How to Create the Perfect Open-Plan Kitchen

If you're remodelling your kitchen, you may want to consider an open-plan layout. Kitchens with an open plan can be transformative, and not just in terms of architecture. Open plan kitchens tend to become the real heart of the home, a spacious and inviting space to draw in family members and guests alike…

So how do you create the perfect open plan kitchen design? Well, it’s not as simple as down the walls! If you're not sure about where to start, we're here to help.

In this article, we'll give you some tips on designing and decorating your new open-plan kitchen space. So, whether you're looking for ideas or just want some advice on what to avoid, keep reading!

Ensure it's functional as well as beautiful.

Creating the perfect open plan kitchen requires a careful balance of form and function. Perhaps one of the most important factors to consider is traffic flow. After all, the kitchen is often the busiest room in the house, and you want to make sure that everyone can move around easily without getting in each other's way.

The first step is therefore to create a clear path from the entryway to the major appliances, such as the oven, hob and fridge. You should also leave plenty of space around the island so that people can move freely when cooking or entertaining.

Another important consideration is storage. Open-plan means fewer walls, and therefore fewer traditionally-placed wall cabinets. To ensure that there is plenty of storage space for all your pots, pans and ingredients, you may need to be creative with your storage solutions.

Clever storage options such as corner cabinets, full height pull outs and under island storage are a must. And for a touch of flair, you might want to consider open shelving to display your favourite kitchen items, although be sure to keep everything tidy and organised so that it doesn't look cluttered!

Create distinct zones.

An open-plan layout can help to create a sense of spaciousness and openness. However, an open-plan kitchen can quickly become a chaotic mess without careful planning. One way to avoid this is to create designated zones within the space.

For example, the cooking area can be separated from the dining area, and the sink area can be separated from the food preparation area. Creating distinct zones will make it easier to keep the kitchen organised and tidy.

In addition, each zone can be decorated and designed to suit its specific purpose. For instance, the cooking area could be fitted with sleek and practical appliances, while the dining area could be furnished with more laid-back furniture and decor.

Create a seamless transition to the outside.

The open-plan kitchen has become increasingly popular in recent years as more and more people strive to create a seamless transition between the indoors and outdoors.

There are a number of ways to achieve this, but one of the most effective is to use large sliding or bi-folding glass doors or windows. This way, you can let in natural light and enjoy your garden or patio views while you cook or entertain friends.

If you’re looking for an indoor-outdoor flow, using materials such as stone or wood for both the indoor and outdoor areas may also help to create a cohesive look. Not only do they bring the beauty of the outdoors into your home, but they also help create a sense of continuity between the two spaces.

Incorporate an island.

If you're lusting after an open-plan kitchen, a key part of the design will be the island. An island can serve multiple purposes, from providing extra worktop space to serving as a breakfast bar or dining table.

It’s not an exaggeration to say that the kitchen island is the cornerstone of the open plan kitchen. As a focal point for family and friends, it’s the perfect spot for everyone to gather during parties or festivities, helping to create a fluid layout that is perfect for entertaining.

In addition, an island can help define the kitchen's boundaries, making it feel more separate from the living area. Since the perfect open plan kitchen is all about flow, incorporating an island into the design is a great way to create a natural flow between the room's different areas.

One thing to note, though — be sure to choose an island that is the right size and shape for the space. A too-large island can make the kitchen feel cramped, while a too-small island will be ineffective and impractical.

Don't forget lighting.

As it is with any kitchen design or layout, it is crucial to ensure that the space is well-lit. Even the most beautiful kitchen can be ruined by poor lighting. To create the perfect open-plan kitchen, pay special attention to your lighting scheme. Natural light is always best, so if possible, try to include large windows or skylights in your design.

If there is insufficient natural light coming in, supplement it with artificial light by using a mix of task lights over prep and cooking areas, and ambient lights for general illumination. Pendant lights are also an excellent option for an open plan kitchen, as they can help to create a sense of visual interest and can be used to highlight specific areas.

Position your lights to illuminate all areas of the kitchen, including worktops, splashbacks, kitchen island and flooring. We love Occhio's range of lighting for their understated elegance, as shown in these collection of five feature pendants over the kitchen island.

If you're considering renovating your kitchen and are wondering if an open-plan design is right for you, we hope this helpful. At LUXIOSO, we have a wide range of kitchen styles and designs to choose from, so be sure to check out our website or visit one of our showrooms to find the perfect kitchen for your needs.