All the keys to designing an open-plan kitchen/living room

Designing an open-plan kitchen/living room is one of the trends most popular in the architecture and the interior design current. This type of distribution not only provides breadth and brightnessbut also promotes functionality and the coexistence at home. However, to achieve a functional and harmonious space, it is essential to consider some key factors.

We share with you tips, ideas and practical to make your open-plan kitchen a complete success.

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Why choose an open-plan kitchen/living room?

The open kitchen to the hall, also known as American cuisine, has become the preferred option for modern homes and contemporaryWhy? Primarily because it eliminates visual and physical barriers, allowing light to flow and spaces to integrate naturally. It also facilitates interaction between those who They cook and those who They are in the living roomwhich is perfect for families and for those who like receiving guests.

Among the most notable advantages of having an open-plan kitchen and living room are:

• Greater sense of spaciousness and brightness.
• Better communication and coexistence.
• Optimal utilization from space.
• Modern aesthetics and current.

However, they also arise Frequently asked questionsHow can you prevent odors from spreading? How can you visually separate the two areas? What materials and colors should you choose? The answers follow We resolve these and other issues.

6 key elements for designing an open-plan kitchen/living room

1. Space planning: distribution and functionality

The first step in designing an open-plan kitchen/living room is analyze the available space and define the best distributionIt is essential that the kitchen be functional and that the ttransit between the different areas (eating, cooking, resting) be continuous.

Practical tips:

• Choose a suitable layoutIsland, peninsula, or L-shaped kitchens are the most recommended for open spaces, as they allow delimit environments without the need for walls.
• Respect work areasFollowing the rule of work triangleCheck that the storage, sink and cooking areas are properly connected.
• Leave enough room for trafficTo ensure comfort and securityIt is necessary that there be at least 90 cm between the island or peninsula and the rest of the furniture.

2. Define spaces without losing integration

One of the challenges key points when designing an open kitchen/living room It is about ensuring that both environments are connected, but maintain a certain degree of visual and functional independence.
Ideas for separating spaces:

• Islands or peninsulasThese are key elements that act as a natural boundary between the kitchen and the living room, as well as offering extra work surface and storage.
• Breakfast bars: A kitchen bar It can serve as a space for informal meals and, at the same time, mark the transition between both environments.
• Different materials or colorsUse different flooring (for example, ceramic in the kitchen and wood in the living room) or play with two colors and textures help define each area without losing harmony.
• Lightweight screens or open shelvesThey facilitate visual separation without obstructing light or communication.

3. Choose materials and finishes that are easy to clean

In an open kitchen, the cleaning and the order They are even more important, since everything is visible. Therefore, it is advisable to opt for durable materials, easy to clean and? maintain their impeccable appearance with daily use.

Recommendations:

• Smooth, seamless surfacesThey facilitate cleaning and prevent the accumulation of dirt.
• Built-in appliancesThey help maintain a uniform and tidy aesthetic.
• Furniture with fingerprint-resistant finishesIdeal for doors and drawers, especially in dark colors.

4. Control odors and noise

The odor diffusion and noises The open-plan kitchen, which opens up to the living room, is one of the most significant disadvantages of open kitchens. To minimize these effects, it is fundamental to invest in a good extractor hood and choose quiet appliances.

Helpful tips:

• High-power extractor hoodsSelect models that are quiet and have an extraction capacity appropriate for the size of your kitchen.
• Sliding glass doorsGlass doors allow for insulation without losing light or the feeling of spaciousness, in case you wish to temporarily close the kitchen.
• Silent appliancesCheck the decibel level before buying integrated appliances such as dishwashers, refrigerators or microwaves.

5. Lighting: key to creating welcoming environments

The lightning It plays a fundamental role in open-plan kitchens. It's important to combine general lighting, punctual and environmental to create a space functional and pleasant.

Lighting tips

• General lightingUse recessed spotlights or ceiling lights to illuminate the entire room.
• SpotlightAdd LED strips under the upper cabinets or pendant lamps above the island or bar.
• Ambient lightFloor lamps or wall lights in the living room help create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

If you need more information, you can read our article about how to light your kitchen correctly.

6. Maintain order and organization

The Order is essential in an open-plan kitchen/living room. A cluttered space can ruin the aesthetics and the functionality of the group.

Storage solutions:

• Custom-made furnitureThey make use of every corner and allow you to hide small appliances or utensils.
• Open shelvingIdeal for decorative objects or beautiful tableware, but without overwhelming the space.
• Drawers and internal organizersThey facilitate access and keep everything in its place.

Create your ideal open-plan kitchen/living room

Designing an open-plan kitchen/living room is an excellent way to modernize your home, gain space and improve coexistenceFollowing these guidelines, planning, delimitation of environments, choice of materialsOdor and noise control, lighting and tidiness will give you a space functional, cozy already the last.

Are you thinking about remodeling your kitchen? Consult with our experts and discover how we can help you create the open-plan kitchen/living room of your dreams.

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