When it comes to designing professional HMOs, it’s the small touches that make a big difference. And one of those increasingly in-demand features? Kitchenettes.
At Invest, we’ve seen firsthand how adding private kitchenettes to select rooms can be a total game-changer, for both tenants and landlords.
We’re not talking about a full-blown second kitchen. A kitchenette is a compact space within a bedroom, usually featuring a small fridge, microwave or combination oven, kettle, toaster, and some cupboard storage. Enough for a tenant to prep meals, heat leftovers, or enjoy a morning brew without stepping into the communal kitchen.
Why do tenants love them? Because let’s be honest, after a long day, the idea of cooking in peace, without competing for hob space or cleaning someone else’s dishes first, is a dream. Kitchenettes offer:
- Privacy & Convenience: Perfect for shift workers, introverts, or anyone who just prefers to cook solo.
- Flexibility: Early risers or night owls can prep food without waking housemates.
- Reduced Friction: Less queuing for shared kitchen appliances means fewer arguments, and happier households.
- Financial Clarity: When bills are included, tenants with a kitchenette essentially get studio-style living without the hassle of extra utilities or council tax. It’s cost-effective and convenient, no nasty surprises at the end of the month.
In short, kitchenettes allow tenants to live a bit more independently while still enjoying the affordability of shared living.
Why do landlords love them? From a landlord’s perspective, including a kitchenette in even just one or two rooms can:
- Attract a wider tenant pool – including mature students, older professionals, and contractors.
- Command higher rent – tenants are often willing to pay a premium for that added independence and studio feel.
- Boost occupancy – these rooms tend to fill first and fast.
- Reduce wear and tear on the communal kitchen, saving on cleaning and maintenance over time.
- Add value with minimal hassle – especially since tenants aren’t managing separate bills, they see it as better value for money (and so do you).
It’s a smart investment with a strong return, especially in competitive rental markets.
What to consider before adding one
While we’re big fans of kitchenettes, it’s important to get the layout and compliance right:
- Ventilation is key: You don’t want cooking smells trapped in a bedroom.
- Power supply: Make sure sockets are safely positioned and tested.
- Local council rules: Some areas may have planning or licensing limits, especially if it starts to resemble a self-contained unit.
- Design: Keep it compact and stylish, less “student halls”, more boutique studio.
Kitchenettes aren’t just a luxury, they’re quickly becoming a sought-after feature in HMOs. For tenants, they offer independence and cost savings. For landlords, they offer higher yields, less hassle, and longer tenancies.
At Invest, we’re always looking at ways to design smarter HMOs that meet modern demands. If you’re interested in adding kitchenettes to your portfolio or want advice on whether it’s right for your property, give us a shout.
