Open-concept kitchen: How it can change your life
- Blend by ImC
- Sep 2
- 2 min read
Updated: Nov 19
We spend way more time in the kitchen than we realise. Gone are the days when the kitchen was a closed-off utilitarian space away from the rest of the home. As roles and lifestyles evolve with the times, the function of the kitchen has also expanded to suit the needs of the modern homeowner. Let's explore why open-concept kitchens have grown in popularity over the years.
Tearing down walls
"In the childhood memories of every good cook, there's a large kitchen, a warm stove, a simmering pot and a mom." - Barbara Costikyan
At its core, an open kitchen encourages interaction, which can enhance family dynamics. Without the walls, the area also becomes more spacious, creating room for separate activities while being around one another. Those who enjoy hosting love the inviting atmosphere of such layouts, allowing them to engage in conversations with their guests while whipping up dish after dish.
Bake in comfort
When meal preparations are no longer confined to a small, poorly-ventilated part of the home, it can be an enjoyable experience. An open kitchen can benefit from the air-conditioning in the living area, making it less warm and damp. Apart from picking up new culinary hobbies, being in a comfortable environment makes cooking at home a pleasure, which is often the healthier option!
Pro tip: the clothes hanging in the service yard dry faster too...
Make room for an island and more
Opening up the kitchen opens the door to new design possibilities. Many homeowners are excited at this point, to find out if there is room for this focal piece - the kitchen island.
There are some BTO layouts (with household shelter along the hallway) that do not offer such luxury; thankfully kitchen peninsulas can be equally charming, such as one with a "cylindrical leg". As always, additional countertop space is helpful, especially when it doubles up as a quick breakfast counter.
Apart from an airy and brighter space, homeowners can also look forward to a more cohesive design, now that the kitchen becomes part of the home.
The burning question
Is the open-concept kitchen for me? What about the oil and smell?
It really boils down to cooking style and personal preference. If you plan to deep fry, perhaps consider a semi-open kitchen where you can close the dividers, or segregate the wet and dry kitchen, if space allows.
Homeowners who usually make simple meals or order in, safe to say - take down those walls.
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