Kitchen and dining extension illuminated by roof windows
From dark kitchen to bright family
Sarah and Andy live with their three young girls, dog, budgie and chickens in Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk. The family moved to the village twelve years ago, and while they loved their home, they came to the realisation that the kitchen was a bit small and dark. This led them to build a kitchen and dining room extension and install roof windows to transform their house into a bigger and brighter family home.
"We didn’t really feel that we had enough family space, we didn’t have anywhere for the children to play. I think we’ve doubled the floor plan downstairs from when we initially bought the house", said Sarah.
"We spend a lot more time in here than I thought we were going to, because of how open and light it is", Andy explained.
"I was concerned that it would be quite hot, particularly in the height of summer, but the fact that the VELUX roof windows open means you can cool it down quickly. They open so easily – it’s brilliant – you can regulate the temperature really well".
"I love the amount of light we have in here. I just like looking up and seeing the sky," Andy concluded.
Overcoming challenges for their dream home
Working with an architect, Andy and Sarah blended their preferences - Andy favouring a modern style, while Sarah leaned towards a more traditional aesthetic. Ensuring ample light in the new expansive space was a priority. Opting for 3in1 roof windows, they focused on ventilation to prevent potential overheating from having glass at both ends of the extension. With the 3in1 roof windows and the anti-heat blinds, the temperature in the room is effortlessly regulated through convenient app control and heat protection accessories.
Despite missing the vibrant kitchen activity for seven long months, the extra day spent on installing the VELUX 3in1 roof windows proved to be worth it, adding an unexpected and appreciated touch to their living space.
Andy: "It took about one day to install each of the 3in1 roof windows - it was a smooth process."
Seven months without a kitchen during the building project turned out to be the biggest challenge for the family. However, the speedy transformation of VELUX 3in1 roof windows was a delightful contrast to the prolonged kitchen reconstruction, and it brought newfound excitement.
Sarah: “The most significant challenge about the building project has just been living without a kitchen for seven months."
Reclaiming family time in the kitchen
The abundant daylight in the recently expanded space has brought a stronger sense of family togetherness. The kitchen and dining area now serve as a hub for family activities, where the children play, complete their homework and Sarah and Andy cook. The spacious design allows for a seamless flow, catering to the needs of each family member. The added joy comes from gazing upward to appreciate the sky and the birds flying by. The infusion of daylight, expansive views, and a greater connection to the outdoors has truly transformed their living experience.
“I'm a gadget person. So there was no way I was not having a gadget if there was one available. I found the app really easy to use and it allows me to open and close both the roof windows and the shutters on the app or with the separate remote switches attached on my wall.”
Sarah: "Right from early in the morning I tend to come down and start preparing breakfast, and the girls rush in and sit on the stools. Breakfast is a really nice communal experience".
The family now cherishes their mornings, as it’s a time when everyone comes together to begin their day. The simple joys found in their new normal have now created an enjoyable family routine.
"It’s where the family hangs out now", Andy added.
