If you’re thinking about opening up your space, an open plan kitchen lounge is one of the best ways to do it. It makes your home feel bigger, brighter, and much more social. Cooking, eating, and relaxing all flow together in one space.
At Arkiplan, we help you design your open plan kitchen lounge and dining room quickly and without the stress of dealing with traditional architects or endless council forms.
Easy Open Plan Kitchen Lounge Ideas
The key to a great open plan kitchen lounge design is keeping the space connected but still giving each area a purpose. Here are a few simple ideas we use with homeowners:
- Add a kitchen island to divide the cooking and lounge areas without closing the space.
- Use sofas or armchairs to mark the lounge zone.
- Try pendant lights over the dining table for a cosy feel.
- Mix finishes — for example, wood in the lounge and tiles in the kitchen — to add subtle separation.
These open plan kitchen lounge ideas work well in UK homes of all sizes, from Victorian terraces to modern semis.
Kitchen, Lounge, and Dining in One
A full open plan kitchen lounge dining room is perfect for family life. You can cook while keeping an eye on the kids, or host friends without feeling stuck in the kitchen.
- In a terraced house, a side-return extension can create a long open plan kitchen lounge and dining room.
- In a semi-detached, a rear extension with bi-fold doors brings the garden right into your living space.
And because we deal with the council on your behalf, the whole process is quicker and less stressful.
Small Open Plan Kitchen Lounge
Not every home has loads of space. But a small open plan kitchen lounge can still look fantastic with the right layout.
Here are some simple tricks:
- Stick with light colours to keep things bright.
- Choose multi-use furniture like extendable tables.
- Keep storage smart and hidden.
- Use mirrors or glass doors to spread light around.
Even a small open plan kitchen lounge and dining room can feel open and welcoming with the right design.
Choosing Flooring for an Open Plan Kitchen Lounge
Flooring ties everything together in an open plan space. The right choice makes the whole room flow.
- Wood or laminate flooring is great for a consistent look.
- Tiles in the kitchen and wood in the lounge give contrast and keep it practical.
- Underfloor heating is ideal for bigger layouts and makes the space cosy in winter.
When you work with Arkiplan, we’ll show you different open plan kitchen lounge flooring options in 3D before you decide.
Why Homeowners Choose Arkiplan
Most people put off projects like this because of the cost, delays, and paperwork of traditional architects. Arkiplan is different:
- Planning permission sorted – we handle your council.
- Fixed pricing – no surprises, pay in simple instalments.
- Unlimited design changes – included in the price.
- 3D Home Scan™ – we scan your home in under an hour.
- Remote design meetings – all done on video calls.
So whether you want a modern open plan kitchen lounge or just need help with a small open plan kitchen lounge design, we’ll get you there faster and with less stress.
Final Word
An open plan kitchen lounge and dining room is one of the best ways to transform your home. It adds light, space, and value — and makes everyday life more enjoyable.
At Arkiplan, we make the process simple. From design to council approvals, we handle it all so you can focus on your home.
FAQ
Do I need planning permission for an open plan kitchen lounge?
In most cases, knocking through internal walls to create an open plan kitchen lounge doesn’t need planning permission. But if your home is listed or in a conservation area, you may need approval. Arkiplan checks this for you and deals with the council if needed.
Will an open plan kitchen lounge add value to my home?
Yes. Estate agents say that a well-designed open plan kitchen lounge and dining room is one of the most sought-after features in UK homes. It can make your property more attractive to buyers and boost resale value.
What’s the best flooring for an open plan kitchen lounge?
It depends on your lifestyle. Families often choose wood or laminate throughout for a seamless look. Some prefer tiles in the kitchen and wood in the lounge for practicality. We can show you both options in 3D before you decide.
Can I have an open plan layout in a small home?
Absolutely. Even a small open plan kitchen lounge can work brilliantly with the right layout. Using light colours, smart storage, and multi-use furniture makes the space feel bigger.
How long does it take to design an open plan kitchen lounge with Arkiplan?
Traditional architects can take months, but with Arkiplan your plans are usually ready in 2–4 weeks. We scan your home, meet with you online, and handle design changes quickly — so you can get building sooner.