An open-plan kitchen diner is the most requested home improvement we deliver. Combining cooking, dining and living into one flowing space transforms how families use their homes. Here's what's involved.
Most open-plan conversions require removing a load-bearing wall between the kitchen and dining room. This means installing a steel beam (RSJ) to carry the load above. Structural steel and installation typically costs between £2,500 and £6,000 depending on the span.
Before any walls come down, you'll need a structural engineer's calculations and Building Regulations approval. At TEMBOK, we arrange both as part of our service — it's not something you need to organise separately.
Layout is everything. The most successful open-plan spaces create defined zones: a working kitchen area, a dining zone and a relaxed seating area. Kitchen islands are excellent zone dividers and provide additional worktop space, storage and casual seating.
Flooring continuity makes a huge difference. Using the same flooring throughout (large-format tiles or engineered wood) creates a sense of space and flow. Underfloor heating is highly recommended for tiled floors.
Ventilation matters more in open-plan spaces. A good extractor hood is essential to prevent cooking smells permeating the living area. We recommend either a powerful ceiling-mounted extractor or a downdraft system integrated into the hob.
Total costs for a typical open-plan kitchen diner conversion (including structural work, new kitchen, flooring and decoration) range from £25,000 to £60,000. At TEMBOK, we manage the entire process from design to completion.