Kitchen Advice
Open-plan areas have transformed the way many of us live by eradicating isolated kitchens and creating dynamic, versatile and social spaces that enable us to spend valuable time with those we love.
If you’re ready to create an open-plan kitchen that also has dedicated living and dining areas, getting the design right from the outset is key.
How much space do I need for an open-plan kitchen?
When the time comes to plan your space, it’s really important to think about the overall layout of your property, the ways in which you want to use your space, and how many people are in your household.
Take the time to really think about the appliances you want to incorporate into your kitchen, whether you prefer to cook alone or with other people, and how many different zones you want your space to include.
Although there’s always going to be a bit of wiggle room either way, the general consensus amongst design professionals is that open-plan kitchens should have a footprint of at least 150 square feet.
Are there different types of open-plan kitchen spaces?
There are so many different ways to approach open-plan kitchen design, which will enable you to create the space you’ve been dreaming of.
1. Linear kitchens
Also known as one-wall kitchens, linear kitchens are streamlined and sleek, with all the elements you need to prepare meals along a single wall. If you’re working with a small footprint, this style of kitchen is a great option.
Slab style kitchen cupboard doors work well in spaces like this, as their clean lines and simple form contribute to the sense of spaciousness, even in smaller rooms.
2. Corner kitchens
This type of kitchen is arranged in an L-shape layout, which can also work well in smaller spaces. This layout tends to be more flexible than a linear kitchen, which can increase its overall functionality.
3. Horseshoe kitchens
This U-shape layout uses 3 adjacent walls to provide plenty of storage options and worktop space. This option is great for creating a cosy and supremely functional cooking area.
Pro Tip: This type of space is well suited to a variety of design styles, so whether you choose traditional Shaker style kitchen cupboard doors or opt for a more modern, high-gloss finish is entirely down to your personal taste and style.
4. Kitchen islands
Islands are one of the most popular design features within contemporary kitchen designs, as they can subtly yet clearly establish where the kitchen begins and the living area ends.
But when you’ve decided on the style of the open-plan kitchen that will work best for you, what are the next steps?
Zone your space
The best open-plan kitchen spaces contain clear yet connected zones, with each area fulfilling a particular role. So, in addition to your cooking area containing your oven, cooktop and work surfaces, you’ll also need extra worktops to house smaller appliances and provide additional space to prepare food.
In terms of your dining area, there are a number of options to consider, from compact breakfast bars to large dining tables. A dining table will be a must if you like to host family and friends, however, a compact breakfast nook might be all you need.
Pro Tip: Don’t get distracted by what you think an open-plan space should include and instead design your space for you and your lifestyle.
Carefully consider your storage options
It’s so important to include plenty of storage options to house your cookware and serving dishes, as having too many objects out on display can quickly make your space feel cluttered or overwhelming.
Pro Tip: In smaller kitchens, making the most of the vertical space is key. Choose light, bright kitchen cupboard doors to ensure you’ve got plenty of storage options without making the room feel cramped or cluttered.
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Written By: Happy Doors
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