How small is small? And what do you consider essential appliances? Apart from fridge, cooker, sink?

This is a helpful podcast if you are thinking about what size of kitchen island you want or what to go for: https://shows.acast.com/love-your-kitchen/episodes/exploring-function-over-aesthetics-with-amnda-hughes

We just repainted some doors in a rustoleum kitchen cupboard paint which is a darker colour but it was painted on with a short hair roller and you can't tell its been painted by hand ie so they might not use a brush as such but still a roller would be classed as hand painted vs spray painted (if that makes sense). Nightmare re the scratches though!  I would have expected them to send new units/doors to replace the ones you have now and then the old ones get sent back once the new ones are ready. That's what happened with our old kitchen ie the company we bought off got the manufacturer to send new ones as they had someone come and inspect them and agreed that they hadn't been prepped properly as the paint came off the edges. That way we weren't left without kitchen doors for months!

Hi, Extending your kitchen into the dining room to create a kitchen diner is a great way to open up the space and improve functionality. Consider the layout to ensure smooth flow between the two areas, possibly incorporating an island or breakfast bar to divide the space. Lighting is key, so use a mix of task and ambient lighting, along with natural light through windows or doors. Ensure design cohesion by choosing complementary flooring, cabinetry, and colours across both areas. Thoughtful storage solutions, such as built-in cabinetry or a sideboard, can help maximise space. Be sure to budget for structural work and check for necessary permits to comply with regulations. A kitchen-diner extension offers more room for cooking, dining, and socialising, enhancing both the functionality and feel of your home.