6 Modern kitchen extension ideas in Dorset

A kitchen extension is one way to acquire additional living space on your property and improve its value. You can optimise the amount of space acquired with the right kitchen design ideas.

Before choosing any extension design, it's always crucial to ensure you've acquired planning permission if the project doesn't fall under permitted development rights. Here are several modern kitchen extension ideas in Dorset that you can implement for your home.

1. Consider an open-plan kitchen design

Open-plan kitchen designs have become quite popular, especially for the airy and bright feel they add to your home. This makes it an ideal solution for homes with limited kitchen space. It gets even better if you install roof lights to allow natural light into your living space. With an open-plan design, you can install a modern kitchen island that would be multifunctional. It can have a sink and extra worktop space and you can place bar stools on one end and use it as a breakfast bar. According to Clara Annesley, a kitchen extension designer of Proficiency, you can easily get a bespoke design for your kitchen extension with the right building company..

2. Add more character with a rear extension

Apart from adding character, you can get an aesthetically pleasing new space with a rear kitchen extension. Such a design provides you with adequate space for open-plan living. You can use some of the space as the dining area and place a modern dining table to suit your decor theme. Adding roof lights and full-length glass doors can make your open-plan kitchen look brighter and spacious. The glass doors allow you to enjoy nature's beauty in the comfort of your home.

3. Consider a side return extension

A side return extension allows you to extend the side of your property and acquire more floor space. It's a perfect way to get more kitchen space on your terraced house or semi-detached property. However, with a side extension, you might need a Party Wall Agreement and also ensure you get planning permission. You can use the extra space as a separate dining area that seamlessly blends with your kitchen. You can make a statement by adding an antique table to your dining room.

4. Ensure your kitchen has proper lighting

Whether it’s a campervan kitchen interior or your house kitchen, proper lighting makes a space look brighter and more spacious than it is. With a kitchen extension, there are many ways to ensure you have enough natural and artificial lighting. You can consider adding skylights or huge windows for more natural lighting. The huge windows will also allow fresh air into your home. There are different types of artificial lighting you can consider such as warm white ceiling lights, accent lighting and pendant lights. If you have a modern kitchen island, you can install the pendant light fixtures to create an outstanding focal point.

5. Install glazed sliding doors

Incorporating glazed sliding doors into your kitchen extension design is another idea you can consider. Glazed or French doors allow natural light into your living space and can seamlessly blend your interior with the outdoors of your home. For more privacy, you can always opt for frosted doors with a contemporary touch. If you want to save on space on your ground floor, sliding doors are a better solution considering bifold doors often take up too much space when they're open.

6. Consider a glass kitchen extension

Apart from being aesthetically pleasing, a glass kitchen extension provides a seamless transition to your garden. It will also ensure your kitchen space has plenty of natural light. You can use this space as your dining area or consider an open plan kitchen layout You can also choose to add a pitched roof to the glass extension. There are many modern kitchen extension ideas in Dorset and the right builder will help you make the right choice.