How to utilise a window void?

[mfaizi]

Hi all

Had an old kitchen window removed and temporarily boarded with villaboard. Only got around to removing the brick sill. So wondering what are good potential ideas for the void. Depth is a standard brick width and heigh is >2m

figuring open shelving or cupboard but would love to hear some ideas

 

 

[EricL]

Hello @mfaizi 

I agree with your idea of open shelves, you can never have too many shelves. However, if you were to cover and put doors on it means that you'll need to build a deeper cabinet body for it to make it practical.  

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1, @Nailbag and @MikeTNZ for their recommendations.  

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[Nailbag]

Hi @mfaizi 

Though I can appreciate the desire to make use of the space I’m not sure it’s going to be useable. The first priority is to fill the external wall so it blends in with the rest of the brickwork. Cosmetically it’s not going to be easy without making it look like a door or window was filled in unless it’s with matching brick. Regardless of external material one way or another it will result in little or no cavity remaining for any shelves. 

Nailbag

[Dave-1]

Good Evening @mfaizi 

This is a hard one as the space (if you want it to line up with the inetrior walls edge will be minimal by the look of it).

I have the same type of deal for my kitchen, the old window has been removed and a sheet of plaster stuck over the rear of the gap of it... Oh and painted lol. So with my sill, the width of the bricks and framing I think I will have around 250mm to 300mm "shelf" width. The idea that I want to try, intend to try when I redo my kitchen is to use that cavity as a light box. So frame it correctly with a nice trim, then install a sliding window pane. The interior will either have narrow shelves depending on final width or even fake greenery. Both my options will have display lights to change the tone of the kitchen when lit. Also the ability to change the scene as having it static would be a little boring.

You could do something similar depending on how deep the space is. You could also go for a solid sheet of glass for the whole area instead of a window that opens. Everything from stained glass pieces hanging on the inside in front of that pane to artwork painted on it if you know a resonable artist. Worst case you dont like the art, you change it. 

Last question to help try and think of ideas of the opening, what area is the window cavity in?

Dave

[mfaizi]

Thanks guys for the support and potential ideas

I agree in terms of limited options and making it flow will be difficult.

i had a potential idea of making a folding bar or bench going across the wall and the potentially using the remainder of the cavity as storage for bbq tools or floating shelves for plants

measurements are 

850x2165x150 (for the cavity)

the bench or bar would be approximately be 1.5m wide but will need to double check measurements

[Dave-1]

Afternoon @mfaizi 

I like the idea of a folding bar/bench, sounds like it would be useful. And a space to "clip" the tools into would really work. 

What sort of weather proofing/water sealing do you have around the rear of the area? I missed it the first time but realise that you have lined the inside of the "window" with fibro board. How diod you seal the edges?

Dave

[mfaizi]

Hi Dave,

i have yet to seal the surroundings, any input would be greatly appreciated. Had and unfortunate issue with the carpenter which left many of the projects unfinished. I added fibreboard due to its durability compared to gyprock and a temporary means to prevent/deter animals from crawling into the cavity space.

in terms of water proofing, there is no water proofing as behind that wall is the kitchen bench with cabinets. The outside is under a pergola - not water proof entirely due to gutters need to be redone but any input would be appreciated 

[Dave-1]

Afternoon @mfaizi 

Mmmmm I am starting to head towards sealing the hole properly. Either as a window or with villaboard and framing it correctly. Mainly to safeguard your house structure going forward. I like your idea with the cavity but siding on caution.

James Hardie 2700 x 1200 x 7.5mm 3.24m² Hardie Groove Lining is what I am now thinking of filling the void area with, making the surface flush with your brickwork. You can still down the fold down bench/shelf but the external shell of your house will be secure.

Dave