It feels a little cramped to me as your access to the bath is so restricted. I’ve just put this layout together that might be worth a try. (it would require a slightly smaller bath) if you can, get some boxes in there to represent furniture and move around it before committing to anything. Also, are you planning a freestanding bath and tap?? this might look squashed in and therefore make the room feel smaller (also really hard to keep it clean round the back) I would consider a back to wall bath with the space you have. re towel rail, bit stumped on that too, could it go behind the door??

Sounds fantastic. I'd love to explore this with you. I once had a client ask me to copy their masterbedroom from their holiday home in Florida! So I have some experience of designing American style masterbedroom suites into UK homes!! Though their house configuration sadly didn't allow for an exact replica and even more sadly they didn't offer to fly me out to Florida for a recce and more in depth research!! I suggest that you create a clear picture of how you'd love to live. Designing a vision of your life and lifestyle comes first. From that we start to look at floorplans. You can make a start on this for free with my Design Your Home Vision Checklist here; https://www.i-architect.co.uk/dyhvchecklist.html For helpful videos watch my YouTube Channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@iarchitect Best wishes with your home redesign! Jane chartered architect, eco-home and conservation area specialist www.i-architect.co.uk

As you say there is a radiator on the left then I would put the sofa against that wall and the tv opposite. You don't really want it (the sofa) in front of your french doors. As your wc is opposite the designated area for dining the door swing takes at least 800mm off the available space. If you changed the wc door to a sliding one it would help with space. I wouldn't want my dining table so close to the wc. I would consider combining the lounge/dining with your furniture as the space for the table is very tight. Try it though. It might work. Make scale cutouts if you don't use sketchup and play with the layout. I usually find the previous house's furniture seldom works in the new house.

Hi Sayada, Congratulations on your new home! It sounds like a lovely space with a lot of potential for both functionality and flexibility. It’s great that you’re thinking through the layout carefully, especially with the unique needs of your gatherings and the practical considerations like cooking and privacy. Here are some suggestions that might help: 1. Open Plan vs. Semi-Open Plan: Since you’re concerned about the open-plan layout and the mess/noise from cooking, a semi-open plan could be the perfect compromise. Your idea of extending the kitchen/diner and creating an L-shaped extension sounds ideal. You could: Close off the kitchen: Use a combination of glass partitions or sliding pocket doors. This allows you to visually separate the kitchen when needed but still lets natural light flow through. Dedicated Laundry Space: If space allows, include a small laundry or utility area within the kitchen or tucked into the L-extension. This keeps everything organised and hidden from the main entertaining space. 2. Archway with Bi-Fold Doors: The arch opening between the living room and diner sounds like a great way to create flow while maintaining the option to separate the spaces. Bi-fold doors are perfect for this—they can open fully for large gatherings but close off the space for smaller, cosier settings or when you want to reduce noise from one area to another. 3. Kitchen Layout for Large Gatherings: Since you frequently host large gatherings, consider: A Large Island or Peninsula: This could act as a serving area or buffet station, separating the cooking zone from the dining/entertaining area. Double Ovens and Extra Storage: If space permits, incorporating double ovens and additional storage for serving dishes and cookware will be a game-changer for hosting large groups. Separate Prep Area: If possible, extend the kitchen further (as you suggested) to create a dedicated prep or catering area. This will allow you to manage cooking without disturbing guests. 4. Garden Utilisation: With a 100-foot-long garden, you have ample space to extend without losing much outdoor functionality. Consider: Decking: Retain or extend your deck area near the house as an additional seating area or outdoor dining spot for gatherings. Flow to Summer House: Since you already have a summer house and garage at the end of the garden, think about creating a pathway or covered pergola for a seamless connection between the house and these spaces. This could be especially useful if you plan to convert the garage into a guest studio later. 5. Future Garage Conversion: When you're ready to convert the garage into a studio or guest space, it could serve multiple functions—such as a rental, guest room, or even a separate space for hosting smaller events. Since cars can’t access it, using it for living or recreational space is a great idea. Ensure proper insulation and consider adding plumbing if you’ll need a small kitchenette or bathroom for long-term use. 6. Ventilation and Odor Control: Since you cook a lot of spicy food, good ventilation is key to prevent odors from spreading through the open areas. You might want to: Invest in a high-powered extractor hood. Consider ducted systems that vent outside rather than recirculating air inside. Ensure good airflow by incorporating windows, skylights, or even a small ventilation system in the L-extension. 7. Long-Term Flexibility: It’s smart to design with future flexibility in mind. If your needs change, having spaces that can serve multiple purposes (e.g., living room for family use and formal gatherings, kitchen as a prep zone and social hub) will ensure your home adapts with you. Hope this helps clarify things and gives you a few options to consider! It sounds like you’re creating a beautiful, functional space that will work well for both daily life and your larger gatherings. Best of luck with the council submission—fingers crossed everything goes smoothly! 😊