Plan the layout as early as possible. Before any building work begins, you need to make sure your extension can fit in everything you’re dreaming of. The space also needs to flow well, and work for everyone in the family.
Consider working with a designer. If you’re building a particularly large extension, it can be tricky to work out how you’ll use the space. You need a liveable space that doesn’t feel too cramped or cavernous. A designer can offer advice on the best layout for your needs, helping you make decisions early on about where everything will go.
Make a detailed budget. It’s easy to forget about taps, tiles and other finishing touches when you’re budgeting for walls, plastering and plumbing. But these small but essential details can derail your budget if you aren’t careful. So, get out your spreadsheet and plan your budget right down to the very last door handle.
Think about natural light. Lighting is crucial in any space, but larger extensions in particular can sometimes suffer from a lack of natural light. If the extension projects into the garden, that can leave the back of the kitchen a little too dark. You’ll need to think about solutions to overcome this, from skylights to lighting designs schemes. You can even adjust the layout so that your workspaces are positioned close to sources of natural light.
Get lots of quotes. It’s never a good idea to accept the first quote you’re offered. Speak to lots of different builders, especially those with experience in kitchen extensions. Remember that price isn’t everything, and that a super cheap price could actually be something to steer clear of. It could be just as important to have a good relationship with your builder, and put your project in the hands of a skilled, experienced tradesperson who really understands what you want.
Be realistic about the timescale. Building an extension is a major job, so it’s likely to take time to complete. You can also expect it to be messy and disruptive, so you might want to think about relocating until works are complete.
Think about how the new extension blends with your existing building. Its up to you whether the extension complements or contrasts with the rest of your home, but the blend of old and new will take some planning to get right. The fit of the kitchen will be crucial to this, so make sure you bring in an experienced professional like A&J Kitchens to get a perfect, seamless finish.
To talk about your kitchen extension plans and how we can help, feel free to get in touch for a chat – call us on 01942 873781 or email [email protected].