Kitchen bench extension

11 years ago

I would like to extend my kitchen bench because I have a very long narrow kitchen which won't allow for bar stools as it is. There is an empty space at the end of the bench which would be ideal for an extension but I am unsure of the design and materials to use. I would like to allow for 4 stools and the area available is roughly 3 meters long. Any advice or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

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PRO

Lawson Carpentry & Joinery

11 years ago

Been a carpenter and never having enough storage why don't you use two wall units back to back to make double sided storage with say 1.5m space between the units and the existing kitchen and then run a timber worktop on top. this would give you seating at either side for 4 and also a space at the end.

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Comments (8)

PRO
Feioi
11 years ago
You could either add another material to the end of the island like this:

Or for a lower budget option, purchase a bar table to sit on the end such as one of these:
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@kazzh Adding a wall as suggested by HU won't allow for the intention of an open plan with the living room as and adding a wall by the current opening will remove a lot of afternoon light from the living room. Adding the laundry to the pantry is certainly possible, it's an idea that has been considered, but we didn't know a) how possible it was to create a new waste pipe and where to run to, possibly the bathroom next door. b) how to position the pantry area to consider a reduced length of waste pipe to avoid a mass of disruption of other units ie cutting holes in them. Moving the patio door isn't impossible, as we can just brick up the current and add a window, then add a patio door to the extension. Thank you so much so far!
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minnie101
11 years ago
I would either go for Feioi's first option with either the same worktop and a different coloured base (maybe picking up one of your bright colours) or a wooden, zinc, concrete etc top with the same base (if available). I think I personally though would add a round bar table set a few feet away from the island with scandi or mid century stools in different colours to break up the length of the room and bring the colour to that end of the room
PRO
MY Wood Designs Ltd
11 years ago
Great ideas from everyone above.

However, anyone sitting at the end would always be turning themselves sideways to see/chat with whoever is in the kitchen.

How about choosing one of the ideas already mentioned but the furthest point away from the kitchen, on the new additional piece, to be L-shaped so that those sat at the end are looking directly down the length towards the kitchen. This will also break the linear feel.
PRO
Stella Michael
11 years ago
What do you want to use this extra seating for? Is it just for casual chit chat while someone is cooking? Do you need the extra benchtop? Do you want to eat meals here? I think that all makes a difference.

You have room for a medium round/oval table in that space which may be more comfortable and flexible. It could be a more casual seating area where people could face the kitchen, I see your dining table at the far end means people have their back to the kitchen.

If you really want to extend the bench, I like Feioi and minnie101 ideas re using a different material and more rounded. I would go for wood or colourful laminate and you could have a more rounded/wider end so some people could sit on the end, facing whoever is in the kitchen. A colour would look great, the yellow, orange from your painting would make it zing and look fab! Same if you decide to get a table, make it fun.

Beware cold materials like marble or metal as people will be more likely to be leaning on them and those are cold on your arms. I find this even in restaurants with marble/metal tables.

Personally I don't like sitting on stools and prefer chairs where your feel can touch the ground, much more comfortable so you could consider making the extended bench a lower level.

Remember to post 'after' photos!
bjtippner
Original Author
11 years ago
This feedback is so helpful. Thank you everyone for their suggestions and advice. I think my photo is a little deceptive. The space in question in roughly 3 meters wide so whatever is added can't be too wide as it will obstruct the walkway to the lounge. I absolutely love the idea of a round bench at the end to break up the long narrow feel of the space. I'm very cautious when it comes to colour. I originally had a custom concrete bench quoted but it was VERY expensive. I think I'm now leaning towards a stone bench in either grey or black with a rough finish. The bench would be for casual chit chat and for the kids to eat dinner and do homework while I potter. I will most definitely post some after photos. Thanks again!!!
PRO
MY Wood Designs Ltd
11 years ago
Whatever option you choose, perhaps put it on suitable casters......but ones with a rubber outer. That way, you can have the best of both worlds in giving you the option to turn it around to "face" the kitchen and then turn it back to give you the flow into your lounge. It doesn't have to be too big either.
PRO
Stella Michael
11 years ago
Mmmm ... stone (& concrete) sound a little cold and rough surface not very skin friendly, good that you are looking at all different options. Can't wait to see how it ends up!

Kitchen bench extension

Lawson Carpentry & Joinery

Comments (8)

Feioi

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minnie101

MY Wood Designs Ltd

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Kitchen bench extension

Lawson Carpentry & Joinery

Comments (8)

Feioi

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minnie101

MY Wood Designs Ltd

Stella Michael

bjtippnerOriginal Author

MY Wood Designs Ltd

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