Ask today’s homeowners if they’d like an open concept kitchen design and you’re likely to hear “yes” about 77% of the time; or at least that’s what a recent survey of over 7,800 people revealed. While open kitchens seem to be the norm these days, it wasn’t always that way. Thinking back through the homes of your parents, grandparents, or even great-grandparents will likely uncover memories of closed-off spaces (or at least mostly closed-off). In decades past, homes were more “compartmentalized,” so to speak. The kitchen was usually quite hidden, and a place with just enough room for the essentials and one cook. Keeping the kitchen hidden from the adjoining rooms allowed for the culinary masterminds of the home to prepare food, undisturbed.

Since then, walls have been dropping one by one, and the kitchen has become a more centralized part of the home design. It is no longer hidden away, but rather highlighted as a focal point – a place for families to gather, multiple cooks to whip up meals, and design ideas to flow.

Are you open to open concept?

Is an open concept for you? It is entirely a personal preference, but we’ll lay out some of the main benefits open kitchen owners see:

Continuous design – When the kitchen is open to adjacent spaces, this allows design ideas to flow throughout the home. Color choices, materials and patterns can play off each other from one room to the next. Your beautiful flooring can continue from the living room through the kitchen and give the appearance of a larger space.

More inclusive – In an open kitchen, the cook becomes part of the social fun. No longer will they have to feel like they’re left out of the conversation while they’re preparing for guests. In fact, seating can be worked into the design so guests can be a part of the fun.

No child-care necessary - The cook with children can now keep an eye on the little ones while preparing breakfast, lunches and dinners. Islands also can become a great place for homework activities.

Lighting and views improve – Instead of getting light from just one window (or artificial lighting) in the kitchen, an open room allows for the light to flow in from all areas open to the space. Not to mention, there is a lot more to look at. If you’re feeling uninspired while gazing at your meatloaf creation, glance at the inspirational cooking show on the television in the other room.

While open kitchens aren’t for everyone, they certainly do have their positives – which is why you should at least consider one if your budget allows. If you’re in Chicago or the surrounding areas, feel free to contact us to discuss more ideas for your kitchen layout or design.