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Kitchen side return extensions are one of the most effective ways to transform how a London home works. In many Victorian and Edwardian properties, kitchens are located in narrow rear rooms with limited light and poor connection to the rest of the house.
At Armstrong Simmonds Architects, we design kitchen side return extensions that improve light, flow and day-to-day usability. Whether the aim is to create an open-plan kitchen and dining space or create a more clearly defined space for the kitchen itself, we take a considered architectural approach from concept through to construction.
Aside from providing you with a beautiful design, your architect needs to navigate complex
planning and building laws that regulate the construction industry. Therefore, appointing a
practice with the right amount of experience is the key to a smooth project delivery. Although
not essential, appointing a RIBA chartered practice is also an important factor to consider.
Being RIBA Chartered means that the practice must adhere to a code of conduct of
professionalism and ethics which ensure quality control within the Architectural industry. The
experience of the practice within London is another important factor to consider, particularly,
as each borough has different modes of operation which can influence the design process.
Whilst the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) provides the backbone for planning
policy, each individual borough will have its own set of policy and guidance. A particular
challenge within the borough of London is the planning process for basement design. For
such a complex undertaking, stringent planning requirements must be met in the form of
traffic reports, geology surveys and more. Another challenge is the added complexity of
working with historic buildings. If your building is within a conservation area, a designated
building of interest, or a listed building, any work to that building or surrounding area will be
subject to strict requirements that are typically more rigorous than standard planning
requirements. London Architects and designers must ensure their clients are advised
appropriately on the process and that suitable consultants are appointed to conduct the
necessary work.
A kitchen side return extension can help to:
In many London homes, even a relatively modest extension can significantly improve how the kitchen functions when the layout is resolved properly.
Our portfolio includes a range of kitchen-focused side return extensions in London, from compact interventions in Victorian terraces to larger open-plan transformations. Each project is developed with a focus on spatial clarity, light and long-term usability.
Kitchen side return extensions are driven primarily by layout and use rather than a fixed formula. The available width, existing structure and spatial priorities will inform the design, although certain approaches consistently result in more effective and well-resolved kitchen spaces.
As a RIBA Chartered practice founded in 2010, Armstrong Simmonds Architects offers a complete architectural service for residential projects across London. Our work on kitchen side return extensions is shaped by the same principles that run through the wider studio: a focus on bespoke residential design, careful attention to light and materiality, and a commitment to creating spaces that are both functional and refined.
Planning requirements vary depending on the property and location. Some kitchen side return extensions fall within permitted development, while others require planning permission, particularly in conservation areas.
We assess planning constraints early and develop the design in parallel with the kitchen layout, helping to reduce risk and avoid redesign later in the process.
The cost of a kitchen side return extension in London depends on size, specification and complexity.
Each project is unique with different constraints and requirements. Costs will be influenced by:
We help align design decisions with budget from the outset and support the tendering process to ensure appropriate contractor selection.
We are glad we found Armstrong Simmonds Architects to help us on our first project. We had bought a run-down terraced house near Clapham Common with the goal of extending and refurbing to increase value. John initially impressed us by first listening carefully to what we wanted to do, then showing us creative ways to achieve the results and finish we were looking for.
Safe to say we certainly have managed that and both John and Alan have been instrumental in doing so. The guidance and consideration at every step have exceeded our expectations and Alan’s attention to detail during the build has been critical for the high standards we have set for this project.
They have provided us with a service which reflects every stage of the design and build. Starting with the initial drawings, schedule of works, tendering and interior design. We also employed ASA for Contract Administration to be the key middle-man between us and the builder, which they were happy to help.
We are now underway with our second project with ASA and they have been able to deliver the final drawings for planning within a fairly tight time frame, without hindering on quality. I know the whole team worked hard to help bring our vision to life and it’s been brilliant working with them over the last 18 months. They have shown a great ability to solve any issues that arose quickly and are able to communicate effectively with different contractors at all levels. I have no doubt the next redevelopment project will go well.
We chose Alan and John for our extensive project and incredibly pleased with that choice and the result. We have a Victorian terraced house and wanted to do a classic loft conversion and ground floor extension. The Armstrong Simmonds team provided a vision which achieved our goals, but with a design we could have never have thought of ourselves which we love. We used them from start to finish and are incredibly glad we did. Alan supported us through the tender and renovation processes, and we are incredibly pleased with the end-product and the quality of work of builder Cezar of Vecchini. We would highly recommend Armstrong Simmonds for their vision, design thoughtfulness and exceptional assistance through the project. Thanks team!
We worked with Alan and the team from Armstrong Simmonds for 3 years from start to finish to achieve the full renovation of a London townhouse. It was a challenging brief given the nature of the property but collectively what has been achieved is an outstanding end result. Alan and John thoughtfully incorporated our vision with the realities of converting an old Victorian house and the scrupulous attention to detail, symmetry and balance achieved in the design were instrumental in us choosing Armstrong Simmonds in the first place.
In addition Alan supported us through the tender and during the renovation working with our excellent builder Cezar of Vecchini to deliver the brief. I would highly recommend if you are looking for a team to turning your vision to the end product with a very high attention to detail while still being good humoured and a generally great guy to work with. Thanks again team. Dom and Kamilla
John and his team have been brilliant to work with for our full house renovation and extension in SW London. Our house is quite unique and that combined with it being in a conservation area we knew it wouldn’t be a straight forward planning process – but Armstrong Simmonds did a fantastic job and helped us navigate us through every step. We couldn’t be happier with the detailed design and outcome.
If you are considering a kitchen side return extension in London, we would be pleased to discuss your project. Armstrong Simmonds Architects can guide you from early ideas through planning, technical design and construction, helping you create a kitchen that works seamlessly for everyday life.
Architect's studio/ Kitchen Side Return Extensions in London
