A kitchen with access to a balcony today is popular not only in modern apartments, but also in old buildings. This layout is a winning option, allowing you to expand the room, make it brighter and more spacious.
The balcony, which will be combined with the kitchen, makes it possible to realize various design fantasies and make the room stylish and cozy. It is worth noting that the balcony not only serves as a place where you can store things, it can become a wonderful children's room, winter garden, office, relaxation area and storage room.
Pros and cons of merger
If the kitchen is combined with a balcony, then someone is extracting obvious dividends from this. People can be understood, because this allows:
- significantly expand the usable area and use it correctly;
- distribute all functional areas;
- avoiding templates to decorate the interior beautifully;
- provide access to sunlight into the room.
Disadvantages:
- the need for documentary approval of redevelopment;
- high repair costs;
- if the balcony is very small, then after insulation the increase in usable area will be insignificant.
Is it possible to demolish a balcony block in an apartment?
Getting permission to remove part of a load-bearing wall to expand your kitchen can be difficult. To approve a permit, the following conditions are required:
- The building is listed in the new fund and it is possible to obtain a technical opinion on changing the layout from the author of the project. You are supported by your neighbors and a professional lawyer who is involved in obtaining approvals.
- If the apartment belongs to an old housing stock, built decades ago, obtaining permission for redevelopment is much more difficult.
- In our country, penalties have not yet been imposed for removing a balcony block. However, if walls or balconies collapse due to redevelopment, the owner of the premises is considered guilty.
After the BTI approves the plan for the future kitchen, you can start implementing it. If the kitchen is combined with a balcony, then part of the wall from the window is completely removed or partially left. Remove old coatings from the ceiling, floor, walls. All surfaces are leveled with putty and treated with an antifungal agent. Then all communications are carried out.
Interesting! New trends in interior design 2022 (90 photos)
Balcony or loggia - what's the difference?
The balcony is remote superstructure, has only one common wall with the apartment and is fenced around the perimeter.
The loggia is built into the apartment; it shares 3 common walls with it.
This is a fundamental difference, since these two zones have different load criteria. Also, the heating battery cannot be placed on the balcony.
That’s why remodeling a kitchen with a loggia always raises far fewer questions and headaches in general.
Furniture and appliances
Every housewife knows that in the kitchen it is necessary not only to prepare food, but also to store dishes, household appliances, and kitchen utensils, so it is necessary to provide a place for them. You can place the sink and stove at one end of the balcony, and open shelves and cabinets opposite. You can store various things on open shelves in baskets and boxes.
The ideal solution for a small kitchen is to remove the partition and move the dining area onto the balcony. The whole family can gather around the table here.
Before choosing a design, try to first imagine a kitchen with an extension. You can create a cozy home environment or a fashionable interior that will amaze with its originality. The design can be to suit every taste.
Kitchen set with balcony
Currently, you can find many offers for kitchen remodeling and custom-made furniture. But not all of them are suitable for a balcony. The peculiarity of this room is its elongated shape. In addition, on the balcony the permissible maximum load on the base slab is small compared to a conventional kitchen or studio apartment. Typically, designers offer two options for kitchen units:
- angular;
- U-shaped.
An island layout is suitable for a kitchen combined with a balcony. It looks original in a room of any style. A kitchen set for a balcony should be:
- functional;
- compact;
- without mezzanines.
The lower part of the set should be quite spacious, since the upper row of cabinets can only be hung on narrow side walls.
Additional Tips
The choice of furniture and household appliances and their location depends on the number and preferences of residents. If 1-2 people live in an apartment, then you can install a dining table on the border between the kitchen and the balcony. For a family of 3 or more people you will need more space. In this case, an oval or round table is suitable. They do not take up as much space as rectangular models.
The most accessible way to organize space is to place household appliances in the balcony area. You can place a refrigerator, microwave oven, coffee maker, multicooker, etc. To do this, you just need to connect electricity to the balcony.
For small kitchens, folding furniture and built-in household appliances are suitable. Light colors are preferred. It is recommended to use minimal decor, especially for curtains. In a small kitchen, blinds, Roman blinds, and roller blinds would be more appropriate. Panoramic glazing will visually increase the area of the room and improve the flow of sunlight.
What is needed for redevelopment?
Sign a whole bunch of documents at the BTI and architectural bureau. Also obtain permission from the fire department.
You must also initiate a general meeting of all residents of the house and take signatures from them agreeing with your initiative.
Of course, for all this you must have a ready-made redevelopment plan in hand.
Expert opinion
Irina
founder of the interior studio, architect and interior designer. The main area of work is kitchen design
With a load-bearing wall, you can remove the windows and door, but the base cannot be touched. Take this into account when developing your project.
You can draw up a redevelopment project yourself. This will require some preparation: you need to take into account many nuances, and for this you need to familiarize yourself with GOST and its provisions.
Many owners resort to the help of special companies. They undertake the organization of turnkey redevelopment. Depending on the fee, the services also include the collection of all necessary documents and permits from KGIOP and BTI. This is convenient if you need to save time. But it is fraught with large repair costs: you will have to write another line in the budget.
Decor
Of course, the design of a kitchen with access to a balcony will directly depend on which layout you prefer. In most cases, the interior of the kitchen and balcony, even if they are not combined, is done in the same style and color scheme. However, there are always exceptions to the rules, and perhaps your kitchen will become one. Don't be afraid to experiment and try unusual combinations.
Ceiling
Today, stretch ceilings continue to be at the peak of popularity - their undoubted advantage is not only aesthetics, but also quick installation. If you are worried that it will become too hot in the kitchen with a suspended ceiling, then you can choose an option with a fabric that “breathes”. Such a ceiling will cost more, but you will pay for your comfort.
Stretch ceilings will help realize any design idea
Floors
Standard options for studios and regular apartments are floor tiles, laminate or linoleum. Of course, natural wood parquet also looks great in the interior. When choosing a floor covering, you should pay attention to its wear resistance, since in the kitchen there is a lot of walking and moving chairs.
Floor tiles are always relevant for decorating dining rooms
Laminate looks stylish, but usually lasts less than tiles
Walls
To decorate the walls of small kitchens, it is best to use tiles - such renovations look stylish and expensive, but at the same time are quite budget-friendly. Another advantage of tiles is their durability. However, you can always choose other options, which are many, for example:
- ➤ decorative plaster;
- ➤ tree;
- ➤ paint;
- ➤ plastic panels;
- ➤ vinyl, paper or non-woven wallpaper.
Acrylic paint is a good option for small kitchens
Textile
Kitchen textiles - curtains, towels, potholders, tablecloths, etc. Of course, all this should emphasize the design and create accents. For example, if the dining room is decorated in Provence style, then curtains with small flowers are an excellent choice.
The upholstery of the chairs is made of the same material as the curtains
If you decide to arrange a relaxation area with a sofa on the balcony, then you can choose interesting pillows and bedspreads to match the overall style of the room.
The color of the sofa and pillows is in harmony with the pattern of the floor tiles
Want something more daring? Combine different textiles and interior styles!
Textiles with beautiful prints will help add zest to the design.
What is the best way to insulate a balcony?
There are 2 options for insulation during redevelopment:
- partial;
- complete.
In the first case, the walls and floor are finished with penoplex. You can use other insulation. For example, penofol. A polyethylene film is laid on top of it and a “warm floor” system is installed. This will make the balcony a truly comfortable area.
Full insulation also includes external finishing with mineral wool. It is attached from the street to the formed sheathing and covered with siding. Of course, this requires the involvement of installers with the necessary equipment for the repair.
If you have a loggia, then consider the option of removing the central heating radiator. You cannot do this on your own - only through permission from the housing sector.
Balcony insulation
When combining a balcony with a kitchen, you need to know that insulation involves not only internal insulation, but also external insulation.
For outdoor insulation, foam plates and mineral wool, mounted to the wall using a metal profile sheathing, are perfect. Afterwards all that remains is to sew it up with sheets of siding. But for this you will need to call industrial climbers. Watch in the video how to quickly insulate a balcony outside the house.
The internal balcony is insulated with penoplex. Experts also advise making a heated floor, as well as installing heaters or fan heaters.
Step-by-step instructions for insulating a balcony or loggia are discussed in this video.
When glazing a balcony, give preference only to high-quality and efficient materials that will retain heat in the room. To avoid making common mistakes when insulating a balcony or loggia, I recommend watching this video. It tells you what material needs to be used for insulation and a lot of useful information.
Redevelopment options
In fact, there are only two of them. The choice is determined by the type of partition between the zones. It can be ordinary or load-bearing.
Full union
If the partition is safely removed without consequences, you will get the maximum amount of usable space when combined. Accordingly, you can take the dining table, furniture, and even household appliances onto the balcony.
The partition is removed completely or partially. Then a small decorative arch is formed on top.
This option is suitable for studio apartments, where any boundaries between rooms are bad manners that you just can’t put up with.
Partial transfer
In cases where it was not possible to coordinate a complete transfer with the removal of the structure, arrange a partial one. With it, the window and door are dismantled, and the partition is successfully adapted to the bar counter. Or a countertop.
It turns out to be a nice option with a clear division of the kitchen space into a cooking area and a dining area.
The refrigerator is placed on the balcony - this is convenient, so it is often noticeable in interiors.
Partial merge
If you were unable to obtain a permit or you live in a panel house where this wall is load-bearing, it is not necessary to remove it completely.
It is enough to remove the window and door. This way you will create a visually unified area where the vacated window sill can be used as a tabletop.
Essentially, if you don't need a single space, this is the optimal method. In addition, such a non-standard configuration provides additional design opportunities and allows you to conveniently zone the room.
Don’t think that an empty door and window opening is only suitable for a loft style - you can always decorate them to your liking. There are many original edgings: arches, plasterboard structures, various panels, which we will talk about below.
Which layout should you choose?
The basis of any project to combine a kitchen with a balcony is a clear distribution of all functional zones in space. The working triangle rule remains relevant in any case.
The corner layout allows you to optimally place all the key elements in space. The added area can be used as a dining area and thereby relieve the main unit: freedom of movement when cooking is key.
Read more about the design of a corner kitchen in our separate article >>> go.
When taking cooking out onto the balcony, it is convenient to use an L-shaped or linear layout. It all depends on the amount of free space. If you get creative, you can find a place for a cozy table for 1-2 people.
With a panoramic balcony, the most appropriate layout is with a remote seating area. You can enjoy a great view with a cup of coffee in your hands and just take your mind off the hustle and bustle.
Original design solutions
For a small kitchen combined with a loggia, a minimalist or high-tech design with a light color scheme and strict lines is perfect. A small space will be visually enlarged by glass panels, transparent partitions or reflective flooring. A profitable solution would be to create the same monolithic floor for the kitchen and balcony space. This way the combined room will acquire a cohesive and harmonious appearance.
The industrial loft style will fit perfectly into a large space. With the help of massive geometric lamps, raw concrete or brick walls and leather furniture upholstery, the surrounding environment will look solid and impressive.
The interior of the combined kitchen can be decorated in a luxurious classic style, a rustic country style or a romantic Provence style, welcoming floral motifs and live potted plants.
The photo shows the interior of a kitchen combined with a panoramic balcony, designed in a loft style.
What's the best way to arrange furniture?
When combining, it is important to rationally use the resulting usable area. Not only kitchen ergonomics, but also the visual appearance of the room as a whole depends on this.
Kitchen set on the balcony
Not the most popular arrangement option due to the complexity of redevelopment in general: you need to move not only furniture, but also communications. But the usual kitchen ergonomics remain in order.
If you have enough space, you can use a corner layout. It is most convenient to place the sink in the center of the window or in the corner. The cooking area thus shifts to the right, where you can fully build an apron. There are also household appliances and a refrigerator.
You will find the most beautiful design options for a kitchen apron here.
Dining group on the loggia
Delicious breakfast against the backdrop of a beautiful landscape outside the window. Why not? Decorating a dining area on the loggia is a completely logical solution that allows you to create a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. On the other hand, you can wisely divide the kitchen space into functional zones.
It’s good if a full-fledged table fits on the free square meters.
If not, then you can ingeniously and simply solve the problem by using a bar counter as a tabletop. Or a cabinet dividing the space into zones, as in the photo below.
Find the trendiest kitchen bar options here.
You can even abandon tables altogether. Kill two birds with one stone: arrange a tabletop along the window. It will serve as a convenient bar counter, and simply look like a spectacular window sill, especially if you add interesting decor. You can do it along the window. Or you can touch the wall adjacent to it.
With a sofa, such a kitchen will look even more soulful and attractive. In addition to comfort, there is an obvious dividend: you can use a smaller table or abandon it altogether.
The secrets of choosing and installing a sofa in the kitchen are revealed in our separate article >>> go.
Rest zone
After redevelopment, in place of the balcony, a cozy corner for reading or just relaxing in a comfortable environment suggests itself. All you need for this is a soft sofa or ottoman, as well as decorative pillows.
It’s good if you can add a coffee table. You can put drinks or books on it.
Don't forget about greens. Plants always look great in such a corner, creating unique comfort and adding ease to the atmosphere.
If the configuration of the balcony does not allow placing a sofa on it, replace it with a couple of armchairs. They can be placed opposite each other or, conversely, next to each other.
Kitchen layout
Before connecting the kitchen and balcony space, starting repairs and dismantling the partition, it is necessary to draw up a competent redevelopment project. For example, in a panel house, this wall with a width of 15 to 55 centimeters is considered load-bearing, and in a brick building, the supporting wall usually has a width of about 40 centimeters. Therefore, to approve a new layout, it is better to consult a specialist.
The most popular solution is to equip a dining room on the balcony. A table, chairs or a soft corner are installed on the insulated loggia. The dining group looks especially interesting when the room has a non-standard shape, for example, like a bay window.
Young families often prefer to place a bar area on the balcony. When the space is partially combined, the window sill is integrated into the tabletop, and when the space is fully combined, a bar counter is placed near the windows and cabinets or shelves are placed on the sides in which tea or coffee will be stored.
In the photo, the kitchen is combined with a non-standard shaped balcony.
Quite complex installation work is required in order to move the work area onto the loggia. This requires the transfer of all necessary communications. The renovation process can be greatly facilitated by installing the sink and oven on the same side where they were located before the remodel. This way the pipes will be laid along one wall.
When remodeling, it is not advisable to remove radiators and heating systems to the balcony, as well as install a stove.
The photo shows the design of a kitchen combined with a balcony with panoramic glazing.
The insulation of the loggia deserves special attention. Currently, there are several different methods in the form of cold glazing, partial or complete insulation.
The photo shows the layout of an elongated rectangular kitchen combined with a balcony.
Is it necessary to zone the combined space?
The absence of partitions does not imply the absence of functional areas in the kitchen that determine its intended purpose. Therefore, zoning is present even after redevelopment and complete integration with the balcony.
It is more convenient and easiest to arrange a relaxation area in place of the balcony. But only after it is completely insulated.
Also relevant:
- bar counter - a window sill is suitable for this;
- storage area - lockers + refrigerator;
- mini-dining set - you can arrange an additional one, especially if you have a pleasant view from the balcony;
- sleeping place - sofa, pillows and complete relaxation, open the windows and fresh air will complement your idyll.
Design for small kitchens
A small kitchen is a rather loose concept. Of course, any apartment owner would like to have a large dining room, but the reality is often completely different. Therefore, we will consider different options.
6 square meters
Standard area for typical Khrushchev buildings. There the footage is even a little smaller, so the loggia will come in handy. For example, place a refrigerator and cabinets there. Or set up a dining area with a compact table and chairs. A bar counter is also a great option here.
Everything is logical and thought out - every centimeter is used wisely
7 square meters
In this case, the kitchen is partially combined with a loggia. Please note that there is a battery installed on the loggia - otherwise the apartment owners would risk freezing in winter. The small area of the kitchen is successfully compensated by the seating area on the balcony - even the window sill here serves as a tabletop.
For small areas in the design it is worth choosing light colors
9 square meters
Quite a decent area, allowing a family of three or four people to comfortably gather in the kitchen. 9 meters gives room for imagination - try to place accents so that the room reflects your personality.
For example, in the photo below, the pattern on the roller blind is reproduced on the wall. This print goes well with emerald tiles and light curtains.
Everything you need fits easily - both the dining area and the kitchen set
Which style and color is better to choose?
The color scenario of the room is determined by the chosen design style. The shades should resonate with each other and not conflict in temperature. It’s very easy to arrange even with completely different sets of furniture next to each other: just add decorative pillows or covers to match one of the other. Harmony!
Gray is always the best color. It perfectly ennobles even the most modest interior, and in the case of an expensive one, it enhances pomp and scale. In a good sense of the word, of course.
See also: 105 of the most stylish kitchen interiors in gray tones
One of the surest options is a loft. Faithful in the sense of suitable. Indeed, a loft works well with rooms without partitions and is perfect for combining a kitchen with a balcony. It is characterized by the use of woody motifs, the predominance of gray and burning black colors.
The Mediterranean interior, on the contrary, is based on a more colorful and welcoming palette. If you really love Italy and greenery, then it is created for you. Be sure to include blue in all its temperature expressions. And don’t skimp on bricks to decorate the partition between zones: red is most suitable.
The best options for decorating a kitchen in blue tones in our separate article
A south-facing kitchen provides a much greater choice of color options. You can - and even need - to play with contrasts, feel free to include black or halftones as close as possible to it. Graphite and anthracite will also look great - popular colors among modern minimalist interiors.
But northern rooms require a careful and thoughtful color scheme. It is advisable not to overdo it at all with saturation in order to avoid disharmony in perception. Monochrome beige wall decoration is welcome, and with the help of furniture and decorative elements the final color scheme of the room is formed.
When there is no time to work out the style, but you just want to complete the renovation and live in a comfortable environment, it is better to stick to light, airy shades. White in combination with blue or turquoise is just right. Freshness, comfort, pleasant mood are guaranteed.
You may be interested in:
143 fashionable beige kitchen interiors
120 photos of the most beautiful white kitchens in the interior
If your set has carved elements, then you can enhance the Provence accents and add furniture with characteristic covers or trim. This style will best reveal itself in a space where you don’t need to count every free square meter.
Typical shades are beige, cream, purple, etc.
Materials and design
Materials for finishing a kitchen with a balcony are always selected taking into account humidity and temperature changes. They also must be wear-resistant and washable in order to get rid of stains, grease, and yellowness.
Wall decoration
Before finishing the walls, some of them will need to be insulated: at a minimum, individual cold zones, and ideally, the entire area. The main materials are mineral wool, polystyrene foam, extruded polystyrene foam, polyurethane foam, expanded clay, penofol. It is better to entrust the choice to specialists, because you need to take into account the type of building, the area of the balcony, the climatic features of the region and other individual nuances.
For kitchen walls, tiles or regular water-based paint, which is easy to renew, are best suited. If you prefer wallpaper, choose vinyl or non-woven fabric that is not sensitive to moisture. Interesting modern alternatives are liquid or textured glass wallpaper, which at the same time hide minor defects in the base.
Take special care of the apron above the work area, otherwise you will have to regularly re-glue or repaint this part. Lay it out with tiles, cover it with glass, special panels, artificial stone or even a metal plate - to your taste.
Floor finishing
In a combined kitchen, you don’t have to remove or hide differences in floor level, but use it as a mini-podium for zoning. Tile, stone, porcelain stoneware or similar materials are good for finishing. If you prefer laminate, choose special moisture-resistant and wear-resistant collections and carefully process all joints.
Ceiling design
In a combined kitchen, plasterboard ceilings look good, hiding all level differences. They zone the space, mask defects, you can hide communications and install lamps in them. And you can unite the room with the help of classic stretch ceilings, which are not afraid of moisture, dirt and are easy to clean.
Kitchen design 2 by 3 meters: beautiful ideas (80 photos)
Lighting
In order to fully use the balcony space after redevelopment, install electricity. If you plan to decorate a dining area here, then it is optimal to place lamps above it. Flat plates with dimmer control or classic chandeliers - it's up to you.
In cases where the table is adjacent to the wall, use sconces. Or hanging floor lamps. They provide accent lighting and at the same time create a spectacular atmosphere.
Don't forget about LED strips. They can be easily installed anywhere and have a remarkable ability to transform the space around them.
Track systems help to organize pronounced accents in lighting. They can be directed at an angle and get the optimal light pattern.
Lighting and backlighting
Lighting can be both a unifying factor and a powerful tool for zoning space. If you want to achieve a cohesive composition, use overhead spot lighting around the perimeter throughout the room. And zone lighting where it is needed: above the dining table, near the work area.
If, on the contrary, you need to divide the space, pay attention to different lamps. For example, compact overheads in the work area and decorative hanging ones in the dining area.
In modern interiors, an LED strip built along the countertop and apron looks good. For a loft, take slatted pendant lamps, from which you can create entire compositions. And for classic interiors, the same classic chandeliers with pendants or lampshades are good.
Curtains, accessories and decor
If you are decorating a kitchen combined with a balcony in a modern way, use roller blinds or curtains instead of the usual curtains. They are convenient and allow you to regulate the flow of incoming sunlight. In addition, they are available in a large number of colors and textures.
In pursuit of newfangled trends, do not forget about the classics. The same curtains greatly imbue the space with a homely atmosphere and comfort.
Of course, various decors and accessories that elegantly complement the decor are welcome: clocks, frames, sparkles on curtains, etc.
Designer tips
Irina Polyakova
founder of the interior studio, architect and interior designer. The main area of work is kitchen design
A good find is roller blinds in the “day-night” format. They are easily attached even with tape and regulate the level of daylight in the room. When choosing such options, be sure to take into account the side the room faces. For northern kitchens, it is better to choose light and warm shades, preferably light beige, so that they saturate the kitchen with pleasant daylight. And if the kitchen faces south, then you can look towards the dark roller blinds. Up to searing black - they perfectly reflect artificial light, saturating the space of the room with tempting tints.
Selecting a color
Thanks to playing with color schemes, a kitchen with a balcony can be visually made larger or smaller. Choosing the right solution should be approached carefully, choosing tones that will combine with each other. The right color not only sets the mood: it can create a bright accent or hide a problem area.
Snow-white set Source test.ideidoma.net/ Large wooden kitchen Source mydesignclub.info/ Gray and white combination Source www.mrdoors.ru
There is no tone that cannot be used in this room, but there are colors that require the right placement. You can come to the right decision by understanding a few basic rules, the main ones of which are the following:
Decorating a dining room on the balcony Source remont-samomy.ru Interior of a combined kitchen in wood color with yellow elements
Don't use all the colors you like. In practice this is what happens. After the finishing is completed and the kitchen set is installed, the little things begin. “Or maybe I should buy a yellow apron for a green kitchen? Or is it not worth it and it’s better to hang orange curtains?” gradually your kitchen will become “clogged” with these colorful little things and will look like chaos. Therefore, no matter how much you want it, you need to select and highlight in color one thing that you want to pay attention to first.
Kitchen with a door to the balcony Source designpics.ru Decoration in olive color Source kuhnyamoya.ru Kitchen with a dining area on the balcony Source legko.com
The second rule is the classic version - 60/30/10. If you adhere to this condition, the kitchen combined with the balcony will have the ideal color scheme. The presented scheme distributes colors as follows:
- 60% is dominant, background, which will allow you to see other colors on it.
- 30% is complementary.
- 10% - accentuating.
Mosaic tiles in the work area Source trafficlmedia.com
Dark blue upper cabinets in the kitchen Source topchinatours.com.ua Elements of orange in the kitchen interior Source diz-kitchen.ru
The favorite color in this rule remains the last one, the accent color.
Kitchen in Art Nouveau style on a loggia Source megadizajn.ru/ Kitchen with island Source www.art-designs.ru
Kitchen with access to the balcony
It doesn’t matter if, for various reasons, the partition between the kitchen and the balcony cannot be demolished. To design the transition between zones, you can use all your creative imagination. With one condition - the space divided by the opening into two parts must be in harmony stylistically.
If there is not enough free space, it is better to replace regular doors with sliding ones. They are much more convenient, and in addition, they eliminate the risk of damage to furniture if they are opened carelessly.
Of course, the balcony opening itself also needs decoration. The style should correspond to the general design direction of the kitchen. The easiest way to achieve a clear, expressive effect is to decorate it with curtains.
Translucent, airy curtains best realize their decorative potential in a classic format. They add tenderness and sophistication to laconic, minimalist interiors.
Are you choosing curtains for a kitchen with a balcony door? Here we have collected the most beautiful and practical options.
If you hang thick curtains over transparent tulle, you will be able to beautifully disguise the opening.
Roman blinds are convenient because they can be lowered to the desired level and make the room lighter or darker depending on the time of day.
Feel free to add plants for decoration. They always look appropriate on window sills and bring you closer to modern eco-standards.
Zoning methods:
It is possible to divide the combined premises into several functional zones using zoning. We offer several basic ways of zoning space:
- Sliding partitions.
They allow you to isolate the kitchen from the balcony. Using a partition that can be pulled apart like a compartment, you can isolate the room from unnecessary noise and smell, as well as from the steam and heat emitted from the stove during cooking.
Partitions can be made of various materials. They mainly prefer glass and wood, as well as chipboard and plastic.
- Window.
French windows are an excellent way to delimit space. They look great, expand the space, and make the room much brighter.
- Multi-level floor.
If there is a threshold between the room and the balcony, it is sometimes recommended to leave it. A heating system is installed on the balcony, in this case the floor reaches the threshold level. The podium will allow you to divide the rooms into a combined space.
- Arch.
The arch will look great indoors, does not take up much space, and also does not block access to natural light. It can be made from plasterboard. The material is inexpensive, and the arch will always fit into any style.
- Curtains.
You can zone the space with thick textile curtains, blending harmoniously into the interior.
Photo gallery
Redevelopment
Those who decide to undergo a major renovation will have to obtain appropriate permission from higher authorities before combining rooms. First, you should decide at a family council what the kitchen combined with a loggia or balcony will look like, a photo of which can be viewed on the website. To do this, you can use the online designer: this program allows you to see the interior of the future room in 3D mode. Or you can make a sketch of the combined version yourself on a sheet of paper.
There are the following ways to enlarge the kitchen by adding a balcony or loggia.
- Dismantling a balcony structure with a door and a window, while part of the wall remains in the same place. Instead of the former window sill, it becomes possible to install a bar counter. Thus, it will be possible to combine the space and properly zone it.
- Complete demolition of the adjacent wall involves the complete integration of the kitchen and balcony into one large combined room. However, this option is only possible if the wall is not load-bearing. Otherwise, combining rooms will not work.
- Arrangement of a full-fledged work area with the necessary household appliances on the balcony. Such repairs are the most expensive, since they require the transfer of communications. In some cases this is strictly prohibited. For example, only residents of the first floors can move the sewer system to the loggia. Additional permits will also be required for the installation of a stove and hood.
If you leave the part of the wall under the window untouched, then the zoning of the space occurs on its own
Complete dismantling of the wall will significantly add space that needs to be used wisely
To the question of whether it is possible to combine a balcony with a kitchen without obtaining permits, there is a categorical answer: no. Firstly, unauthorized redevelopment poses a direct threat to the lives of household members and neighbors. Secondly, when selling an apartment there will be difficulties with paperwork. Therefore, it is better to do everything on time and according to the rules. To combine the loggia and kitchen you will need:
- provide a project for the future combined premises to the BTI and wait for its approval;
- the received permission must be certified by the Ministry of Emergency Situations, SES, and agreed with the housing office (sometimes permission from neighbors may be required);
- the entire package of documents should be submitted to the housing inspection, which will issue a final certificate on the combination of the balcony and the kitchen.
Basic principles of design formation
Regardless of what ideas for the design of the bay window structure were initially, it is very important to make a design in which the maximum amount of light will penetrate into the kitchen room. The design of a kitchen with a bay window also involves the formation of sufficient free space, therefore, special attention must be paid to the environment.
The design of a bay window in the kitchen will largely depend on what kind of layout is provided in the room, what its dimensions and design features are. Even a traditional room layout allows you to implement a variety of design ideas.
Often, the option of delimiting two zones – the main and the bay window – is considered, for which partial partitions, screens, and arches are used, which simultaneously zone the space, but do not prevent the penetration of sunlight.
When developing and thinking through the design of a kitchen with a bay window, it is necessary to take into account the following generally accepted principles:
- It is strongly recommended not to clutter the space near the windows, regardless of what ideas are intended to be implemented. The less light that enters the bay window kitchen, the worse it will be in terms of comfort and design. This solution is relevant in bedrooms, offices and many other rooms, but not in the kitchen.
- It is very good if light shades are used in the design of a kitchen space with a bay window, which allows you to fill the room with light and an atmosphere of warmth even on non-sunny days.
- At the same time, a kitchen with a bay window can have the design that the owners want. There are no strict restrictions here. Indoors, you can use eye-catching decorative elements and bright finishing materials. Moreover, in the kitchen there can be many such elements: tablecloths, dishes, furniture, household appliances, etc. The main thing here is the harmony of finishing materials, furniture, decor and accessories.
In the kitchen, in the bay window, by and large, any style solution can be used.
In recent years, interior styles have become widespread in such premises: ethnic, Provence, hi-tech, eclecticism, constructivism, country and many others.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=VThWnUhJPIQ
In addition, it is quite possible that the bay window part will be made in a slightly different style than the design of the rest of the kitchen space. In such situations, the kitchen in the bay window must be made contrasting, and also properly zoned so that the room is visually and practically divided into two separate parts.
Please note: Trendy design ideas for balconies and loggias in loft style
Layout options
If the room is being finished from scratch or a major renovation is being carried out, then a kitchen with a bay window can have a very different layout; fortunately, there are all sorts of ideas for the implementation and productive use of this design.
- Work zone. Making a kitchen in a bay window (more precisely, its work area) is a rational and, in many cases, the most optimal option. At the same time, such a solution will only be relevant if the windows have a traditional height. In addition, it is unlikely that you will be able to find a standard model of a kitchen set that would fit more or less well into the design of the bay window, so you will have to order the set separately. When creating a kitchen in a bay window, you can install a single tabletop, which will gradually turn into a window sill. It is very convenient to install a sink under the window. At the same time, installing an electric or gas stove near a window is not recommended, because the glass will constantly fog up when these units are operating, and you will have to suffer with the installation of the hood.
Kitchen in the bay window.
- Dinner Zone. A kitchen with a bay window, which includes a dining area, is also a fairly convenient and rational option. It helps very well to implement this idea if the bay windows have low enough window sills that could be used as a seating area for people. In this case, the kitchen in the bay window should be finished in such a way that it does not stand out from the rest of the interior, fitting harmoniously into the design of the room. This is a very convenient solution if you often receive guests. In addition, the free space created under the window sill can be used practically by making drawers or shelves there for storing various kitchen utensils.
Dining area in the bay window.
Designers recommend paying special attention to the process of choosing a table.
It is necessary to take into account that the size of the bay window in the kitchen can be different, so you need to proceed from its design features, abandoning traditional table options. It’s great if you can find a table that follows the shape of the bay window.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=Ayfgu5cMXFA
For example, if the bay window has a semicircular shape, then the table can be oval, but if the shape is rectangular, then the table should be similar. In addition, it would be nice to additionally highlight the ceiling above the formed kitchen in the bay window, which will allow you to highlight a specific dining area.
- Secluded corner. If the bay window structure is of significant size, then you can think about implementing the idea of creating a work corner or a place to relax in it. Of course, for this you will have to do repairs, because the matter is unlikely to be limited to the choice of curtains. For fencing, it is recommended to install small shelves that will be equal in height to a regular window sill, even if the windows are large. Also, kitchens with a bay window of this type are great for installing a separate sofa, or organizing a play area for children or your own area for rest and relaxation in this part of the kitchen. Such solutions will require minor repairs, including cosmetic ones, but the implementation of this idea will free up free space in other rooms of the home.
- Podium or stage. This solution is relevant for a kitchen with a bay window, which is combined with a living room, or for studio apartments, where there are often no walls at all. When implementing this idea, it will be necessary to carry out minor repairs, choosing the most suitable materials for creating a podium. Such a podium can be used as a place to store various things, arrange accessories and decorative elements, kitchen utensils, for rest and relaxation. Also, many owners put a children's corner in the kitchen in the bay window so that the child can do something in front of his parents.
Design options for the adjacent balcony
The apartments, which are located mainly in old houses, have a separate balcony block, which is separated from the kitchen by a wall with a built-in door and double-glazed windows. However, this seemingly not the strongest solution can also be beaten. This is done in order to effectively use the additional square meters located on the balcony.
Reference! Immediately take into account the fact that most often the balcony separate from the kitchen is not initially heated. Therefore, this room should either be used in the warm season, or try to introduce a heated floor system or heaters there.
Very often, a balcony in an apartment plays the role of a warehouse for unnecessary old things and all sorts of rubbish. Thus, the residents themselves steal their treasured square meters. How can you use a small kitchen with access to a loggia effectively?
Making a storage room on the balcony
Organize a small cellar or storage room. In such conditions, canned goods, as well as fresh vegetables and fruits, can be effectively stored for a long time. Implementing such an idea is as easy as shelling pears.
You will need to make your own or order racks that will match the parameters of your balcony. Place them on either side of the entrance. You can also equip the room with additional cabinets and other convenient storage elements.
Please note that on the shelves you can store not only canned goods, but also a variety of other things: mops for washing floors, stepladders, tools, etc.
Be sure to keep an eye on what the temperature is on the balcony, because if it drops below a certain value (see Table 1, 2), the preparations will freeze and the vegetables and fruits will disappear. Therefore, it is advisable to place a special thermometer on the balcony.
Table 1
Temperature, humidity, and permissible shelf life of preservation
table 2
Temperature conditions, humidity, and permissible shelf life of other products
If you are organizing a pantry, we advise you to insulate all surfaces in advance, and not just those next to which the products are located. These include the ceiling, walls and floor.
You can insulate a balcony using polystyrene foam, penoplex, and other widely used materials.
You can see how to do this in this video.
Important! Do not forget to check your balcony for the presence of metal-plastic double-glazed windows, and if the window frames do not inspire confidence, then they urgently need to be replaced so that they can reliably protect the contents of the pantry from the winter cold.
It is not recommended to have many open storage areas on the balcony. Firstly, it looks very unaesthetic. Secondly, direct sunlight from the window will heat the canned food, as a result of which it will quickly deteriorate, and some jars may explode.
In addition, open jars may fall, dust will settle on them, and if left “in the light” for a long time, the preservation will lose its taste much faster.
On the Internet you can find a lot of interesting photographs that offer you various variations of arranging a storage room on the balcony.
Summer recreation area
Surely every city dweller dreams of a cozy corner where you can retire, read a book, and enjoy the fresh air. You can also organize your own summer area on the balcony by equipping it with a small ottoman and a coffee table.
Folding furniture for a balcony can be purchased for insignificant amounts of money, and some craftsmen can even make it with their own hands. If the balcony space is too small to place a sofa and a coffee table at the same time, then opt for a folding table that can be lowered and raised depending on the need for its use.
A very practical solution for a small balcony
Forged pieces of furniture, such as chairs and tables, look very aesthetically pleasing on such a balcony.
It is advisable that your future area for relaxation and privacy be as bright as possible. It is this color that promotes relaxation, and in combination with fresh air, which will come in large quantities from the street, will relax a person, creating harmony in his unity with nature.
It is desirable that the windows and the balcony doors themselves are wide enough and can swing open to allow large volumes of air to enter.
If you have a panoramic view, this will be a great addition to the future interior of the recreation area. And, of course, the view from the window itself decides a lot. Agree, it’s always nice to drink a cup of coffee in peace and quiet, looking at the beautiful landscape or the view of an active metropolis.
It would not be the best solution to place a summer recreation area if the view from your window goes to a landfill or abuts a neighboring house.
You can make a work area on the balcony
If you work a lot of time even at home or carry out your activities remotely, and you still haven’t found a free corner in your apartment to place your bookshelves and computer table, don’t despair. The balcony will be the ideal place to be in silence and calmly build your career.
The balcony can be intended not only to accommodate a work space in front of the computer, but you can also organize your own corner for doing handicrafts, writing a book, drawing, and so on. To do this, it is imperative to have good lighting on the balcony.
Of course, if a computer will be placed on the balcony, the room must be insulated in advance. Otherwise, winter frosts will not allow you to fully complete your work due to the cold, and your equipment may freeze and fail.
Important! Also be sure to solve the condensation problem. The fact is that when the temperature outside the window is minus, and it’s warm on the balcony, a huge amount of moisture begins to form inside the room. Most often it accumulates on the glass and begins to leak. You need to either wipe off the resulting liquid in a timely manner so that it does not reach the sockets or wires, or try to solve this problem in some other way.
Place on the plan in advance all the furniture that should be on your balcony. Roughly estimate where the table, chair, shelves, and possibly other interior details will be located.
If there are no suitable pieces of furniture in stores, make them to order, then your balcony will be truly unique.
And finally, hang blinds on the balcony combined with the kitchen. This way, you and the people spending time in the kitchen will not disturb each other.
Dinner Zone
An ideal continuation of the kitchen would be a well-appointed summer dining area. This is an amazing alternative if you do not have your own private home or cottage. The balcony is equipped with a seating area, chairs, and a small dining table. Lighting fixtures are hung on the walls, and there must be an excellent view from the windows.
It’s nice not only to have dinner with your family, but also to drink a cup of tea before bed.
If you choose this option, we strongly recommend purchasing only folding wooden furniture, which can be easily and compactly stored on the balcony in winter.
On the Internet you can find a lot of photos with options for placing a dining room.
Choice of colors
In addition to the arrangement of furniture, it is important to consider the color scheme of the kitchen. Once connected, a balcony gives a plus to the room in the form of abundant natural light, which can become a minus if the colors and textures are chosen incorrectly.
Here are some design tips:
- small kitchens should be decorated in light colors;
- in this case, it is better to make the surfaces of the walls monochromatic;
- a bright or dark accent can be a tabletop and an apron - it looks harmonious when the “inner” part of the kitchen is decorated in the same style and color;
- furniture with glass doors, countertops, and inserts will make the room lighter and additionally fill it with light;
- chrome elements should be chosen carefully - if the balcony with the kitchen is filled with sunlight, glare can be annoying;
- A combination of light and dark colors will help make the room more visually harmonious. For example, a long kitchen wall can be covered with a set, and narrow walls can be decorated in light colors;
- using white in the kitchen is a risky option, since it is difficult to keep clean all the time;
- the same applies to jet black glossy surfaces;
- matte surfaces will look good in a light and spacious kitchen; for small rooms it is better to choose glossy materials.
In addition, there is one more simple rule to follow. If the set looks massive, choose a table with thin legs and a glass surface and chairs that are fairly light in design. If the set is small in size and tightly equipped, then the rest of the furniture should also look minimalist.
Please note: From the relaxation room to the gym - ideas for unusual and functional balcony design
Don't forget about the magical properties of spot lighting. An LED strip attached under the drawers or inside the set will make the furniture visually lighter.
And colored lamps will add the right mood to even a minimalist or monochrome kitchen without unnecessary decor.
Photo gallery: kitchen design with a balcony
To at least roughly imagine the amount of work involved in attaching a balcony to a kitchen, watch an excellent video showing the entire process in detail.
