Oak frame kitchen extensions don’t just add extra space, but they provide a wonderful warmth and character to a home — take a look at our favourite projects for inspiration
(Image credit: Jeremy Phillips)
Adding an oak extension for your new kitchen is a sure-fire way to maximise visual warmth, all the while adding some much-needed space and a little timeless elegance to boot.
Whether you're adding to a barn conversion, a listed thatched cottage or even a post-war semi, kitchen extensions featuring oak frame present an opportunity to create something really unique.
So, sit back and get start planning your new oak frame kitchen extension with these amazing ideas that will turn a building project into a dream home in not time at all.
When it comes to oak frame extensions, you need to mix and match your favourite parts of the structure with the realities of modern living.
Let the oak take centre stage, and choose a pared-back colour scheme or lighting design, or conceal the beams to let a bold island sing — but make sure you're not overdoing it.
While an extension is a chance to express your personality – especially in a room so frequently used as a kitchen – don't throw too many styles and ideas at it until the space no longer makes sense.
2. Create a Relaxed Environment by Mixing Woods
(Image credit: Simon Maxwell)
While the majority of this extension's oak has been covered for a more modern look, the timber windows have been matched with a wood-effect tile floor and a painted timber units.
The resulting kitchen extension oozes a bright yet cosy atmosphere throughout the new addition.
3. Looks can be Deceiving with an Oak Frame Addition
(Image credit: Living Oak)
Believe it or not, this 16th century home was actually sensitively extended to create a new modern kitchen with an expanse of timber bifold doors (see below). Extra care was taken by Living Oak to ensure the proportions of the extension suited the period property.
(Image credit: Living Oak)
Inside the extension is a fresh, open plan kitchen which houses the main family space and living area. The French oak frame has been used to zone the different areas, while bringing a certain charm to the contemporary-styled room.
4. A Kitchen Extension with Wow Factor: the Benefits of Modern Oak Frame
(Image credit: Oakwrights)
Although in the past oak frame interiors were thought of as dark and cramped, the advent of structural infill panels has enabled vaulted ceiling and large expanses of glazing to become part and parcel of oak frame extensions.
5. Contemporary Lighting in a New Oak Extension
(Image credit: Jeremy Phillips)
Combining practical recessed spotlights, show-stopping pendants and atmospheric LED strips will never fail to finish off an oak framed kitchen beautifully — as this project goes to show.
Make the most of a new kitchen by getting the lighting design exactly how you want it and showcase the oak structure by illuminating it properly!
6. Create a New Farmhouse-style Kitchen
(Image credit: Simon Maxwell)
Aga? Check. Family dining table? Check. Amazing exposed beams, flagstones and an abundance of character? Check, check, check!
This cosy kitchen was inspired by a traditional farmhouse style and flawlessly pull it off. Who said building an extension from scratch couldn't look like it has always been there?
When dealing with a vast space in a kitchen extension, it can pay to blend fitted kitchen units with large freestanding dressers so the space doesn't begin to feel too enclosed.
Painting units in complementary colours, as in this Welsh Oak Frame project, really stands out, specially when paired with a wonderfully dramatic vaulted ceiling.
8. Go Contemporary for a Sleek Oak Kitchen Extension
(Image credit: Carpenter Oak)
While oak frame extensions can be traditional, cosy and characterful, that's not all they offer. When carefully designed, oak frame homes can lend themselves to a super-contemporary and sleek style.
9. Make the Most of Modern Materials
(Image credit: Jeremy Phillips)
Whether its a bright and colourful tile splashback, cool plywood kitchen units or a polished concrete floor, adding modern trends and styles into an oak frame kitchen gives a unique take on the time-old structure.
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Assistant Editor Amy began working for Homebuilding & Renovating in 2018. She has an interest in sustainable building methods and always has her eye on the latest design ideas. Amy has interviewed countless self builders, renovators and extenders about their experiences for Homebuilding & Renovating magazine. She is currently renovating a mid-century home, together with her partner, on a DIY basis, and has recently fitted her own kitchen.
