Homeowners miss walls, especially in kitchens, where they can not hide messes. As a result, kitchens are untidy and hard to clean until prep and eating are done. Open-concept kitchens are stunning when clean but messy and cluttered when in use. Additionally, open-concept kitchens lack the storage of multi-wall kitchens leading to odors permeating the entire floor and making cooking slower and harder.
Another potential death sentence for open floor plans is the demise of the kitchen as the social hub of the home. COVID halted huge social gatherings in the living room, the most popular place to entertain. Still, about half the Americans prefer open-concept, meaning the style has not left but may slowly be on the way out the door.
The open concept floor design has become extremely popular in the last decade. There are no walls separating the prep and cooking areas from the living and dining areas, sometimes referred to as a great room. An open kitchen gives these communal spaces a more open feel and allows for easier flow in the home.
A closed-concept kitchen is a historical design that was formerly popular in homes. In a closed kitchen, entering the space requires passing through a door, effectively closing the mess, clutter, cooking, and prep separate from the rest of the home. Additionally, a closed kitchen makes it more difficult to watch small children, engage in conversation, and serve as the central hub.
Most open homes have a visible kitchen. Kitchen clutter requires extra attention. Make sure countertop items are in an attractive jar or container, and keep small appliances hidden for a less cluttered appearance. Open floor plans are frequently cluttered, but adding a kitchen island creates more storage space.
All kitchen items need a home with smart storage solutions such as a pot rack to free up cupboard space and for appeal. Adding concealed storage or creative cabinet organization to open kitchens helps them feel less cluttered.
Dirty dishes on the counter make a clean kitchen look messy, as can too many decorations. Keep as little on the counters as possible and make sure the decor left out functions like trays or fruit bowls. Finally, make a drawer for trash and recycle to remove obstacles, increase flow, and add to the style.
When planning a multipurpose space, each area must be functional. For a functional open-concept kitchen, opt for about 375 square feet, including the living room and dining room. Choose more for a more spacious and functional space. In addition, plan for about 32 inches between your table and wall as this gives people to move around chairs without feeling cramped.
Designers and architects follow the needs of their customers to create homes that meet consumer needs and function. Also, open floor plans maximize square footage and make for good flow and communication. Many families want a hub for living that encourages conversation and togetherness, which is easier with an open floor plan. As customers move away from open concepts, homes will follow suit leading to changing needs.
