My kitchen needs a complete overhaul - new floor as current one is wonky, new layout from l-shape to u-shape, new kitchen door, new electrics etc. It is only about 2.8 x 2.6m but we will need to save to get it done so it can't be done immediately, which gives me lots of time to plan and ask advice from kitchen experts here!
The kitchen is accessed via the dining room in a typical Victorian terrace. I'm hoping to remove the wall that separates the kitchen from the dining room to open up the space and create more light. There is one small window in the kitchen and one in the dining room looking out to the side return, so we need as much light as possible. I've attached a sketch as I've probably confused you all!
Now here lies the dilemma, we are a family of 4 and I cook a lot so I need to create more workspace and cupboard space. I have no idea how I would fit the usual appliances (oven, hob, fridge freezer, microwave, dishwasher etc.) in the kitchen without losing space. I have thought about a lean-to as I could store the FF and the washing machine & dryer there (the dryer is currently in the bathroom).
Would I lose precious light with a lean-to? Or, would I be better off to keep saving and go for a side return? The side return would only be 2.8 x 1.6m but I guess it would involve so much more work and party wall agreements etc.
We live in a cheap(ish) part of SE London which is a little rough round the edges. We have no plans to stay long term, it may only be another 6 years. But as it is London we may find we can't afford to move and will have to go up to create another bedroom (2 DC). I guess I'm worried about spending too much and not getting it back when it is time to sell. At the same time, I need to be able to like the house I live in.
Is a side return worth the expense? Is a lean-to an affordable, and aesthetically pleasing, way to increase storage? Or, better still, can you wise MNers create a space which works with the existing floor space?