Stylish, functional, and comfortable kitchens have become the new norm. They are no longer just a space for cooking meals, but also venues for family gatherings, social interactions, and even remote work. How you arrange your kitchen will significantly influence how well it fulfils these multiple roles.
This article will guide you through the process of planning a kitchen layout in a UK terraced house, ensuring maximum efficiency and comfort.
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Start with a Comprehensive Assessment of Your Current Kitchen
Before diving into the world of kitchen designs and ideas, it’s necessary to assess your current kitchen layout. This will help you understand what’s working and what’s not, and it’ll provide a solid foundation for your redesign.
Start by evaluating your kitchen’s current size and shape. Is it small and compact, or do you have a large open area to play with? How does it connect to the dining area, if at all?
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Take into consideration the locations of doors, windows, and any structural elements like load-bearing walls that can’t be moved. Additionally, consider the functionality of your current kitchen. Are your appliances outdated or placed in awkward spots? Is there enough storage space?
Lastly, consider the lighting. Does your kitchen have natural light, or does it rely mainly on artificial sources? Good lighting is essential in a kitchen, and it’s something that can be improved in the redesign.
Consider the Kitchen Work Triangle
The kitchen work triangle refers to the ideal positioning of the sink, stove, and refrigerator – the three main kitchen work areas. It’s a concept that’s been around for decades, but it still holds value today.
The idea is that these three elements should be close enough for efficiency while cooking and cleaning, but not so close that they intrude on each other’s space. The total distance between these three points should be no more than 26 feet and no less than 12 feet.
This concept can be a little difficult to implement in a small terraced house kitchen, where space is often at a premium. However, with a bit of creative thinking and careful planning, it can be done.
Think About the Layouts That Will Suit Your Space
There are several different types of kitchen layouts, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. The one that will work best for you will depend on the shape and size of your kitchen, and how you intend to use it.
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The Galley Kitchen: This is a great option for small terraced houses, as it makes the most of limited space. It features two parallel walls of cabinets and appliances, with a walkway in between.
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The L-Shaped Kitchen: This layout utilizes one corner of the room, with cabinets and appliances on two adjacent walls. It’s a popular choice as it allows for plenty of workspace and storage, and it can also accommodate a small dining table or island.
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The U-Shaped Kitchen: This is a versatile layout that works well in both small and large spaces. It offers plenty of cabinet and counter space, and can accommodate an island if the room is large enough.
Determine the Best Place for Storage
Storage is a critical component of kitchen design. In a terraced house, where space may be limited, clever storage solutions are especially important.
Consider your current storage situation. Do you have enough space for your everyday items? Is there ample room for your pots, pans, and crockery? If not, how can you create more storage in your new design?
One idea is to extend your cabinets up to the ceiling. This will provide additional storage space, and it can also make the room feel taller and more spacious.
Another idea is to install an island with built-in storage. This can be a great solution if you have space for an island, as it provides extra storage and workspace.
Don’t Forget About Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in the kitchen. It not only helps you see what you’re doing while cooking and cleaning, but it can also create atmosphere and ambience.
Consider a mix of different lighting sources. Overhead lighting is essential, but you might also want to add task lighting over the stove, sink, and counter areas. You could also consider accent lighting to highlight certain features, such as open shelves or glass-fronted cabinets.
In small kitchens, natural light can be a game-changer. If your kitchen lacks windows, consider a skylight, or even a glass door leading to the garden. This can bring in much-needed natural light and make your kitchen feel bigger and more open.
In conclusion, planning a kitchen layout in a UK terraced house for maximum efficiency requires careful consideration of the space, functionality, and lighting. With the right layout, clever storage solutions, and thoughtful lighting design, you can create a kitchen that is efficient, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing.
Gain Inspiration from the Experts
After assessing your current kitchen and determining what improvements need to be made, it’s time to get inspired. Look for kitchen extension ideas from home improvement magazines, interior design websites, and social media platforms like Pinterest. You can even consult with professional kitchen designers who have experience in redesigning terraced house kitchens.
Do take note of the consistent elements you are attracted to. Are they bright, light-filled spaces? Or do you lean more towards dark and cosy atmospheres? Do you prefer a minimalist, modern design, or a homely, rustic theme?
Image credits in these sources will also help you scout for possible kitchen light fixtures, cabinet styles, paint colours, or floor materials.
Remember, the goal is not to replicate an exact image from a photo. Instead, gain inspiration and make your design a unique blend of your personal taste and the practical needs of your kitchen.
Incorporate Open Plan Concepts
In traditional terraced houses, rooms are often compartmentalised and isolated from each other. However, the modern trend leans towards an open-plan kitchen and living room, allowing for a seamless flow of space.
This layout has several advantages. Firstly, it allows for more natural light to enter and brighten the space. It also creates an illusion of a larger area, which is beneficial for small kitchens in terraced houses. Lastly, it fosters better social dynamics as you can cook, eat, and interact with family or guests in the living room all at the same time.
However, implementing an open plan might require knocking down walls. It’s recommended to consult a professional to ensure the walls are not load-bearing before proceeding.
Conclusion: A Complete Guide to Planning an Efficient Kitchen Layout
Ultimately, planning a kitchen layout in a UK terraced house requires a combination of practical thinking and creative inspiration. You need to evaluate your current kitchen to understand what changes need to be made, and at the same time, envision what your ideal kitchen would look like.
Whether it’s a galley, L-shaped or U-shaped kitchen layout, the key is to make the most of your available space without compromising on functionality or aesthetics. This includes clever storage solutions, efficient placement of appliances and a well-thought-out lighting plan.
Adopting an open-plan kitchen design can also help in making your kitchen feel larger and brighter. And lastly, don’t forget to find inspiration and ideas from experts, image credits and kitchen extension articles.
With careful planning and good design practices, you are well on your way to creating a kitchen that is not only efficient and functional but also a comfortable and inviting space that truly feels like home.
