Kitchen extension costs in South Essex
Most single-storey kitchen and kitchen-diner extensions in South Essex cost between about £41,000 and £76,000 to build, with build costs typically around £2,250 to £3,300 per square metre. Small side returns can come in below that; large wrap-arounds and glass boxes with premium finishes can go well above it. The kitchen units, worktops and appliances are extra.
These guide prices are for the extension itself. Outside works such as patios, paths and landscaping are not included, because they depend on your garden. Very small extensions, under about 5m² (a porch or a small infill, say), cost more per square metre, because the fixed costs of the build are shared over less floor space.
Guide prices by type (medium size, good finish)
| Type of extension | About 15 to 25m² |
|---|---|
| Rear kitchen extension | £45k to £61k |
| Side-return extension | £47k to £64k |
| Open-plan kitchen-diner | £47k to £64k |
| Wrap-around extension | £52k to £70k |
| Glass box or orangery | £56k to £76k |
| Double-storey extension (15 to 25m² on each floor) | £71k to £97k |
Guide prices by size and finish (rear extension)
| Size | Standard | Good | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small, about 10 to 15m² | £23k to £31k | £27k to £37k | £34k to £46k |
| Medium, about 15 to 25m² | £38k to £52k | £45k to £61k | £56k to £76k |
| Large, about 25 to 40m² | £61k to £83k | £72k to £98k | £90k to £122k |
The kitchen itself
Budget separately for the kitchen: units, worktops and appliances typically add around £10,000 to £14,000 for a standard kitchen, £14,000 to £20,000 for a good mid-range kitchen, and £20,000 to £30,000 or more for a premium one.
What affects the cost of a kitchen extension?
- Size. The biggest single factor, though the cost per square metre falls a little as the extension gets bigger.
- Type and shape. A simple rectangle costs least. Wrap-arounds and glass boxes need more steel, more glazing and more detailing.
- Glazing. Wide sliding doors, bifolds, roof lanterns and structural glass make the room, and they are a big part of the budget.
- Roof. A flat roof with a lantern is usually the most economical; vaulted and fully glazed roofs cost more.
- Steelwork. Removing the back wall of the house to create one open space needs steel beams, sized by a structural engineer.
- Ground and drainage. South Essex’s London clay often means deeper foundations near trees, and moving drains adds cost.
- Finish. Flooring, underfloor heating, lighting and joinery are where standard, good and premium really differ.
How to keep your kitchen extension on budget
Decide early what matters most (usually the light, the layout and the doors) and keep the rest simple. Fix the kitchen design before the build starts, so the drainage, power and steelwork are placed for it. And get a written, itemised quote, so you can see exactly what is included and compare like with like.
Cost questions
How much does a kitchen extension cost per square metre?
In South Essex, expect roughly £2,250 to £3,300 per square metre for a single-storey build, depending on the type and finish. Glass-heavy designs and premium finishes sit at the top of that range or above it. A double-storey extension works out lower per square metre, at around £2,100 for a good finish, because the upstairs shares the foundations and roof. Very small areas, under about 5m², cost more per square metre.
Is the estimator a quote?
No. It gives you an honest guide range based on typical projects in South Essex, so you can plan your budget. Your free consultation and written quote give you the accurate figure for your home.
What is not included in a kitchen extension price?
The kitchen units, worktops and appliances are usually priced separately, and so are outside works such as patios, paths and landscaping. Planning fees, building control fees, structural engineer and party wall surveyor costs vary by project; your quote should list which are included.
Can I build a kitchen extension for £30,000?
Sometimes. A small, simple rear extension or side return at a standard finish can come in around that figure, before the kitchen itself. Try the estimator with a small size to see what is realistic for your home.