#NU BLOG

Kitchen Extensions in Fulham: Planning, Design and Delivery

Feb 15
3 min read

Updated: Aug 1

A kitchen extension can transform a Fulham terrace, but the strongest projects do more than add floor area. They improve daylight, circulation, storage, garden connection and the way the whole ground floor works.

NU Projects has been based on Fulham High Street since 2010. Our integrated route connects architecture, interiors, cost planning, building services and construction so important decisions are resolved before site work begins.

Which extension type is right for the house?

Side-return extension

Building into the narrow passage beside the rear projection can widen the kitchen and create a better dining zone. Rooflights or a glazed roof section often help bring daylight into the middle of the plan.

Rear extension

Extending directly into the garden can create a clear kitchen and family room. The design must balance new space with garden depth, neighbour impact and the relationship to the original house.

Wraparound extension

Combining side and rear additions can produce the largest change, but it also increases structural, planning, roof, drainage and cost considerations. Bigger is not automatically better; proportions and daylight still matter.

Design the ground floor as one sequence

Before fixing the kitchen, review the entrance, front room, stairs, WC, utility, storage and route to the garden. A good plan removes pinch points and gives practical functions a proper place rather than hiding them after the visual design is complete.

Planning and neighbour considerations

The approval route depends on the property and proposal. Conservation constraints, previous extensions and local conditions may affect what is possible. Party-wall matters, access and neighbour communication should be considered early and tracked alongside planning.

Structure, drainage and building services

New openings, steelwork, rooflights and level thresholds must be coordinated with drainage, waterproofing and the kitchen layout. Heating, ventilation, lighting, power, data and controls need space within floors, ceilings and joinery. Early MEP planning prevents visible compromises later.

Building a realistic budget and programme

Separate the base build from glazing, kitchen, appliances, joinery, lighting, finishes, external work, professional fees, statutory costs, contingency and VAT. Connect procurement dates to the programme, particularly for glazing, kitchens, stone and bespoke joinery.

Use the NU Build Cost Calculator as an early planning benchmark, then develop a measured project-specific cost plan before construction.

How to compare Fulham extension teams

Completed local projects of comparable scope
A named design, commercial and site-delivery team
Clear responsibility for planning, structure and services
A written scope with allowances and exclusions
A realistic preconstruction and build programme
Documented quality control, commissioning and aftercare

See NU’s Fulham design and build service and completed residential projects for evidence of the wider delivery model.

See the Cambria Street kitchen-extension and renovation project for a completed example of NU Projects’ residential delivery.

Frequently asked questions

What type of kitchen extension suits a Fulham terrace?

Side-return, rear and wraparound extensions can all work, but the right option depends on the existing plan, garden, daylight, neighbours, planning context and budget.

Does a Fulham kitchen extension need planning permission?

Some schemes may fall within permitted-development rights while others need planning permission. The position must be checked for the property, proposal and any local restrictions.