These days, kitchens have become so much more than a simple space to cook and eat together. Becoming the main focal point of the quintessential British family home, the trend of open plan living ideally connects with how we use our kitchen spaces as the ultimate spot to socialise in the house.
The majority of homeowners wish that their kitchen space was larger, so it’s hardly surprising that new kitchens top the UK’s most popular home improvement chart. Therefore, building a kitchen in a conservatory makes even more sense; bathing the space in glorious light and making it appear even larger.
Homes in Willington, Bedford can particularly benefit from building kitchens in conservatories, considering the wonderful amounts of space that properties in this quaint English village have at their disposal.
Do homes in Willington, Bedford need planning permission to build a kitchen extension?
Conservatories or other single-story rear extensions fall under ‘permitted development’ rules, as long as they do not extend beyond the rear of an attached home by more than 3m or by 4m for a detached home.
For further clarification on this subject, see: Do I need planning permission for a conservatory?
I’m building a new kitchen in my Willington home – do I need building regulation approval?
Kitchen refits generally do not require building regulation approval, although drainage or electrical works included in the revamp may require building regulation permission. If this is the case, or your home is a listed building or located in a conservation area, it’s advisable to contact your local authorities planning department to be 100% sure before beginning any work.
Bedford Borough Council planning applications
Tips for Willington, Bedford homeowners interested in building a kitchen conservatory
- South facing area?
Try to build your kitchen conservatory in a north facing position. South facing conservatories make great sunrooms, but you must consider that as a kitchen space it may not be practical due to the amount of time spent there as well as the heat factor. So, try to build in a north-facing or mostly shaded position.
- Kitchen work triangle!
Considering the ‘kitchen work triangle’ design concept is incredibly important when planning the initial layout of your kitchen conservatory. This approach follows the principle that the three main kitchen workstations – the sink, the fridge and the cooker – should form a triangle to optimise functionality and efficiency.
- Storage!
Don’t get caught up in the excitement of the build and be left with a stunning kitchen conservatory that’s missing practical storage solutions! By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail – so make sure you plan ahead.
- Heat and ventilation!
Recognising the importance of ensuring adequate heating and ventilation, e.g. vents and extractor fans, will allow you to avoid frustrating, time-consuming and expensive changes further down the line.
- Privacy!
Constructed mainly from glass, consider the importance of retaining your privacy as well as maintaining the temperature of your new kitchen. This can be done with the use of stylish blinds, curtains and/or solar control glass.
For a detailed guide on conservatory types, take a look at this guide from Which? featuring our images.
Enhance the heart of your Willington home with a dazzling kitchen conservatory
Your home may already have a conservatory that you’d like to upgrade, you could be looking for a completely new conservatory to go with your new kitchen or you may even be thinking about building a kitchen in an orangery. Contact us today and let’s explore the options together to maximise your kitchen space for the better.
