How to extend your kitchen

If you're inspired by Rhian and Tom's stunning kitchen, take note of these handy hints to help you plan your own extension project

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Although a kitchen extension can be an exciting prospect and a worthwhile investment, it can seem a little overwhelming. There's a lot to think about before you begin, and our essential guide has all the know-how you need to help you turn the hub of your home into a larger, more family-friendly space.

Decide on your goal

Whether you find preparing meals in your small kitchen less than enjoyable, or you dream of a more open-plan space that the whole family can enjoy, an extension could provide the perfect solution. Any sort of extension is a big undertaking, so the first step is to consider if you could achieve your ideal space by simply reconfiguring what you already have rather than increasing the floor space. If the answer is no, you should start thinking carefully about what you want to achieve and how the end result will work for you.

Work out your budget

The type and size of extension you opt for will depend on many factors, with the main one being your budget. As a general rule, a standard kitchen extension project can cost between around £1,750 and £2,400 per square metre of new space added, but these costs will vary depending on where you live, and your specific requirements. You'll also need to take into account additional costs such as architect, building regulations and planning fees, and it's always best to have a contingency of around 20% in case of unforeseen expenses. Many experts suggest that, depending on the size and quality of your extension, you could expect the value of your property to increase by up to 20%, and data from Rated People suggests that 14% of buyers would be more likely to buy a home if the kitchen had been extended.

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