In today’s modern living, the kitchen is more than just a room for cooking. It’s also a social hub, a dining area, a homework station, and even an office for some. Given its multifunctional role in the house, designing a kitchen space that works really well is crucial. This task can be challenging, particularly in a UK terraced house where space is often at a premium. But with some careful planning, a dash of creativity, and a handful of good ideas, you can transform your kitchen into an open, functional, and inviting space. Let’s walk you through the best ways to plan your kitchen layout effectively.
Know Your Space
Understanding the dimensions and constraints of your kitchen is the first step in your kitchen planning journey. Measure your kitchen area carefully, taking note of the position of doors, windows, and utilities. Make sure you pay attention to the heights as well as widths, as this will influence your choice of wall units.
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Use these measurements to create a scale plan or a 3D model. Nowadays, there are many online tools that can help you with this. This image will give you a visual understanding of your space and help you in the next steps.
Meanwhile, don’t forget to consider the natural light your kitchen gets. A well-lit room can make a significant difference in your kitchen’s ambience.
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Choose Your Kitchen Layout
With the measurements at your disposal, it’s time to decide on the most suitable layout for your kitchen. There are several common kitchen layouts, each with its own advantages.
The traditional one-wall layout is often seen in smaller kitchens. This design aligns all the appliances and workspaces along one wall, making it the perfect choice for kitchens with limited space.
Another popular layout is the galley or corridor layout. It involves two parallel walls or lines of cabinets facing each other, creating an inner passage. This layout makes efficient use of space and is highly functional because the work triangle (sink, fridge, stove) is easily maintained.
For larger kitchens, the L-shaped and U-shaped layouts are worth considering. They provide plenty of workspace and storage, and accommodate an island if desired.
Incorporating an Island
Including an island in your kitchen design can be a game-changer. It adds extra workspace, provides additional storage, and can also function as a casual dining or socialising area. However, not all kitchens will benefit from an island.
If you’re considering an island, ensure it won’t obstruct the workflow or make the kitchen feel cramped. The placement of the island is crucial. Ideally, it should create a clear path between your main work areas. The size of the island also matters. Too big, and it eats up too much floor space. Too small, and it might not be very useful.
Plan Storage Smartly
In a terraced house, smart storage is key to making the most of your kitchen space. Think vertically and make use of the full height of the room. Tall cabinets, open shelves, and hanging racks are excellent for maximising storage.
Opt for deep drawers for pots, pans, and small appliances, and reserve wall cabinets for lighter items. Use the inside of cabinet doors for smaller items such as spice jars and utensils.
Consider incorporating built-in appliances into your kitchen design. They are excellent space savers and give your kitchen a sleek, modern look.
Create a Cohesive Dining and Living Area
In many terraced houses in the UK, the kitchen is an extension of the living and dining areas. Therefore, it’s important to ensure a cohesive design that seamlessly blends all these areas together.
Choose a colour palette that complements the rest of your house. For the flooring, consider using the same material throughout to create a seamless flow.
Make sure the style of your kitchen furniture matches your dining and living room furniture. If space allows, consider an open-plan design where the kitchen, dining area, and living room flow into each other. This will not only make your house look spacious but also facilitate social interaction.
Remember, effective kitchen planning is more than just about aesthetics. It’s about creating a space that’s easy to work in, comfortable to live in, and perfect for you and your family. So take your time, consider your options, and plan carefully.
Add a Side Return Extension
A popular modification in UK terraced homes is the addition of a side return extension. This involves extending the kitchen into the narrow alleyway (side return) that runs alongside the ground floor. This architectural endeavour not only gives you additional square footage but can dramatically change the feel of your space.
Before you begin, it’s essential to get the necessary planning approvals. The process may be time-consuming but it’s a crucial step. Once you’ve got the green light, work with an architect or kitchen designer to make the most of this new space.
Remember, a side return extension doesn’t have to mean one big open-plan space. You can use different floor levels, ceiling heights, or interior design elements to subtly divide the area into different zones. You can have a cook’s zone by the stove, a prep zone by the sink, and a social zone around the kitchen island.
In addition, a side return extension often involves a large glass door or skylight, bringing in more natural light into your kitchen. This can make a significant difference to the mood and feel of the space.
Consideration for Small Kitchen Spaces
If you’re working with a small kitchen, don’t despair. There are plenty of ways to maximise your space and create a functional, stylish kitchen.
Opt for a linear or galley kitchen layout. These designs are perfect for small spaces as they make the most of the length of the room. Keep your working triangle as tight as possible. This will make your space more efficient and easier to work in.
Choose streamlined, slimline appliances to save space. Consider appliances that can be built into cabinets or walls to keep the countertops clear. A mirrored or glossy finish for the cabinets can also help to make a small kitchen feel bigger by reflecting light around the room.
To further enhance the space, choose light colours for your walls and cabinets. Light shades can help to make a room feel larger and brighter.
Don’t forget to make the most of your vertical space. Use high-level shelving for rarely used items and make the most of the space under the sink with pull-out storage solutions.
Conclusion
Planning a kitchen layout for a UK terraced house can be a tricky task. It’s about making smart decisions and thinking creatively about the space you have. Whether you’re working with a small kitchen, incorporating a kitchen island, considering a side return extension, or creating an open-plan space, there’s a lot to think about.
Remember, a well-designed kitchen is about more than just good looks. It should be a functional space that makes cooking, eating, and socialising easy and enjoyable. So, take your time, do your research, and don’t be afraid to seek professional advice. With careful planning, you’ll be able to create a kitchen that’s perfect for your needs and complements your lifestyle.
A well-planned kitchen can be a joy to use and can add significant value to your home. So, whether you’re planning a complete kitchen overhaul or a few clever tweaks, take the time to plan your kitchen layout effectively. It’s an investment that will pay off for years to come.
Author: Harvey Jones | Image Credit: Harvey Jones
