Structural Alterations Between Kitchen and Dining Room – Margate, Kent
Project Overview
Buxton and Broadley Renovations Ltd were tasked with creating a brighter, more open space for a client in Margate, Kent. The project involved making structural alterations between the kitchen and dining room, transforming what was once a small, enclosed area into a spacious, family-friendly environment. The client wanted to allow more natural light to flow through the rooms, making both areas feel larger and more connected.
Client Requirements
The client’s goal was to replace a small single door opening between the kitchen and dining room with a much larger opening. This would bring more light into the dining room, which was positioned at the rear of the property and struggled to get natural light due to its limited windows. Additionally, the client wanted both rooms to have new floorboard-style tiles, creating the illusion of one continuous, open-plan space.
Project Scope and Challenges
Addressing Lighting and Layout Issues
The existing dining room was relatively dark because its windows faced a neighbouring property, blocking natural light. The kitchen, on the other hand, had plenty of windows and a large roof light, allowing more light into the space. By removing the narrow door opening and expanding it, we were able to improve the natural light flow between the two rooms, making the dining area brighter and more welcoming.
Challenges with Height Restrictions and Original Features
We faced some challenges with the project, primarily due to the height restrictions on the opening. The dining room had an original feature picture rail, which the client wanted to preserve, while the kitchen had a flat roof that limited the height for the lintels. These constraints required careful planning to ensure both the structural integrity of the alteration and the preservation of the property’s original features.
Design and Planning
Collaborative Design Process
The client’s vision was to create a larger, open-plan layout that would provide more space for family gatherings and bring more natural light into the dining room. After discussing the design possibilities with the client, we leveraged our expertise to explain the available options. We then worked with a structural engineer who provided the necessary structural calculations and materials specifications to ensure the project met all safety and structural requirements.
Execution of the Project
10-Day Timeline for Structural Alterations
The entire project was completed in 10 days, during which our team worked efficiently to ensure minimal disruption to the client’s daily life. The work involved included:
Protection of flooring and setting up Dust Arrest doors to protect the existing kitchen.
Propping the rear of the building with steel pins and acrows to ensure structural safety during the alteration.
Demolition of the original opening and safe removal of debris from the site.
Fitting new concrete lintels and carrying out necessary brick repairs.
Plastering and making good of the newly created opening, ensuring a seamless finish.
Tiling the floors of both the kitchen and dining room to give a unified appearance.
Refitting the skirting boards and preserving the original picture rail for a cohesive finish.
Final decorations and wallpapering to complete the transformation.
Results and Client Satisfaction
The client was extremely pleased with the final result. We successfully created the open-plan space they had always envisioned, allowing light to flow freely between the kitchen and dining room. The room now feels much more spacious and is perfect for family gatherings. Our team’s attention to detail, especially in preserving the home’s original features, combined with our professionalism, has led to continued satisfaction and further opportunities with the client.
Your Trusted Partner for Structural Alterations
Whether you're looking to make structural alterations, improve your home’s layout, or increase natural light in your living spaces, Buxton and Broadley Renovations Ltd are the trusted professionals you can count on. We specialise in delivering high-quality results tailored to your needs while ensuring the structural integrity and safety of your home. Our collaborative approach and attention to detail make us the ideal partner for your next renovation project.
