Do I need planning permission to create an open-plan kitchen?

It depends on whether structural changes are involved. Removing a load-bearing wall requires a structural engineer's sign-off and building regulations approval, but not typically planning permission for works within the existing footprint of a house. Non-load-bearing walls can generally be removed without formal consent. We always recommend confirming with your local authority or a structural engineer before any wall removal work begins.

What's the best flooring for an open-plan kitchen and living space?

Continuity generally works well, using the same flooring material throughout, or a very complementary combination, helps the space feel cohesive and spacious. Large-format stone effect tiles or engineered oak are popular choices because they're durable in the kitchen zone while looking beautiful in the living area. A rug in the seating zone adds warmth and helps define that space without interrupting the visual flow.

How do I stop cooking smells spreading into the living area?

A high-performance ducted extractor is the single most effective solution. Induction hobs produce significantly less fume and odour than gas, which also helps. BORA downdraft hob extractors, which we supply and install, are particularly effective in open-plan settings as they extract at the source before smells can travel.

Is a kitchen island essential in an open-plan space?

Not essential, but it is one of the most effective design tools available. An island creates a natural visual break between cooking and living zones, adds significant prep and storage space, and provides casual seating that works brilliantly in a social, open-plan context. Whether it's right for your space depends on the dimensions and flow of the room, our designers can advise during your free appointment.

Can you design both the kitchen and the wider living area?

At HKS we design and install kitchens and a wide range of other rooms, including living rooms, utility rooms, and boot rooms. For open-plan projects, we're experienced in thinking about the space holistically, not just the kitchen in isolation. Explore our other rooms to see the full range of what we can do.

Getting to Know Helen: A Q&A with HKS Interiors’ Newest Designer

22nd June 2026

We are delighted to introduce Helen, the newest addition to the HKS Interiors design team. With a hands-on background that began on the tools and a genuine passion for helping people create spaces they love, Helen brings creative flair, technical understanding and a natural talent for designing beautiful bathrooms to the HKS design process. Read on to find out a little more about her.

A Little About Helen…

1. What first led you into the world of interior design?

I started out as a tiler, and as tiles got bigger and I didn’t, I naturally moved into the showroom side, and discovered how much I loved helping people shape their homes. Bathrooms became the perfect mix of creativity, problem‑solving and personality.

2. How would you describe your design style?

Warm, modern and relaxed, with clean lines, beautiful textures, woods – bringing some outdoors inside and a focus on spaces that feel good to live in. I also love Colour, bathrooms are a great space to be able to have some fun and introduce this, subtly or being bold, either way.

3. What do you enjoy most about working with clients?

I love getting to know people and turning their ideas into something that feels so them. That moment when they see the design and light up is honestly the best part.

4. What inspires your creativity?

Textures, materials, architecture, the great outdoors and the way spaces are put together always spark ideas, my tiling background still shapes how I see a room. Real homes and real people inspire me more than anything.

5. How do you begin the design process when meeting someone new?

I start by listening, but I also ask lots of questions, the how, the why, the little habits that shape daily life. That’s what helps me design something that truly fits the individual clients and their homes.

6. How do you balance personal style with everyday practicality?

For me, style and practicality go hand‑in‑hand, beautiful spaces should also make life easier, so I focus on smart layouts, storage and materials that work hard without looking like they do. We want to use our bathrooms to get clean, not to be cleaning them for hours!

7. Which materials or trends are you enjoying working with at the moment?

I’m loving warm neutrals, shapes, textured tiles and subtle pattern, anything that adds depth and character without shouting for attention.

8. What do you enjoy doing outside of design?

Spending time with friends and family, watching rugby, good food, and being outdoors, especially in the garden.

9. Is there a recent project you feel especially proud of?

Yes — a bathroom where I created a spacious walk‑in shower with a privacy wall and zoned the room using wood‑effect tiles. It struck the perfect balance of practical and personal, and the client was over the moon!

Ready To Start Your Design Journey?

Helen’s background, starting out as a tiler before moving into design, gives her a hands-on understanding of how beautiful, practical spaces come together. Based at our Haywards Heath showroom, she’d be delighted to help you explore your ideas, whether you have a clear vision or are just starting to think things through. To get in touch with Helen, email helen@hks-uk.com, or call 01435 866166 and select option 4.