Do I need planning permission for a kitchen extension?

Sometimes. Many extensions are permitted development, but limits and conditions apply, and you will always need building regulations approval. Check with your council.

What is a side return extension?

An extension that fills the narrow strip of land beside the back of a terraced or semi-detached house, often combined with a rear extension.

How can I make an extension feel bright?

Use rooflights, large glazed doors and windows, and light finishes, and think about the direction of the sun.

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Kitchen extension ideas for UK homes

By the GlowUpp team · 27 October 2026

The plain back of a brick house next to the same house with a new glazed extension

BeforeAfter‹›

An AI-generated example. Real results depend on your own space.

A kitchen extension is one of the biggest changes you can make to a home. Good planning decides whether it feels bright, connected to the garden and worth it.

Common types of extension

Rear extension: adds depth across the back of the house.
Side return: fills the narrow strip beside a terrace or semi.
Wraparound: combines a rear and side extension.
Orangery or glazed addition: lots of glass and light.

Think about the layout inside

Decide where the cooking, dining and living areas will sit, and how people will move between the old and new parts of the house. Keep the kitchen close to where services already run if you can.

Bring in light

Rooflights, bifold or sliding doors and large windows make an extension feel open. Think about sun, heat and privacy as well as light.

Connect with the garden

Level thresholds, doors that open fully and a patio just outside make the garden feel like part of the room.

Choose materials that match

Brick, render or cladding that suits the original house usually looks best. Use the same flooring across the old and new rooms to make it feel like one space.

Check the rules early

Many extensions come under permitted development, others need planning permission, and all need building regulations approval. Rules differ for flats, conservation areas and if rights have been removed, so check with your council.

Hire the right team

Most projects need a designer or architect, a builder and sometimes a structural engineer. Get several quotes and check insurance and past work. Always ask a qualified professional before moving gas, electrics or plumbing, or changing anything structural, and check your lease or local rules if you rent or live in a conservation area.

See the idea first

Upload a photo of your house to GlowUpp to see AI-generated ideas for an extension, which you can use as part of your brief.

See your own extension redesigned

Upload a photo and see AI-generated ideas in about two minutes. Free for homeowners, no sign-up needed to start.

Try it with your photo

Common questions

Do I need planning permission for a kitchen extension?: Sometimes. Many extensions are permitted development, but limits and conditions apply, and you will always need building regulations approval. Check with your council.
What is a side return extension?: An extension that fills the narrow strip of land beside the back of a terraced or semi-detached house, often combined with a rear extension.
How can I make an extension feel bright?: Use rooflights, large glazed doors and windows, and light finishes, and think about the direction of the sun.