To be open concept or not to be open concept, that is the question! Open Concept kitchens have certainly gained popularity over the years due to its modern and spacious feel; not to mention the rise of tv shows, social media and pop culture in general showcasing more of these types of spaces. But like anything else it has its advantages and disadvantages. Let's explore this further so that you can make an informed decision on whether to tear that wall down and make the kitchen open or not.
Pros:
Enhanced Social Interaction: With an open kitchen, gone are the days of being isolated from family and friends during gatherings. It allows you to engage with guests while cooking making the entertaining experience more inclusive and enjoyable.
Increased Natural Light: Opening a wall between a kitchen and a dining and or living space can greatly improve natural light within the space. In older homes a kitchen will typically have no more than two windows if that to allow natural light in. Removing walls can make a room feel brighter and more inviting by allowing the additional natural light to flow freely throughout.
Optimized Space: By eliminating barriers, you can make a kitchen feel larger while creating a sense of continuity between the different areas of the home. This is particularly beneficial in apartments, condos, and smaller homes with limited square footage.
Improved Safety: Have kids, will travel! Being able to keep an eye on little ones is a no brainer. Nothing else needs to be said on this point! Separately, an open kitchen can facilitate better air quality when cooking due to the better flow of ventilation.
Customization and Flexibility: An open concept offers more flexibility with design choices and layout. You now have the freedom to tailor a seamless design flow between the kitchen and adjoining spaces while tailoring to your specific needs and preferences.
Cons:
Lack of Privacy: Open concepts are great, but you do lack the sense of privacy you once had especially while cooking. Not everyone enjoys the rigorous conversations and socialization happening while they are prepping and cooking. Not to mention the messes that can no longer be hidden until the evening affair is over. It will be on display for everyone to see unless you are one who cleans along the way. My guess is most people are not.
Limited Storage: Now that the long wall that use to house most of your accoutrement floor to ceiling is gone, you have the challenge of where to put them now without the upper access. You may have just reduced your storage capacity if you do not have an alternative area to store these now misplaced items.
Visual Clutter: Now that the walls are gone, you may have increased your daily task. Gone are the days of hiding the clutter of the previous night's dinner or party. Having clutter in an open concept kitchen can detract from the overall beauty and appeal of the home.
Limited Temperature Control: Open concepts can make it more difficult to control the temperature in the kitchen independently from the rest of the living space. This can be problematic where cooking can generate a lot of heat making it uncomfortable for occupants in adjacent areas.
At the end of the day, whether or not to choose and open concept kitchen relies on your individual lifestyle, preferences, and most importantly, the layout of your home.