Are you tired of feeling cramped in your small terraced house kitchen? Do you dream of a bright, airy, and modern cooking space that flows seamlessly into your living area? Look no further!
In this post, we’ll share 14 inspiring kitchen extension ideas specifically designed for small terraced houses, featuring open plan living and stunning bi-fold doors.
From clever space-saving solutions to stylish design inspiration, we’ll show you how to transform your humble abode into a stunning kitchen oasis that’s perfect for cooking, entertaining, and making memories with loved ones.
Idea #1: Wraparound Extension for Maximum Space
When it comes to small terraced houses, every inch of space counts. A wraparound extension is a clever way to maximize the available space and create a more open-plan living area.
By extending the kitchen outwards on multiple sides, you can create a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors. This design approach also allows for more natural light to flood into the kitchen, making it feel brighter and more spacious.
To make the most of a wraparound extension, consider the following design elements:
- Use large windows and sliding glass doors to create a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors
- Incorporate a roof lantern or skylight to bring in additional natural light
- Choose a light-colored palette to reflect light and make the space feel larger
- Consider adding a small outdoor seating area or patio to create a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors
Idea #2: Sliding Glass Doors for Seamless Transitions
Sliding glass doors are a game-changer when it comes to small terraced house kitchen extensions. Not only do they provide an unobstructed view of the outdoors, but they also create a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors.
This design approach is perfect for small kitchens, as it makes the space feel larger and more connected to the outdoors.
When choosing sliding glass doors, consider the following:
- Opt for slim frames to minimize visual obstruction
- Choose doors with a low threshold to create a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors
- Consider adding a Juliet balcony or small outdoor seating area to create a sense of connection to the outdoors
- Use sliding glass doors in combination with bi-fold doors to create a truly open-plan living space
Idea #3: Compact Kitchen Layouts for Small Terraces
Small terraced houses often come with compact kitchens, which can be a challenge to design. However, with a few clever layout tweaks, you can create a functional and stylish kitchen that meets your needs.
Compact kitchen layouts often involve clever use of vertical space, hidden storage, and multi-functional furniture.
To create a compact kitchen layout that works, consider the following:
- Opt for wall-mounted cabinets and shelves to maximize vertical space
- Choose a compact kitchen island or cart with built-in storage
- Incorporate hidden storage solutions, such as pull-out pantries or hidden drawers
- Consider a galley kitchen layout, which is perfect for small, narrow spaces
Idea #4: Bi-Fold Doors with Skylights for Natural Light
Bi-fold doors are a popular choice for kitchen extensions, and for good reason. They provide an unobstructed view of the outdoors, create a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors, and allow for maximum natural light to flood into the kitchen.
When combined with skylights, bi-fold doors can create a truly stunning kitchen space that feels bright, airy, and connected to the outdoors.
To make the most of bi-fold doors with skylights, consider the following:
- Choose bi-fold doors with slim frames to minimize visual obstruction
- Opt for skylights with a flat rooflight or lantern roof to bring in additional natural light
- Consider adding a roof lantern or skylight above the kitchen island or peninsula to create a sense of drama and visual interest
- Use bi-fold doors in combination with sliding glass doors to create a truly open-plan living space
Idea #5: Open Plan Living with a Twist: The Galley Kitchen
Open-plan living is a popular design approach for small terraced houses, but it can be challenging to create a functional kitchen space within an open-plan layout.
The galley kitchen is a clever solution to this problem, providing a compact and functional kitchen space that still feels connected to the rest of the living area.
To create a successful galley kitchen, consider the following:
- Choose a narrow kitchen layout with a central island or peninsula
- Opt for wall-mounted cabinets and shelves to maximize vertical space
- Incorporate hidden storage solutions, such as pull-out pantries or hidden drawers
- Consider adding a breakfast bar or seating area to create a sense of connection to the rest of the living area
Idea #6: Extending into the Side Return for Extra Space
Many small terraced houses have a side return, a narrow alleyway that runs along the side of the property. Extending into the side return is a clever way to create additional space and connect the kitchen to the rest of the living area.
This design approach can also provide an opportunity to add additional natural light and create a sense of flow between indoors and outdoors.
To make the most of extending into the side return, consider the following:
- Choose a narrow extension that complements the existing architecture of the property
- Opt for large windows and sliding glass doors to create a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors
- Consider adding a roof lantern or skylight to bring in additional natural light
- Use the side return extension to create a sense of flow between the kitchen and the rest of the living area
Idea #7: Kitchen Island with Built-In Seating for Socializing
Kitchen islands are a popular design element in modern kitchens, providing additional counter space, storage, and seating. In small terraced houses, a kitchen island with built-in seating can be a game-changer, providing a social hub that connects the kitchen to the rest of the living area.
To create a successful kitchen island with built-in seating, consider the following:
- Choose a compact kitchen island with a built-in breakfast bar or seating area
- Opt for a kitchen island with hidden storage solutions, such as pull-out pantries or hidden drawers
- Consider adding a pendant light or skylight above the kitchen island to create a sense of drama and visual interest
- Use the kitchen island as a social hub, connecting the kitchen to the rest of the living area.
Idea #8: Floor-to-Ceiling Bi-Fold Doors for Unobstructed Views
Floor-to-ceiling bi-fold doors are a stunning design element that can completely transform a small terraced house kitchen extension.
By installing bi-fold doors that stretch from the floor to the ceiling, you can create an unobstructed view of the outdoors, making the space feel larger and more connected to nature.
To make the most of floor-to-ceiling bi-fold doors, consider the following:
- Choose doors with slim frames to minimize visual obstruction
- Opt for doors with a low threshold to create a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors
- Consider adding a Juliet balcony or small outdoor seating area to create a sense of connection to the outdoors
- Use floor-to-ceiling bi-fold doors in combination with sliding glass doors to create a truly open-plan living space
Idea #9: Small but Mighty: Compact Kitchen Extensions
Small terraced houses often come with compact kitchens, which can be a challenge to design. However, with a few clever design tweaks, you can create a functional and stylish kitchen extension that meets your needs. Compact kitchen extensions often involve clever use of vertical space, hidden storage, and multi-functional furniture.
To create a successful compact kitchen extension, consider the following:
- Opt for wall-mounted cabinets and shelves to maximize vertical space
- Choose a compact kitchen island or cart with built-in storage
- Incorporate hidden storage solutions, such as pull-out pantries or hidden drawers
- Consider a galley kitchen layout, which is perfect for small, narrow spaces
Idea #10: Creating a Sense of Flow with Matching Flooring
When it comes to small terraced house kitchen extensions, creating a sense of flow between the kitchen and the rest of the living area is crucial. One way to achieve this is by using matching flooring throughout the space. This design approach can create a sense of continuity and make the space feel larger.
To create a sense of flow with matching flooring, consider the following:
- Choose a flooring material that complements the existing architecture of the property
- Opt for a light-colored flooring material to reflect light and make the space feel larger
- Consider adding a rug or mat to define different areas within the space
- Use matching flooring to create a sense of continuity between the kitchen and the rest of the living area
Idea #11: The Power of Mirrors: Creating the Illusion of Space
Mirrors are a clever design element that can create the illusion of space in small terraced house kitchens. By strategically placing mirrors throughout the space, you can create the illusion of a larger kitchen and make the space feel more spacious.
To make the most of mirrors in your kitchen extension, consider the following:
- Place a mirror opposite a window to reflect natural light and make the space feel brighter
- Use a large mirror above a kitchen island or peninsula to create the illusion of a larger kitchen
- Consider adding a mirrored backsplash to create a sense of depth and visual interest
- Use mirrors to create the illusion of a larger kitchen and make the space feel more spacious
Idea #12: Bringing the Outdoors In: Greenery and Natural Materials
Small terraced house kitchens can often feel disconnected from the outdoors. However, by incorporating greenery and natural materials into your kitchen extension, you can bring the outdoors in and create a sense of connection to nature.
To bring the outdoors in, consider the following:
- Add some greenery, such as potted plants or a living wall, to bring in a touch of nature
- Choose natural materials, such as wood or stone, for your kitchen cabinets and countertops
- Incorporate natural textiles, such as wicker or rattan, into your kitchen furniture and decor
- Use natural light to create a sense of connection to the outdoors
Idea #13: Zoning the Space: Defining Areas without Walls
Small terraced house kitchens often lack defined areas, which can make the space feel cluttered and chaotic. However, by using clever design elements, you can zone the space and define different areas without using walls.
To zone the space, consider the following:
- Use a kitchen island or peninsula to define different areas within the space
- Incorporate a breakfast bar or seating area to create a social hub
- Choose a rug or mat to define different areas within the space
- Use lighting to create different ambiances and define different areas within the space
Idea #14: Maximizing Storage: Clever Cabinetry and Shelving
Small terraced house kitchens often lack storage, which can make the space feel cluttered and chaotic. However, by using clever cabinetry and shelving, you can maximize storage and create a more functional kitchen space.
To maximize storage, consider the following:
- Choose cabinets with hidden storage solutions, such as pull-out pantries or hidden drawers
- Opt for wall-mounted shelves and cabinets to maximize vertical space
- Incorporate a kitchen cart or island with built-in storage
- Use clever storage solutions, such as a pegboard or a utensil organizer, to keep clutter at bay
FAQs
Q: What is the average cost of a kitchen extension?
A: The average cost of a kitchen extension can vary widely depending on the size of the extension, the materials used, and the location of the property. However, on average, a kitchen extension can cost anywhere from £20,000 to £50,000 or more.
Q: How long does a kitchen extension take to complete?
A: The length of time it takes to complete a kitchen extension can vary depending on the complexity of the project and the number of professionals involved. However, on average, a kitchen extension can take anywhere from 2-6 months to complete.
Q: Do I need planning permission for a kitchen extension?
A: In most cases, you will need to obtain planning permission from your local authority before beginning a kitchen extension project. However, if your extension is considered a “permitted development,” you may not need planning permission. It’s always best to check with your local authority to determine if planning permission is required.
Q: How can I make my kitchen extension more energy-efficient?
A: There are several ways to make your kitchen extension more energy-efficient, including installing energy-efficient appliances, using sustainable building materials, and incorporating natural light and ventilation into your design.
Q: Can I DIY a kitchen extension?
A: While it’s possible to DIY certain aspects of a kitchen extension, such as decorating or installing fixtures and fittings, it’s generally not recommended to attempt a kitchen extension project on your own. Kitchen extensions often require complex construction work, electrical and plumbing installations, and other specialized skills that are best left to professionals.
Q: How can I ensure that my kitchen extension is designed to meet my needs?
A: To ensure that your kitchen extension is designed to meet your needs, it’s essential to work with a professional designer or architect who can help you create a custom design that meets your specific requirements and budget. Be sure to communicate your needs and preferences clearly, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or request changes during the design process.
