Kitchen Extention Ideas
Inspiring Kitchen Extension Ideas
A kitchen extension is about more than increasing the square footage of your property. A great kitchen extension should improve the flow, layout and usability of the space to make your home more comfortable.
Learn the top kitchen extension ideas written by KCA’s qualified kitchen designers to help you visualise and achieve your dream kitchen extension.
Top 8 Kitchen Extension Ideas UK
We cover the best ideas for all types of extensions, from kitchen diner extensions to fully open-plan kitchen living layouts. Whatever the size or type, these ideas are the perfect starting point to help you get the most from your new extended space.
1. Create a Seamless Flow with a Kitchen Island
If you’ve dreamt of a kitchen island, this is the perfect addition to a kitchen extension. A kitchen island can preserve the working triangle layout to minimise the number of steps between the oven, sink and fridge. By following this principle with an island or peninsula, you can ensure it’s comfortable to cook, prep and wash up.
A kitchen island can also help to bring your new and old spaces together. With the right finishes, your island can be a visual link between your kitchen and dining zones. Also, an island can incorporate structural pillars or load-bearing walls to turn them into a feature.
2. Maximise Natural Light
Good natural light levels improve how we feel when we’re indoors. Maximising natural light is an important consideration for your kitchen extension.
Strategically position skylights, windows and external doors to allow sunlight to flood the kitchen. Glazing that faces southeast will flood the room with light in the morning and southwest in the afternoon.
Skylights can also enhance the feeling of height, which is especially beneficial for extensions with low ceilings.
3. Design Social Seating for All Occasions
A kitchen extension can transform a kitchen from being disconnected, small and cramped to the social hub of the home. Embrace the extra space and include a variety of seating options. Include a full-size dining table for meals with family and friends, which can double as a space for home working. For more informal moments, breakfast bar seating is ideal for a casual coffee and a chat or drinks in the evening.
It’s amazing how these different types of seating can enhance how you live in your extended home.
4. Use Flooring to Enhance Your Design
By defining zones in an open-plan kitchen extension, you can create distinct areas for different activities. Zoning makes the space more practical for multiple uses and improves the flow and visual organisation.
Using the same flooring throughout can connect your old footprint with the new extension to create a seamless look. The latest flooring finishes, such as engineered wood and tiles, can create your desired look while being practical for all zones.
In contrast, if you have a generous-sized space, it is a nice idea to include different flooring options. Varying the floor finish with each zone can give each area its own identity and make a large space feel cosier. In kitchen-dining areas, you could use a hard-wearing, water-resistant kitchen tile that transitions into engineered wood. Or, for kitchen and living room layouts, combine tiles with soft carpet or an area rug.
5. Turn an Awkward Space Into a Utility
When designing your kitchen extension, it is worth considering a utility or laundry room. Utility rooms are convenient places for noisy laundry machines and messy chores that would otherwise interrupt the main living area.
Utility spaces come in all shapes and sizes and are often the smallest rooms in the home, making them a perfect solution for awkward spaces. For some extensions, it’s beneficial to turn the old kitchen into the utility room.
6. Bring the Outdoors In
Create a greater sense of space and well-being by designing your kitchen extension to connect with your garden. Direct views of the garden improve well-being by connecting us with nature. Consider orienting your dining table toward bifold doors to the garden or locating a sink to face a window.
For the ultimate indoor-outdoor living layout, install bifold doors that open onto a level patio or decking area. A seamless flow between inside and out is ideal for summer months when friends gather for BBQs and garden parties.
7. Create a Dedicated Home Bar Area
With the extra space from your new kitchen extension, why not indulge in a stylish home bar area for entertaining? If you need storage for bottles of wine, spirits and glassware, turn this into a feature with a beautiful bar.
A home bar doesn’t need to be big. Include cabinets, open shelving or wine racks so everything has a place. You could even opt for a built-in wine fridge to store your bottles at the perfect temperature. Mirrored finishes and lighting will add a touch of glamour, creating the perfect space to gather during cocktail parties with friends.
8. Fitted Furniture to Connect the Space
A kitchen extension is a significant investment, so it’s important to get the most from every inch of new space. With thoughtful planning and design, you can squeeze in as much functionality as possible, helping you to get the most value.
Fitted storage beyond the kitchen is the answer. By designing extra built-in cabinets around the space, you can create practical storage without compromising on style.
Fitted furniture ideas:
- Design banquette seating with built-in storage
- Fitted media units to hide entertainment boxes and game consoles
- Fitted sideboards to store occasional tableware
- Tall cupboards to organise coats and shoes
Top Tips for Your Kitchen Extension
We hope you’ve enjoyed these kitchen extension ideas.
Here are some final top tips to keep in mind when you start planning your kitchen extension design:
- More space doesn’t necessarily lead to a better layout. Consider the floor plan carefully to ensure flow and appropriate zones.
- Think beyond just the newly extended space and review the entire ground floor plan. This will ensure that you don’t end up with awkward or unused spaces.
- Don’t forget to explore how your new and old spaces connect visually to create a cohesive design scheme.
A well-planned kitchen extension can increase property value by up to 20%. Key factors include:
- High-Quality Construction: Using premium materials and skilled craftsmanship ensures durability and appeal.
- Design and Functionality: Combining aesthetic appeal with practical features maximises usability.
- Additional Features: Incorporating elements like underfloor heating, energy-efficient appliances, or a pantry can significantly boost value.
Overall, a thoughtfully executed kitchen extension can be a smart investment, enhancing both the functionality and marketability of your home.
If you would like expert advice and guidance to help you get the most from your kitchen extension, book a free design consultation with a KCA designer.
