Do you feel you need the additional room that a kitchen extension will bring

More people are spending much more time thinking about home improvements than ever before, and life in the post-pandemic era has doubled our interest in improving our living spaces.

A new kitchen is an exciting project; yes, it has its ups and downs, as quite often, kitchen design and installation can seem overwhelming. However, there are many benefits to a modern kitchen: you can create the ideal space for yourself and the family to work, rest and play! Ask any kitchen supplier, and they will agree; that more people are looking for extra room in their custom kitchens; as lifestyles and habits have changed, the kitchen has become the hub of activity for most households.

A kitchen extension will change your home

The great thing about kitchen extensions is that they open up much more than just space; bespoke kitchens and extensions will deliver more light, especially to a galley-style kitchen that doesn't always benefit from natural light sources. New kitchen extensions are also a fantastic way to create an open plan feel to your existing space, a popular feature in many luxury kitchens, and an excellent return on investment by adding value to your home.

Put together a dream list of extension improvements.

Creating a wish-list for your new kitchen extension will help you visualise how it will benefit your everyday life. A well planned extension enables you to create the perfect space, so it is crucial to list all the key factors such as storage, kitchen appliances, furnishings, doors and windows and how you envision them to enable more efficiency, from a practical sense but also aesthetically.

Speak to your kitchen builder about your available budget

Working closely with your kitchen designers will ensure you set a clear plan and a realistic budget. To keep costs down, you can always explore standard building materials and regular fittings for features such as glazing. Also, remember that the bespoke extension route isn't always the most expensive!

Explore the need for a building notice or planning permission

This is a key factor and can be easy to overlook. Planning permission is not always required to get the extension plans into motion, size of extension and where on your house you hope to extend is the deciding factor. It can be a good sign if other people on your street or locality have had extensions and exterior building work, but if you are removing a supporting wall, you will need a building notice. It's a good idea to explore this early on in your quest for more space! Speak to your local council about the next steps; or talk to us here. At Plum Kitchens we have decades of construction experience and will be happy to guide you.

Where would you need the location of your kitchen extension?

Depending on the size and shape of your existing kitchen, there are various options as to where your extension will be best suited and how the design will optimise your need for more space. The two most popular types, located at the rear of the property, are single-story and a side return extension. You can also combine both options to produce an L-shaped addition, a popular choice with Victorian-style terrace properties. Your designers and kitchen builders will ensure you know what will work best for your property and the longevity of your investment.

Explore new kitchen styles before committing

Whether a country-style kitchen or an ultra-modern contemporary design, exploring ideas and new styles before committing is imperative to ensure you get the best possible experience. Working with a kitchen designer and planner will instill confidence and peace of mind that you are well informed and in an excellent position to make the right decisions at the right time!

Work with a experienced kitchen planner for your new layout.

From a shaker kitchen to smart kitchen storage, the layout is paramount in achieving the most you can from your new kitchen extension. Utilising the skills and experience of a professional kitchen planner means it will provide a new way of visualising your space's true potential. Aside from the structural work and design elements required, there are many other considerations to take on board, from cabinetry, furnishings, storage, kitchen appliances and colour schemes. A kitchen planner will ensure you are equipped with all the necessary details and ideas to make the best decisions for your new kitchen and surroundings.

Learn more about the Plum Complete Service

At Plum Kitchens, we offer a complete kitchen service. Our comprehensive package includes everything you need from the design, planning, delivery and installation of your new kitchen. Our industry professionals are always on hand and ready to share ideas on kitchen designs that can work for you. Not only do our team design, supply and fit kitchens, but they can also take away your unwanted appliances. We also offer electrical and plumbing, extensions, and structural work, so you don't have to worry about anything other than the soon-to-be - kitchen of your dreams! Why not pop down to our new kitchen showroom, within easy reach of South Birmingham, Redditch, Studley, Bromsgrove, Droitwhich and the wider Worcestershire area.