I’m struggling to find a way to have a kitchen/island (really would like an island to have useable counterspace), generous dining table (seating for at least 6 people) and a sitting area in the same room if we don’t open up the wall between the current front and back living rooms. Would it make more sense to have part of the garage incorporated into the kitchen? There is a slight difference in floor level though between the garage and kitchen (Step down into the garage). Or block up the current kitchen door and have the access to a dining/kitchen through the current back living room space and then somehow fit in a dining table and seating area?

Hi Isapa Bwe, You have such an amazing space to work with and what a great idea to knock through and make better use of the space you have! I have quickly put this together as just an idea to consider. I actually think with the right planning and getting the right dimensions that the front room that currently forms your current kitchen could be a dual purpose room to save the cost of knocking through/separating the space. Boot rooms are such a beautiful way of holding all of your families coats and boots you could even get a carpenter involved in building something for you or even have a look at Ikea hacks for this - There are lots of ideas on Pinterest! I have added another room (again this would be subject to space availability and how much room you would need in your garage) But I think you could even get a walk in pantry in here as there would potentially not be a lot of storage/work top space in the kitchen. I have added some pinterest inspo for both rooms below. I do really like Jonathans above idea about moving the stairs round I think that while this might be costly it would really open up the hallway and allow for a large door to give that real wow factor when you walk from the hallway into your new kitchen! p.s Im also obsessed with bifold doors or any door that allows you to open a whole side up - Not only does it allow for so much natural light but its great for when you're entertaining! I hope that helps - I absolutely love layout and floor planning so happy to answer any questions or give any further assistance if you need it! Good luck! Danielle xx

Hi Emma D, we are an affordable online interior design company and we have written a blog recently about open plan rooms and mistakes to avoid which you may find useful. Here is the link if you would like to take look - https://www.thelivinghouse.co.uk/blog-interior-design-tips/10-design-mistakes-to-avoid-with-an-open-plan-room

I’m just having a new extension built but unsure which end of the room to locate the kitchen for the most useful / practical layout to also make use of the natural light from velux windows and bifolds - original plan was that the kitchen would be at the back of the room in an L shape with breakfast bar but I’m now rethinking that. I’m not really fussed about separate dining table if seating is incorporated into the design of the kitchen? I have a dog and spend a lot of time outside in the garden.