Creating an Open-Plan Kitchen Diner
In the last couple of decades, the standard kitchen has evolved. No longer are homes separated by individual, tight rooms, today the lifestyle of a modern homeowner has changed. Many are beginning to opt for open place spaces that allow cooking and eating to become an activity and not a chore.
This is where the kitchen diner plays a role. The newer, preferred solution to open plan living and dining, the kitchen diner is where cooking, eating and entertaining is made simple.
Size and plan
The main benefit to extending or remodelling a current kitchen is that you have a lot of freedom at hand, especially with the size and layout.
One option is the L-shaped layout, which places great emphasis on balance between the kitchen and dining spaces. This option also prevents having the messy kitchen in sight when sitting down at the table.
Another option is the typical large square/rectangular room. This can work if the area is strategically laid out and carefully prioritised.
Lighting
Kitchen diners are often the areas that are toughest to light. Think about each layer of light and the role they will play in your kitchen:
Ambient: this is the general lighting in a room i.e. a ceiling light
Task: this kind of lighting services a specific purpose i.e. under cupboard lighting to assist with food preparation.
Accent: whilst not super functional, this layer sets the mood and can be used to draw focus to particular features of a room i.e. a lit candle in a dark room.
But don’t forget to overlook natural light. Since the kitchen will probably be the busiest room in your house, remember to find ways to attract as much natural light as possible. Windows and glazed doors do this well and both combine well with artificial light sources.
Flooring
Don’t forget to pay attention to what’s underneath your feet, as it’s something you’ll also want to get right. Your choices include:
- Luxury vinyl tile
- Limestone
- Slate
- Carpet
- Wood
Having more than one floor finish in an open space can work, but the partition between them can be tough to deal with, especially if the floor heights are different. You could choose to stick with differing heights, but keep in mind it may not be the best option for those with children.
Interior design
To achieve a balanced interior you should mix together a palette of similar colours with a consistent selection of materials. When planning the room, pay particular attention to the symmetry for achieving a consistent shape.
Some kitchen companies offer custom cabinetry, so you could instead opt for a bespoke design if you want something with more of a personal touch.
Cleaning up
No one wants to sit down to eat and have the unsightly view of dirty dishes and pans. It can also be an issue with entertaining as well. Some solutions include:
- Sliding partition doors that can be closed when guests are over.
- A raised worktop or breakfast bar to save space.
- A nearby food prep room – a popular solution in larger properties.
Are you planning a kitchen-diner in your home? Let us know your plans on Twitter @chewtonrose!
