skip to main content

Stairs into open plan extension

Jackie Bullough

2 years ago

We would like to add an extension on to the back of the house and make it open plan, kitchen dining and lounge, however our stairs currently come down into our current dining room, Is it correct that building regs will not allow this unless you have a door between the kitchen area and the stairs??

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (2)

HU-872134222
2 years ago
I can't comment definitely, but we have open plan stairs into our dining room and are planning to knock through into the kitchen.

One of the kitchen companies flagged this as a possibility, but my understanding is that it applies if you have a second floor (so ground, first and second floors), and its to do with the fire risk. We double checked with our architect and have the final drawings as open plan stairs into the kitchen diner.

It's always best to check with an expert though. Most architects near us pop by for a no obligation chat at home where they can share ideas and you can decide who would be best.

Hope that helps a bit.
tamp75
2 years ago
I’ve heard of lots of different approaches to this to be honest. I think it can be permitted if you mitigate the risk, eg with wired in smoke & heat detectors & a decent sprinkler system. When we converted the loft to our bungalow with bedrooms, stairs & kitchen leading off a central hall, we had to have fire doors to the kitchen plus all bedrooms as the hall is the main means of escape should there be a fire. So it may depend on the overall layout of the rest of the property. Worth getting it checked out.
However, having stayed in a holiday let with stairs into an open plan area, I’d never have that in my own home due to the noise transfer from downstairs to upstairs - potentially a problem if you have young children in bed early while you have friends over, or teens up late while you’re trying to sleep, etc.
Related Discussions
Help layout & plans of my open plan kitchen diner & side extension
Q
Comments (13)
Thanks for these. Im not sure if we can do the extra corner bit for number five, but I do like the layout, it will depend on cost, also don't need two tv areas, as we have a front lounge in the house anyway. the office was supposed to be a mixed use room, as a playroom with kids storage and also an occasional bedroom, so sofa bed In there. I know many people have hobs and sinks on islands, but I just think i'll end up dumping things on there.. I have four in the family, two adults, two kids, but we have a lot of people round for entertaining and parties, so space is what I'm after, but was also looking for somewhere the kids can go out of the way from adults if need be. As for kitchen, the reason for having large larder is to put not only food/drink spare fridge in there, but also things we don't use all that often in the kitchen, equipment etc.. I like everything clean and hidden away. The office on number 5 would be separate anyway as this concept includes sliding doors, which fold into the wall, so only entrance would be from outside, not sure if I can afford these yet though. Please keep suggestions coming, or alternatives, all welcome as I can't visualise.. thanks
...See More
Advice please! Mid-terrace wraparound extension open / broken plan
Q
Comments (1)
Hi, once you have decided on a layout, we can provide you with a budget cost estimate. The budget cost estimate provides a detailed breakdown of works and expenses as well as highlighting potential areas where you can save money. If this is something of interest please send the plans and photos to hello@nestestimating.co.uk and we can provide you with a quote
...See More
Ground-floor planning advice for 1930 semi extension/open-plan
Q
Comments (13)
Just on the chimney point. We knocked through between our kitchen and small sitting room. We needed a structural engineer to specify the steel. as part of the work they took out a similar chimney and supported the chimney higher up with a diagonal steel. the whole job was £15k and the diagonal steel wasnt itemised but we had the wall taken out, new plaster throughout, lights, new floor, radiators etc included. so i guess a couple of thousand pounds for the chimney removal to first floor.
...See More
Design help for our open plan seating area of new extension.
Q
Comments (8)
Hi Joel, This sounds like an exciting project. Corner sofas can be imposing as you say. It might be best to consider the room as a whole and design the room with everything you would like to fit in. At The Living House we can help you to understand what is possible in the room practically as well as what will look great and fit in with your style. If you need some tailored advice for this room or any room in your home we would love to help you. You can see more about us and how we work here. - Becky
...See More

Sponsored

More Discussions

has anyone converting old kitchen into loo/ boot room/ utility???

2

Internal door finish - which would you choose?

5

Extension visualisation help

2

Adding a hallway

2

Rebuild porch advice

2

United Kingdom

Tailor my experience with cookies

Houzz uses cookies and similar technologies to personalise my experience, serve me relevant content, and improve Houzz products and services. By clicking ‘Accept’ I agree to this, as further described in the Houzz Cookie Policy. I can reject non-essential cookies by clicking ‘Manage Preferences’.