Windowsill, countertop in the kitchen: combined window and work area

Replacement of windows in the apartment - a great reason to make the space more functional, combining on a "2 in 1" tabletop and window sill. Particular success this idea uses in arrangement of small kitchen or work place in a small apartment.

successful planning

The idea tabletops, combined with a window sill, allowing efficient use of space by the window, especially if the opening is too deep.

Rather than simply make all potted flowers, new sill can be used as an extra work surface. Or turn it into a coffee table, if the window offers a magnificent view. As a result of this plan is no longer necessary in at least one table, and the kitchen has cleared a little space. Plus - working area most of the day will be perfectly lit, making it easier to prepare dinner.

More complex in implementation option - worktop with sink. Often, the initial plan kitchen assumes the location of the working area and all utilities along the blank wall. But if you want to drain water and can be mounted differently.

Very tiny kitchen windowsill save folding table top - the design can be reduced to its original size, while the hostess is busy at the stove, and once again turn into a full table for breakfast.

The only limitation that can prevent to realize such a successful idea, may be the height of the window sill. Too high or, conversely, a low, it loses its functionality, as converted into ordinary decorative stand.

When there is no alternative

In the furniture catalogs can often see a photo of the original kitchen, which is occupied by two or even three adjacent walls. If there are window openings composition would have to be divided into parts, completely destroying the original design.

Here their weighty word and say functional countertop instead of the sill, which fully integrate all the elements of furniture to a work surface. The same device will save the kitchen space of complex shape, for example, in the bay window.

Popular content

One of the most common species on today - is sill countertops made of artificial stone Corian. Acrylic products, even of large size are easy, and technology features allow to make any form. A variety of artificial stone patterns are so great that in the photo, such models may look like natural marble or granite.

Marble window sills combined is also not uncommon, however, they are not made from a single plate, and the press of the marble chips with the addition of polymer resins. In contrast, natural stone-sill improved kitchen worktops less susceptible to abrasion and absorbs virtually no contamination due to a dense structure. But despite all the tricks, marble products are obtained quite heavy and expensive, and the production of sinter complex shapes and is not possible. Instead of individual segments Dialed composite surface is accurate dimensions and perfect geometry, so that the seams will be imperceptible.

Economy option - lightweight top sill of MDF, plywood or laminated chipboard (chipboard). The use of such elements, even with their good water resistance in the kitchen is not desirable, since in a few years the hot steam and high humidity will cause swelling of wood substitutes. As additional protection can be used thin sheets of galvanized, stainless steel or ceramics facing.

The most limited in use PVC products. Making them no longer appropriate, as the brittle material does not tolerate stress. But as a small coffee table or a compact bar they have is quite right to exist under the window.

Additional functions

Depending on the location of the opening in the wall, to increase the functionality of advanced sill can be complemented. This will help to:

• Racks on both sides of the window. Pictured like design looks like an elaborate work area with natural light.
• Pedestals as supports or drawers if you want to use to organize the space under the window.

Design features and manufacturing their own hands

To the new countertop sill was really easy to operate, it must meet certain requirements of ergonomics:

• depth articles from the edge of the wall - 40-50 cm;
• up window - 60-80 cm;
• height - according to the location of the sill.

For swing windows it is important to not interfere with worktop open sash.

Dismantling the window sill and make all necessary measurements, you can get to work. Major surface at home will be easiest to saw from a sheet of waterproof plywood not less than 12 mm thick. The two side tables can be used as a support for the console, made in the nearest furniture shop to order or on their own from the same material as the worktop.

If there are concerns about the mismatch height windows and pillars, stone better provide adjustable legs.

Assembly:

1. Install cabinets into place and put on top of the countertop.
2. Mark on the work surface and the attachment point drill screws holes, countersink them with the larger diameter drill bit so as not to damage the veneer top layer.
3. Set z-shaped brackets for fastening points countertop beneath the window.
4. Secure the substrate using fasteners and screws.
5. Run tiling and close the ends of ceramic, plastic or metal molding.

To winter does not fall on the windows condensate over the heat sink in the countertop need to saw an opening for unhindered movement of warm air. It can be covered with a plastic or a beautiful wrought-iron grille - photos of such products and their sizes will be easy to find.