House renovations! Beginners help please

[ProudBrickBiscuit]

Hi all!

So after 5 years of saving- we have bought a house. This isn’t our final dream house but will be home for the 10 years at least.

We need help- the upstairs is pretty well laid out but downstairs needs adjustments. I will attach the floor plan.

We are definitely converting the garage into another reception room/living room.

Another option is that we could convert the garage into a large kitchen.

The rest- we are not sure how best to utilise the space.

We could split the current living room in two, and break down the kitchen wall. Essentially making a smaller living room but allowing for a more open plan kitchen/dining area.

Another issue is that I do not like the idea of going through the kitchen to get to the cloakroom/downstairs loo.

I know there are professionals who can help us design the space well - but what are they called ?? Interior designers, architects, what do I search on Google 😫.

Any, and all tips welcome.

For reference, it’s myself, my partner, 4 year old, 1.5 years old and probably another kid in 3 years time.

An architect would redesign a layout, interior design is for decorating.
What do you actually need space wise? How would you like to live in the house? Answer these questions and then think about the layout in that context.
If you have budget constraints then moving the kitchen isn't the best idea.
Personally I'd reinstate a wall between the lounge and dining area, and take down the wall between the kitchen and dining room. If turn the utility into a utility/pantry. And I'd probably block up one of the external doors there, do you need a door to the side as well as to the back?
If you'd rather more space then I would partial convert the garage and move the toilet and utility it'll the garage and open up fully across the back of the house. Or extend off the back to add another room.
Totally depends on how you want life to function in the house though.

I would create a self contained front room. Then knock through the current kitchen wall to create a nice kitchen diner and possibly a small snug/play area at the back. Don't move your kitchen Into the garage, with three kids you'll want to be able to be in the kitchen and watch your kids in the garden. But yes I agree with PP, contact an architect and tell them how you live and what your requirements are, they'll help design the space. If you have a local Facebook group try typing 'architect' into the search and see who's recommended locally x

I would recommend living there for a bit so you can see what works and doesn't work for your family first.

That’s a good point. I’m often in the kitchen with the kids playing in the garden. Yes currently- the most reasonable option does seem to put up a wall and split the current living room.

I’ll have a look at architects in our Facebook group, thank you!

I too would spilt the current living room/dinning room. 25ft makes for a very long room. Then remove wall between kitchen and dining room. Good luck.