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AIBU?

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Original poster

To turn a windowless room into a kitchen? Or should I add a window?

55 replies

OrangeCrushes · 16/06/2026 15:09

We are converting a reception room into a kitchen. The room has doors into a conservatory but no windows.

Photo of room attached. The window would go to the right of the chimney breast, where there are currently shelves.

Due to the narrow size of the room, we will have very limited wall space for units. I'm very torn between a desire for natural light and ventilation v. more useful kitchen space.

YABU = Add a window!
YANBU = cupboard space is priceless

To turn a windowless room into a kitchen? Or should I add a window?
OP posts:
665theneighborofthebeast · 16/06/2026 15:24

Yes to the window. You can move your radiator and have floor to ceiling cupboards along that wall. Surely that would allow you to have a window?
It would also visually tie in the light though the conservatory, really wow kitchen garden effect rather than compromise tunnel.

Henriettina · 16/06/2026 15:23

Window! I used to live in a house like that and it was dark. Especially once kitchen units are in and make it feel more cramped. I’ve seen some clever designs which have windows up high, or which have glass shelves in front of them, so you don’t lose too much storage.

PreachyPie · 16/06/2026 15:20

Definitely a window for light and ventilation.
The room doesn't look narrow?

SoManyTshirts · 16/06/2026 15:18

Remember you can’t have a gas hob in a windowless room. The kitchen is one thing I’d change about my house.

GrantMyWishes · 16/06/2026 15:13

You should definitely have a window in my opinion, I couldn't work in a dark kitchen like that, and we all have far too much kitchen stuff when it boils down to it, have a good clear out before you buy your cupboards, and be honest with yourself about how much you actually need, ie, do you really need 50 mugs, or 75 glasses, etc.