Advice

There are many ways to make a small kitchen work, but building an extension to create a larger kitchen, can create much needed space and add value to your home.

The advantages include more options for your cooking and storage space but an extension can also create areas for dining, entertaining and relaxing. We often see extensions with bi-fold doors opening into the garden or patio area. This brings in much more light and the ‘outside in’ to create the feeling of space and a relaxation.

Our advice is to plan carefully, and to consider exactly what you want to use the space for. It’s easy to get carried away with simply wanting more space, but it has to work for you. We can advise at this stage and design your kitchen.

Removing partition walls

There are lots of options to create more living and cooking space in your home. The easiest solution is to change the existing floorplan. We install many kitchens where home owners have knocked down the partition wall between the kitchen and dining room. Practically, you will need to engage the services of a structural engineer to ensure walls aren’t load bearing. If they are your builder can install an RSJ to support where the wall has been removed. It’s an additional expense but still a very cost effective way of making the space work better for you.

Extending

Adding an extension, and building out, provides the freedom to expand and create the space you need. It’s a more expensive option but will add value to your property if it’s done right. Often extensions will feature Velux roof windows and B-Fold doors to create stunning open spaces. You will need to seek advice from an architect who will create technical drawing and advise on planning permission, building control and structural engineering for example.

An investment

Extending your kitchen can be a major investment so take your time and plan it carefully. What space do you need and what does it need to do? What will you need in a few years time, and will it cope with what you’re demanding of it? Can you do everything you need from homework with the kids to holding a dinner party?

We can help you to plan your space. Call into your nearest showroom and we can offer free advice to make sure your project looks and functions exactly as you want it to. We have showrooms in Newcastle (0191 414 4464), Gateshead (0191 487 4874), Hexham (01434 671196) and Whitley Bay (0191 251 5757).

Lighting can make all the difference to your kitchen. It can help to illuminate dark spots, create light to work in for cooking areas, or a soft cosy glow for everyday use. When thinking about lighting consider how reflective your services are and how much natural light your room gets. High gloss units, glass splashbacks and stainless steel appliances can all help to illuminate a room.