Windowless Kitchen - How to salvage a space with no window?

Hi there … I have been considering purchasing a co-op unit that is nice except the kitchen doesn’t have a window. I’m wondering if there are creative things that can be done with such a space or if no windows in the kitchen mean a deal-breaker (ordinarily it would for me, but I’m happy with the unit, location and building otherwise, and I’m willing to do some work on the place). Has anyone out there managed to pull off a creative design with a windowless space? How did it work? Any regrets? Thanks!

tracyj

in Bath & Kitchen 13 years and 8 months ago

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agdipierro

in Bath & Kitchen 13 years and 8 months ago

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By code, kitchens that are not within 30 feet of a window are required to have mechanical ventilation. But 30′ is a long way and you are likely within that distance. My recommendation would be to use materials that maximize natural light – glossy, minimal cabinetry; reflective tiles; backpainted glass, quality artificial lighting. Ed Kopel Architects.

daveinbedstuy | 13 years and 8 months ago

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Most condos & coops, at least in high rises, have windowless kitchens

tracyj | 13 years and 8 months ago

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It’s a weird layout. The kitchen is immediately to the right of the entrance, and the living room is to the left. The living room is quite long and there are two windows at the far end. So basically LR and kitchen are diagonal from one another. If I were to open it up such that even a little light gets to the kitchen, it would mean knocking out a closet which is right by the bathroom door entrance.

jockdeboeraia | 13 years and 8 months ago

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Can you open the space to the adjacent Dining Room or Living Room?