When starting to think of your kitchen design and looking to begin the process, especially if you’re extending, the thought of a great big open plan kitchen with doors leading to the garden surely will have crossed your mind. Whether it be kitchen / dining, kitchen / living or all three if the space accommodates, here’s some things to consider if you’re unsure this layout works for you.
A Relaxed & Social Butterfly
With your dining and/or living space flowing straight into your kitchen, will automatically make it a more social environment in a very easy-going way. Families will natural gather in the living, dining and kitchen areas even if taking part in solo activities like reading, watching TV, colouring in, doing homework, cooking etc. This creates a lovely feeling of togetherness but with some personal space. If however, your family value privacy and less noise travelling, perhaps keeping the living space separate might be better suited for your lifestyle.
Or, if your space allows for it, creating a separate, cosy living nook!
2. Plenty Of Room, Plenty Of Light
With an open plan layout, you will of course be left with a larger room. This will also make your kitchen itself appear larger and especially if you’re extending and adding windows, skylights will allow more natural light in bringing the outside in. Extending into an open plan living layout will especially make a grand impression if you have high ceilings.
3. The Heart Of The Party
Are you an entertainer? Always the host? There’s no better way to throw a saoiree, be it small or large, than with an open kitchen and living space. Maintaining presence while finishing up food or making drinks ensuring you don’t miss a beat of your get together. Plus, a sofa or arm chair is the perfect spot to end up in after a few drinks!
Keep in mind that if as Toastmistress, you like to keep the mess that comes with a party or dinner more of a mystery to your guests, perhaps opt for a separate dining space or even a sink in your utility near by as a place to hide away dirty plates and glasses until your guests have said their fare-thee-wells.