Mark Webb wrote:
We're trying to lay out the appliances for a new kitchen, and would
appreciate some impartial advice on a couple of queries please.

1) Is there any issues with placing a free standing larder (tall) fridge
next to a tall built in over housing?

Do you mean oven? Advice I've read in a kitchen design book said not to
put the fridge next to the oven. But a free standing fridge should be
better than a built in one. So it might be okay, but I'd leave a
reasonable gap IIWY. You'll just make your fridge less efficient the
closer you have it.

2) Given the need to position an extractor hood over, is there any problem
with locating an electric hob right up to a window opening (i.e. along
side, not in front of)? No curtains but probably an inset blind in the
reveal.

Again, I'd leave a reasonable gap. Say 200mm+, if only for aesthetics.

3) To position a built in over near a corner, how much side clearance
should there be to stop the oven scorching the cabinets facing (around the
corner) when the door's open?

Maybe a bit more. 300mm?

I guess I don't trust the designers not to tell me to do whatever results
in the most cabinets/expense.

Same here. I've spent along time planning and designing my own kitchen.
I'll probably go along to a kitchen designer anyway (MFI or where ever)
just to see if they have any good idvice I've not thought of.

-Duncan