Ground floor layout

[firsthomebuyerfirstreno]

We’re planning a rear extension on our 1920s terrace and I’d love some advice from people who’ve already done one.

Our neighbour (same house layout) already did an extension, and we may do something very similar structurally, so we’re wondering how much architect input we realistically need beyond adapting plans/building regs etc.

We’re also trying to decide between two layout approaches:

Option 1:
Minimal wall demolition, more separation between rooms, slightly more traditional layout. And maybe less cost?

Option 2:
Wider opening / more open-plan feel between old house and extension.

The thing I keep struggling with is that I DON’T want the entire extension to become one giant kitchen showroom. We’re a family of five and cook a lot, so the kitchen matters, but I’d rather it feel efficient than enormous.

The back gets beautiful afternoon/evening light and I’m increasingly thinking I want the lounge/seating area to have the priority near the garden, with the kitchen integrated but not taking over the whole space.

Would love real-life experiences before we commit to a layout!

Much prefer the plan with the clear separation of toilet and shower. Would hate to have that coming off kitchen area. Also looks like a more sociable space than with the kitchen shoved into the corner in the darkest part of the room. You'd be cooking with your back to everyone.

I definitely wouldn’t want to toilet next to the kitchen with only a sliding door between. But is there scope to have a central “loo & utility block” in the middle right (not under the stairs, other side) and then have a better kitchen?

More like this. U = utility with access to loo (wc).

C and S are more storage

K is kitchen which could be configured in various ways.

I was going to say more or less exactly what @parietalhas said. I’d tuck the utility and cloakroom as two separate rooms (not one off the other) and be able to walk from the hall straight into a more open space.

I don’t like the rooms feeling like they’re in the kitchen in the first picture and I’d prefer not to have the dining area in the second picture as a walk-through.

Planning won’t allow walking straight into a loo from Kitchen you need a corridor

also agree with parietal

Like @parietal but depends on plumbing for toilet might have to have toilet where cupboard c is