Transforming your home and improving the sense of space doesn’t always mean you need an extension. A few good friends have recently embarked on projects that prove just that!
Case Study 1
When you love where you live and an extension comes in over budget, sometimes a reconfiguration can actually create the extra space you need.
Moving the stairs allowed two smaller living spaces to become one large, light and airy space that enhanced existing features like the ornate fireplace and created uninterrupted views from the front to the back of the property.
Having the stairs as part of your living space removes the need for a corridor.* Using large lower treads make a stair feel like an integrated feature. And simple glass balustrades or screens enhance the feeling of light and space.
Moving the bathroom upstairs and improving the landing was an essential part of the design. When you want a bath and a separate shower but are lacking sufficient space, think outside the box and consider a bath in the bedroom, giving a boutique hotel feel at home!
A galley kitchen can be made to feel bigger by introducing bifold doors to an adjacent courtyard space. In the summer, you get the ultimate inside-outside space and in the winter, you still feel the sense of space from the extensive glazing and the view of the courtyard.
Know your market. Research house prices in your area and consider what may appeal to future owners. But always remember that its just as important to enjoy your home and make it work for you.
*Subject to building regulation requirements.
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Case Study 2
When something about the layout of your house isn’t quite working and you need a new kitchen, it could be the perfect time to consider a reconfiguration.
Switching the principle rooms was key to this design.
The former snug/lounge will be the new kitchen-dining space (with a spangly new kitchen!). And the former kitchen-dining will be the new lounge.
The new location of the kitchen allows it to benefit from bifold doors directly onto the garden, which also has the added benefit of making better use of the garden.
By changing the ‘front room’ (formerly the kitchen-dining), into the lounge, the lounge will benefit from the more formal proportions and traditional character windows.
Two large openings either side of the existing fireplace adjacent to the new kitchen will allow the central room to be connected to the kitchen-dining area, which as with most families, is the heart of the home.
The change in level between these two spaces will create zones but finishes and sight-lines will connect them. The full width steps in each opening will inevitably become perfect perches for the kids and adults alike.
The under-used utility will now be accessed from the kitchen (as opposed to the living room) and double as a pantry (Oh, the dream!)
The downstairs toilet will be much more easily accessed in the new layout and the improved access point to the dedicated cloakroom (The other dream!) will make it much more practical to use.
Plus a secret hinged door! …an added bit of delight…