Structural Alterations

A structural alteration changes the fundamental structure of a house, such as the walls, foundations, or roof. These changes can improve safety, create open-plan layouts, or adapt older properties for modern living. As structural alterations affect a building’s stability, they must be carefully planned and carried out in accordance with current building regulations. 

First, check whether it’s a load-bearing or a partition wall. If it’s load-bearing (i.e supporting the roof, floor or another wall), a structural engineer or architect must design the correct support, which is usually a steel beam or concrete beam. The foundation may also need reinforcement or replacement if the increased loads exceed its capacity. Our Structural Engineers account for these factors and ensure full compliance with Building Regulations and the Structural Building Code. 

You’ll need temporary supports in place before demolition, and must ensure services such as pipes or wiring are made safe. From there, you can carefully strip back the wall, starting with the plaster first, then the brick or stud work, before repairing floors and finishes. 

Although the process sounds simple, it’s rarely straightforward, as even non-load-bearing walls can hide unexpected issues. The safest approach is to bring in professionals who can confirm the structure, handle the necessary approvals, and execute the work correctly.

The cost for an open-plan kitchen varies significantly depending on the project size and scope. The finishes you choose, structural changes required, and where you live all impact the final cost. Recent industry data suggest the following costs:  

Entry level: A small open-plan kitchen with basic units, laminate worktops, one load-bearing wall removed, and minimal finishes often starts at around £12,000. 

Mid-range: Branded appliances, quality units, and higher-grade worktops and flooring can push your costs to £20,000-£35,000 

High-end/bespoke: For larger spaces, custom-made cabinetry, premium materials and finishes, you might spend £40,000-£75,000+. 

Structural work, such as knocking out walls and installing steel beams, will further increase costs.  

PDK’s architectural design team will assess your space, structural needs, and finish level to provide you with a bespoke quote, ensuring you have an accurate cost for your project. 

Most internal alterations don’t need planning permission. However, you will need Building Regulations approval to ensure the work meets building code and safety standards. Planning permission may be required if your home is listed, in a conservation area, or the changes affect the exterior.  

We’ll guide you through the approvals process as part of our service. 

Structural alterations change a building’s framework, including load-bearing walls, floors, roofs, or foundations. These changes affect the building’s stability and require proper design and approval. Non-structural alterations are surface-level updates, such as decorating, replacing fittings, or moving internal stud walls, which don’t compromise the structure. 

Creating larger open-plan spaces, adding rooms, or modernising layouts often increases property value. Well-designed alterations can make a home feel brighter and better suited to modern living, which can make it more appealing to buyers.  

The timescale depends on the scale of work. Removing a single wall may take only a few days once approvals and structural plans are in place. More complex projects, such as extensions or multiple alterations, can run into weeks. We’ll provide a clear schedule at the design stage so you know what to expect. 

Hiring an architect or experienced designer isn’t always a legal requirement. However, these experts will ensure your ideas are practical, compliant, and structurally sound. We’ll also produce detailed plans for contractors, helping your project run smoothly from start to finish.