If you're planning a kitchen extension within 3 meters of a neighbouring property and the proposed works involve a party wall, you may need to follow the procedures outlined in the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.  This is a common requirement in London, as most houses fall into this category.

• Approved Building Control Inspector: Before commencing your kitchen extension, ensure that you have appointed an Approved Building Control Inspector. They will ensure that your project complies with all relevant building regulations.

• Building Regulations Drawings: Ensure you have a full set of building regulations drawings, including all structural designs and calculations. This is essential for obtaining necessary approvals and ensuring the safety and structural integrity of your extension. As part of the building regulations, you need to have calculations of U values for various building elements. This is important for achieving energy efficiency and compliance with building standards.

• Thames Water Builder Over Agreement: Another point that is often overlooked is the Thames Water Builder Over Agreement. This agreement is necessary if your extension will affect any water pipes or infrastructure owned by Thames Water.

• Prepare Tender Documents:

• Create comprehensive tender documents outlining the project specifications, including architectural drawings, materials, finishes, and other relevant details. Be sure to include instructions for submission and evaluation criteria.

4. Construction Stage

Depending on the scope of your project, the construction stage will involve several phases. As with all building works, there will be some disruption to your daily routine, but to make it more manageable, we have broken this into smaller stages of the build. At NGC Build, we have created Milestones to manage the project and give our clients an understanding of how their kitchen extension project is going

Milestone 01 - Site Setup and Enabling Work

This milestone involves preparing the site for construction. It includes tasks such as clearing the area, setting up temporary facilities, obtaining necessary permits, and establishing safety protocols. Enabling works ensure that the kitchen extension is ready for subsequent construction activities to commence smoothly.

Milestone 02 - Sub Structure

The sub-structure elements of a kitchen extension are crucial components that provide the foundation and structural support necessary for the extension's stability and durability. Below is an image of the list of works we would normally undertake in this stage

Milestone 03 - Structure

In this milestone, the main structure of the kitchen extension begins to take shape. It involves constructing external walls, installing the roof, fitting double glazing for windows, and completing the initial carpentry work, such as partitions and creating new internal rooms. This milestone marks significant progress as the extension starts to resemble its final form, and you will be Home Dry

Milestone 04 - Services

Milestone 04 focuses on installing essential services to make the kitchen extension functional. This includes plumbing and heating systems such as radiators or water underfloor heating, electrical wiring for lighting and power points, and connecting utilities to the extension. Think about how you will be using the new space and design the lighting and power points to accommodate this. You don't want to have the sockets in the wrong place or not enough lighting in the cooking area. Completing this milestone ensures that the extension is equipped with the necessary amenities for everyday use. 

Milestone 05 - Insulation and Dry-Lining

Dry-lining involves adding insulation, plasterboard, plastering, and rendering to the interior and exterior walls of the kitchen extension. This milestone aims to create a weatherproof and insulated structure. Additionally, landscaping around the extension may be initiated to enhance the overall aesthetics of the property.

Milestone 06 - Finishes

The final milestone encompasses all the finishing touches to complete the kitchen extension. This includes second-fix carpentry, such as installing doors and skirting boards, tiling for floors and walls, final plumbing and electrical fittings, and decorating the interior spaces. Milestone 06 brings the project to its conclusion, leaving the kitchen side extension ready for occupancy.

5. Completion and Enjoyment:

As the construction phase draws to a close, it's time to celebrate the completion of your kitchen extension project. Take the time to appreciate the transformation of your space and enjoy the benefits of your new kitchen. Host a dinner party for friends and family to showcase your upgraded culinary haven, or simply savour the quiet moments of cooking and relaxing in your revitalised space. With proper care and maintenance, your kitchen extension will continue to serve you and your family for years to come, adding value and functionality to your home.

Conclusion:

Kitchen extensions offer homeowners the opportunity to create their dream kitchen, tailored to their unique needs and preferences. From initial planning and design to construction and completion, the journey of a kitchen extension can be both exciting and rewarding. By following the steps outlined in this guide and working with experienced professionals such as architects, designers, and contractors, homeowners can achieve their vision of the perfect kitchen extension and enhance the value and enjoyment of their home.