My Experience With Open Kitchen And Living Room

As someone who enjoys spending time in the kitchen, I always found it frustrating to be cut off from the rest of the house while cooking. So, when my husband and I were renovating our home, we decided to create an open kitchen and living room space. It was one of the best decisions we ever made.

What is an Open Kitchen and Living Room?

An open kitchen and living room is a layout where the kitchen and living room are combined into one large space. There are usually no walls or partitions separating the two areas, and they are often connected by a large opening or doorway.

Step by Step Guide for Creating an Open Kitchen and Living Room

Assess the space: Determine if your current layout can be reconfigured to create an open space or if major renovations are needed.
Consult a professional: Work with an architect or contractor to create a plan for the new space.
Choose your design aesthetic: Decide on the overall style, color scheme, and materials for the space.
Select the right furnishings: Choose furniture that works well in both the kitchen and living areas.
Lighting is key: Install lighting fixtures that provide ample light for both areas.
Consider storage needs: Make sure you have enough storage space for kitchen and living room items.
Add finishing touches: Personalize the space with accessories, art, and decor.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Open Kitchen and Living Room Spaces

Use a cohesive color scheme to tie the two areas together.
Install an island or peninsula to define the kitchen area.
Choose furniture that can be easily moved around to accommodate different layouts and uses.
Hang pendant lights over the kitchen island for added ambiance.
Install a range hood to keep cooking smells and smoke from spreading throughout the space.
Use rugs to define different areas within the open space.
Install open shelving in the kitchen area for easy access to dishes and cookware.
Consider adding a fireplace to the living area for added warmth and ambiance.
Use plants and greenery to bring life to the space.
Install window treatments that can be easily adjusted for privacy and light control.

Pros and Cons of Open Kitchen and Living Room Spaces

Pros:

Creates a more spacious and open feel in the home.
Allows for more natural light to flow throughout the space.
Makes it easier to entertain guests while cooking.
Encourages more family time and interaction.

Cons:

Cooking smells and noise can permeate the living space.
Requires constant upkeep and cleaning to maintain a cohesive look.
May not provide enough privacy for some homeowners.
Can be challenging to decorate and furnish due to the combined space.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

Overall, I am extremely happy with our decision to create an open kitchen and living room space. It has made our home feel more inviting and allows us to spend more time together as a family. However, it does require more cleaning and upkeep, and we had to be mindful of cooking smells and noise when entertaining guests. My suggestion for anyone considering this type of layout is to work closely with a professional to ensure the space is well-planned and functional.

Question & Answer and FAQs

Q: Is it possible to create an open kitchen and living room space in a small home?

A: Yes, it is possible to create an open space in a small home. However, it may require more strategic planning and furniture placement to make the most of the space.

Q: Can an open kitchen and living room space work in a home with children?

A: Yes, an open space can work in a home with children. However, it may require more organization and storage solutions to keep the space tidy and safe for children.

Q: Are there any special considerations to keep in mind when selecting furniture for an open space?

A: Yes, it is important to choose furniture that is versatile and can be easily moved around to accommodate different layouts and uses. Additionally, it is important to consider the scale and proportion of the furniture to ensure it works well in the combined space.