Beating the Heat in Style, A Cool Kitchen Transformation in Cheshire

Our client in Cheshire had invested in a stunning rear kitchen extension, a modern, bright living space complete with large roof lanterns and south-facing bi-fold doors. While beautifully designed, the space was becoming unusable during summer.

During a recent heatwave, the family found the room unbearably hot, with solar gain through the glass doors and roof lights pushing the temperature far beyond comfortable levels. Entertaining guests, cooking, or even relaxing in the space became impossible.

They wanted:

• A powerful cooling solution that could handle the high heat loads of the space.
• A unit that blended seamlessly with their modern interior, avoiding the “commercial” look of standard wall-mounted systems.
• A neat installation despite the renovation being complete (ducted systems weren’t possible at this stage).
• Work carried out with minimal disruption, as the family had just invested in new flooring and decoration.

Following a detailed site survey – where our team assessed glazing, insulation, occupancy, and room size, we recommended the Toshiba HAORI high-wall system. This stylish unit offers both performance and aesthetics, with a textile fabric cover that can be customised to suit any interior design scheme.

Key steps in the project:

• Two Toshiba HAORI wall-mounted systems were installed to achieve the required cooling duty. Positioned symmetrically either side of the media wall, they not only delivered comfort but also complemented the client’s modern design theme.
• Several fabric options were provided, allowing the client to “try before deciding.” After testing different looks, they chose a dark grey fabric cover, while also keeping light grey and grey-beige alternatives for future redecorating.
• The HAORI system brought added benefits: ultra-quiet operation (as low as 19 dB), A+++ efficiency in heating and cooling, and advanced air filtration (capturing up to 94% of PM2.5).
• Our engineer, Sam Jones, carried out the installation over a weekend to fit around the client’s busy schedule. Protective coverings ensured that the new flooring remained spotless, and the site was left immaculate each day with all waste removed.
• Pipework was discreetly hidden in black trunking, colour-matched to the existing guttering for a professional finish.

The client also benefitted from the government’s 0% VAT incentive on air conditioning and heat pump installations, making the project even more cost-effective.

The transformation was immediate. The kitchen extension, once uncomfortably hot, is now a cool, welcoming space even during the hottest weather. The family can cook, dine, and entertain in comfort, with complete peace of mind that the system enhances rather than detracts from their stylish interior.
The client was so impressed with the performance that they are already planning to extend air conditioning to their bedrooms. Their feedback was glowing, particularly praising Sam’s professionalism, attention to detail, and respect for their home.

At ICE, we know that your home is both your sanctuary and your biggest investment. That’s why we design installations around:

• Your lifestyle – working weekends or evenings if needed.
• Your style – offering systems that blend seamlessly into your home.
• Your peace of mind – keeping everything clean, tidy, and stress-free.

And with the current 0% VAT incentive available until March 2027, there’s never been a better time to invest in home comfort.