Open-plan kitchen extensions: what you need to know
Open-plan kitchen extensions can be an effective way to expand your space and make your home more attractive.
And just like any other building project, your open-plan kitchen will require careful planning and budgeting.
In this article, we explain what you need to consider before embarking on your exciting plans. We’ll cover kitchen extensions cost, design, and more to help you prepare for your project.
Planning your open-plan extension
Break down your planning into stages to make the whole process more manageable. Here’s what you need to do to achieve your dream open-plan kitchen:
1. Assess your current kitchen space
List the things you like about it and the features you want to change.
These points could range from the amount of natural light you get to the quantity and position of storage space. Writing your pros and cons list will help you focus on what you really want to achieve from your new open-plan space.
2. Consider your needs
As part of this process, think about how you need your new kitchen to function.
An open-plan space is often usually multifunctional. So think about how it will not only accommodate your kitchen equipment but also offer a place for relaxing, socialising, or even working.
3. Work out kitchen extensions cost
For an overview of kitchen extension cost in the UK, check out this Ideal Home guide. It breaks down the various costs involved (e.g., cabinets, appliances, and professional services). While it’s not definitive, it will give you a ballpark figure to work with.
Next, work out how you’re going to finance your new open-plan kitchen, whether that’s through remortgaging your property or dipping into your savings.
It’s important to keep track of your expenses as your project progresses, so set up a spreadsheet early on to list and record your spending.
4. Create a mood board
A mood board brings together ideas of kitchen designs and features you like. You can use an app like Pinterest or Canva to help you do this.
Your mood board will allow you to formulate your kitchen goals. You can also share them easily with your kitchen designer, builder, or architect.
5. Get quotes from builders
Now it’s time to call in the professionals. You will certainly want to at least gather two to three quotes from builders to help you achieve your project.
If neighbours, friends, or relatives have had work done, ask to take a look at their project. If you like what you see, ask for their builder’s contact details.
6. Factor in architect fees for your extension
At this stage in the project, consider investing in an architect who can help you make the best use of your space.
An open-plan kitchen often involves many challenges, such as removing an internal wall or changing the position of plumbing and electrical connections, which require an expert eye.
An architect will take structural issues into consideration in your design — for example, working round beams or pillars that provide support.
A well-connected architectural firm such as Humphreys & Sons can also advise on many other aspects of your build, such as planning permission or structural surveys. They can make applications on your behalf and check that regulations are met.
7. Decide on the details
As the project progresses, you’ll need to make decisions on those all-important finishing touches. These include items like cabinets, handles, lighting, tiles, and flooring.
Don’t underestimate how much work goes into making these decisions. Your kitchen is the heart of your home, so it’s important to get your fixtures and fittings right to create an atmosphere that you’ll love.
A wealth of experience in open-plan kitchen extension design
Creating your new open-plan kitchen requires careful planning.
Looking for experienced professionals who can help? Humphreys & Sons are a family-owned chartered building surveyor and architect practice with a wealth of experience in designing and project-managing home-building projects.
We can help in a number of ways, which include producing architectural drawings, applying for planning permission on your behalf, and even project managing the entire process.
Get in touch for a free quote for our professional architectural services — and take that first step towards your enhanced kitchen today.
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