Premium Kitchen Extension Inner West

The cost of a kitchen extension in Sydney’s Inner West generally ranges from $110,000 to over $270,000 depending on the scope of the project. A simple rear extension with moderate finishes might fall on the lower end of that range, especially if it stays within existing structural parameters. However, more complex extensions involving structural changes, custom joinery, high-end appliances, and opening up internal walls can easily push the cost beyond $250,000. The presence of heritage overlays, access limitations (common in narrow streets or terraces), and the need for underpinning or excavation can also significantly impact the final cost. It’s important for homeowners to request a detailed quote that includes all design, engineering, approval, and construction costs before beginning the project.

Whether you need council approval or can proceed under a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) depends heavily on your property’s location, zoning, and heritage status. In some parts of the Inner West, such as newer subdivisions or homes not affected by heritage controls, a CDC may be used for straightforward, code-compliant extensions that meet setbacks, height limits, and floor space ratios. However, many homes in the Inner West—particularly in suburbs like Annandale, Balmain, Newtown, and Haberfield—are subject to heritage conservation rules. These areas almost always require a full Development Application (DA) through the local council, which includes community notification, heritage impact assessments, and design review. Working with a builder or architect familiar with Inner West council processes is essential to ensure your kitchen extension complies and avoids delays.

A kitchen extension in the Inner West typically takes between 3 to 6 months from the start of construction to completion. This timeline assumes that all approvals are already in place and there are no major unforeseen issues such as site access restrictions or supply delays. If a Development Application is required, the entire process can extend by an additional 2 to 4 months due to the time needed for design, lodgement, council assessment, and community feedback. In heritage areas, this process may take even longer. The build time also depends on factors like whether you’re altering load-bearing walls, relocating services such as plumbing and gas, or adding features like skylights, walk-in pantries, or large-format sliding doors. A well-managed project with detailed planning and a fixed timeline is the best way to ensure minimal disruption and timely delivery.

Several Inner West suburbs are known for having more stringent heritage and planning controls due to their historical significance and architectural character. Haberfield is one of the most restrictive, with almost all properties falling within heritage conservation zones that limit what can be changed to the street-facing façade or roofline. Balmain, Annandale, and Newtown also have large areas where development must align with strict conservation guidelines. In these areas, extensions need to be sympathetic to the original architecture and use appropriate materials such as weatherboard, brick, or traditional-style windows. This often means that modern open-plan kitchen extensions need to be cleverly designed so they’re not visible from the street, or are hidden behind the existing structure to preserve the heritage streetscape.

A well-drafted fixed-price contract for a kitchen extension should include detailed line items for all stages of the project. This typically covers site preparation and demolition, architectural and engineering drawings, structural work, roofing, electrical and plumbing upgrades, new cabinetry and benchtops, flooring, splashbacks, appliance installation, final painting, and clean-up. It should also include allowances for approvals, such as CDC or DA fees, and inspections. In the Inner West, where access can be difficult and unforeseen issues like asbestos or unstable footings are common, a fixed-price contract should clearly outline what is and isn’t included. Builders with experience in the area often include contingency planning to minimise cost blowouts. It’s important for homeowners to review the inclusions carefully and ensure that materials and finishes match the agreed specifications to avoid variation fees.

Choosing the right builder for a kitchen extension in the Inner West involves more than just comparing quotes. It's crucial to select a builder who has a deep understanding of local planning controls, especially in heritage areas. Look for builders who have completed similar projects in suburbs like Marrickville, Petersham, or Dulwich Hill, as they’ll be familiar with the local council expectations and common construction challenges like tight access or aging infrastructure. Ask for references from recent clients and inspect completed projects if possible. It's also a good sign if the builder offers both design and construction services, as this creates a streamlined process from concept to completion. Clear communication, transparent pricing, and realistic timelines are equally important. The best builders will take the time to understand your vision while guiding you on what’s feasible based on local planning rules and budget constraints.

It is often possible to live in your home while a kitchen extension is underway, but it depends on the extent of the work and your tolerance for disruption. If the kitchen is being entirely demolished and rebuilt, you’ll likely be without cooking facilities for at least several weeks. Some families set up a temporary kitchen in another part of the house using a microwave, portable cooktop, and mini fridge. If structural changes are being made that affect access, utilities, or safety, your builder may recommend vacating the property for a portion of the build. Dust, noise, and early morning construction activity are also factors to consider. In many Inner West properties, the compact site layouts and shared boundaries can mean that builders have limited staging space, which might increase onsite congestion. Discuss living arrangements in detail with your builder ahead of time and consider alternative accommodation during the most disruptive phases of construction.