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Homes and Gardens
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Homes and Gardens

Open plan kitchen ideas – 26 design tricks to enhance single space living

Open-plan kitchen designs offer a flexible and relaxed solution for modern homes, merging the kitchen with dining and living areas to create a multi-functional space. This layout allows the cook to remain engaged with guests during entertaining and facilitates family interaction, enabling parents to prepare meals while children play or study. Richard Moore, design director at Martin Moore, highlights that large, shared spaces are ideal for families and less formal than traditional separate rooms, emphasizing the need for ample storage and considering separate quiet areas for noisy activities. Tim Higham of Higham Furniture notes a shift towards less formal living, where cooking and entertaining can happen simultaneously, and families desire shared spaces for multi-tasking. Open-plan designs often incorporate extensive glasswork, linking indoors with outdoor spaces and expanding living areas. The article outlines 26 design ideas for open-plan kitchens, starting with the concept of a 'broken plan' layout, which uses subtle divisions like glass screens, bookcases, or changes in floor levels to create distinct zones within a cohesive open space. This approach maintains visual openness while providing separation for different activities. An example includes an L-shaped kitchen layout with a Crittall-style glass screen separating the main kitchen from a formal dining/living area, maintaining visual impact while delineating cooking and social zones. Another key idea is leveraging spectacular views by positioning the open-plan kitchen in a prime location with large windows, such as floor-to-ceiling glass overlooking a lake, emphasizing base cabinets to highlight architectural features like a pitched roof. Galley layouts are presented as effective for maximizing space, with an island unit opposite an exterior wall housing the sink, units, and appliances, creating an efficient workflow and a subtle division between preparation and dining areas. Color and curves are suggested for zoning, using contrasting hues and rounded island units to define areas for cooking, seating, and eating, harmonized with complementary materials and finishes. Embracing a vintage look involves carefully curating antiques and deVOL furniture with vintage pieces to create an organic, evocative space, as exemplified by Helen Parker’s kitchen, which used a still life painting to guide its color palette of muted pink, teal, wood, and marble. For compact spaces, the article suggests strategic changes like swapping appliance locations to improve flow and perspective, and using panel-ready appliances for a streamlined look. Unfitted elements like open shelving can create an 'unkitcheny' feel, adorned with curated items and maintained within the room's color palette for effortless flow. Layered lighting is crucial for defining zones, using task, ambient, and accent lighting with dimmable controls to create different moods. Utilizing lofty architecture, such as converted stables, allows for grand-scale designs with dramatic lighting and multiple islands. Making a statement with a contrasting kitchen island adds a unique focal point. Maximizing natural light with large windows or Crittall-style doors enhances the spaciousness and economy of an open-plan kitchen. Incorporating original architectural features like exposed beams or brick walls provides unique character. Vertical expansion, such as double-height ceilings, creates dramatic dining spaces. Skylights are recommended for increasing natural light and enhancing the sense of space. L-shaped breakfast bars offer additional seating and zone the kitchen within the open plan. Getting the layout right from the start, considering the work triangle and large storage banks, is essential. Furnishings are used to balance different zones, with dimmable lighting and soft treatments like drapes creating cohesion and mood. Extending into a side return can gain space in smaller kitchens without sacrificing outdoor areas. Designing for entertaining includes incorporating large tables and cohesive furniture choices without being overly matchy-matchy. Creating zones while maintaining unity is achieved through thoughtful use of lighting, color, and appliance placement. Social kitchens prioritize islands or peninsulas for gathering, with noise-dampening materials. Small open-plan kitchens benefit from pared-back materials and classic cabinetry. A pleasing backdrop for diners can be created with concealed working elements and smart, uncluttered units. Finally, homeowners are encouraged to be influenced by their home's architecture, such as warehouse spaces, to inform design choices and to provide adequate seating for guests. An open-plan kitchen is generally considered to add value to a home, particularly through improving spatial flow and maximizing views, but professional structural advice is recommended before undertaking renovations. #OpenPlanKitchen #KitchenDesign #HomeInteriors #InteriorDesign #SpacePlanning #KitchenLayout #ZoningTechniques #ArchitecturalFeatures #HomeRenovation #OpenPlanKitchen #KitchenDesign #HomeInteriors #InteriorDesign #SpacePlanning #KitchenLayout #ZoningTechniques #ArchitecturalFeatures #HomeRenovation
41 months ago
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The increasing prevalence of smaller homes, which have shrunk by almost 20 percent since the 1950s, has led to a growing trend of combining kitchen and living areas into single open-plan spaces. While this layout fosters family togetherness, it presents unique design challenges, primarily in dividing the space into distinct functional zones for living and cooking. Interior designer Claire Garner emphasizes the importance of establishing visual and functional zones to prevent the area from feeling undefined. Thoughtful design and furniture choices are crucial to transforming these spaces into harmonious and inviting environments. Several clever methods can be employed to achieve effective zoning. Simple dividers like a kitchen island or a large sofa can create subtle boundaries. Utilizing distinct flooring materials in each area can also visually delineate the zones. While a cohesive color palette often works best, a bold feature wall can help differentiate one area from another. Claire Garner also advises considering the flow of movement and natural light when planning zones, ensuring each area serves a clear purpose. She highlights the necessity for open-plan kitchens to balance aesthetics with practicality, addressing factors such as acoustics, privacy, and storage. Strategic lighting can further enhance the individuality of each zone while maintaining a seamless connection throughout the space. The article explores 11 different homes that showcase innovative approaches to designing and decorating open-plan kitchen and living rooms. These examples illustrate how layout, flow, color schemes, furniture placement, and overall function can be intelligently integrated. One design tip suggests that dividing an open-plan space doesn't need to be overly complicated; a sofa can effectively separate a kitchen from a living area, with a rug further enhancing this division. Clever color overlaps, such as matching sofa and backsplash tones, can also create a smart, unified look. Maximizing natural light is another key consideration, as demonstrated by a Victorian home with a full-width extension featuring floor-to-ceiling Crittall doors. In this instance, a low sofa is chosen over a bulky divider to ensure an abundance of natural light throughout the space. The article also notes that the division of an open-plan area doesn't have to be perfectly equal; the size of each zone should be determined by its intended use and the inhabitants' lifestyle. For narrow rooms, dividing the space down the middle can be more efficient, and sofa placement can be influenced by adjacent doors, TV distance, or the need for play space. Kitchen islands are highlighted as natural dividers, with options for placing a sofa against them or creating a more sociable arrangement where sofas face the kitchen. The use of color is presented as a powerful tool for distinguishing areas, even within an aligned overall palette, such as a blue feature wall delineating the kitchen. Semi-open plans, often achieved with large archways and integrated shelving, provide visual separation while maintaining an open feel, particularly suitable for maximalist designs. For kitchen/dining/living spaces, a long, narrow dining table can cleverly act as a divider while retaining its functionality. Sunken floors, a retro design element, are also presented as effective in creating cozy, defined living areas within open spaces. Finally, for extra-large open-plan rooms, the advice is to create numerous smaller, intimate pockets to avoid an impersonal atmosphere, and to design the kitchen as a sociable hub that encourages interaction between both areas. #OpenPlanKitchen #LivingRoomDesign #HomeInteriors #SpacePlanning #ZoningTechniques #InteriorDesignTips #KitchenIsland #ColorPalette #NaturalLight
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+18
35 Open Kitchen Ideas For the Ultimate Entertaining Home
The article explores various design strategies for open-floor-plan kitchens, a popular and functional trend in modern homes. It provides 35 different ideas, categorized into distinct themes, to help homeowners maximize their open kitchen space and ensure it reflects their personal style. The suggestions range from aesthetic choices like color palettes and patterns to functional considerations such as storage and space utilization. One approach is the "Monochrome Kitchen," which emphasizes color-matching individual materials to create a unified and less overwhelming look. An example includes a Los Angeles duplex where custom cabinetry and mesh screens are painted in a pale, creamy gray. Conversely, the "Hodgepodge Heaven" concept encourages maximalism in larger spaces, using overarching themes like stripes and specific color families to maintain cohesiveness despite a mix of styles and objects, as seen in a Milan apartment. For those preferring a minimalist aesthetic, the "Spacious Open Concept" highlights the use of limited furniture and color, with strategic pops of color like a red stove hood, and ample hidden storage. In kitchens with good natural light, the "Light-Filled Open Kitchen" approach suggests leveraging bright, springy tones and lacquered furniture to enhance the space. An unusual but effective idea is the "Grotto Open Kitchen," which transforms a natural cave into a unique cooking and dining area, incorporating antique tiles and rough-hewn walls for a romantic touch. The article also delves into integrating kitchens within historic homes, as in the "Colorful Open-Concept Kitchen" example, where a French designer used contrasting dark gray and pink hues to refresh a 16th-century row house. For smaller living spaces, the "Multipurpose Open Kitchen" demonstrates how islands can double as workspaces and barstools can provide extra seating, as illustrated in a New York City apartment. "Chock-Full Open Kitchen" encourages filling large kitchens with color and antiques for a unique, inviting atmosphere, while the "Small Open-Concept Kitchen" shows how to create a breakfast room within a luxurious Ibiza crash pad. Maintaining a serene environment is addressed by the "Calm Open-Concept Kitchen," which suggests using a limited material palette, warm-toned wood, and modern appliances to achieve a neutral yet inviting space. The "Wood Open Kitchen" emphasizes natural wood elements for a cohesive and background-oriented design that facilitates social gatherings. For glamorous interiors, the "Glam Open Kitchen" showcases custom brass cabinets, marble countertops, and vintage barstools. Even in tiny spaces, "Small Open Space" demonstrates how to make the most of constraints by matching slanted ceilings with patterned floors and using paint to define cooking and dining zones. "Unconventional Open Concept" advises designing for freedom of movement, as in a Victorian Oxfordshire house with a breakfast nook that allows easy flow. The "Defined Open-Concept Kitchen" highlights the versatility of sliding doors to create separate or integrated dining areas. "Cool and Warm Kitchen" combines contrasting colors and materials for a visually stimulating space, while "Blurred Kitchen Lines" suggests blending material palettes between interconnected rooms for seamless transitions. "Patterned Open Kitchen" uses consistent patterns across surfaces to define the kitchen area. The "Luxe Kitchen" focuses on high-end finishes like Calacatta marble for kitchens visible from all angles. Finally, the "Green Lacquered Open Kitchen" in a Los Angeles apartment exemplifies creative space-saving solutions using rectangular volumes and lacquered surfaces. #KitchenDesign #OpenConcept #InteriorDecorating #HomeRenovation #SpaceMaximization #ColorSchemes #ModernKitchen #SmallKitchenIdeas
Sudans Post
Sudans Post
+4
7 clever ways to lay out an open-plan kitchen according to interior designers
Open-plan kitchens are a popular choice for modern homes, offering a spacious and social environment for cooking, dining, and relaxing. However, creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing open-plan kitchen requires careful planning and design. Interior designers employ several strategies to ensure these multi-functional spaces are successful. This article details seven clever ways to lay out an open-plan kitchen, drawing on expert advice. One effective layout strategy is the U-shape. While commonly associated with separate kitchens, a U-shaped layout can define the kitchen zone within an open-plan space, keeping it compact yet allowing for easy movement and transition to the living areas. Another key element is the kitchen island. An island can serve as a natural divider between the cooking area and the dining or living space, maintaining an airy feel. Incorporating a breakfast bar on the island facing the dining table provides informal seating options and helps create a safe distance from the primary cooking zone. Balancing the cooking zone is crucial, particularly when accommodating large appliances like a refrigerator and freezer column. Designers often recommend a traditional layout where the refrigerator and stove are placed at opposite ends of the kitchen, creating a balanced foundation for culinary activities. Centralizing the sink along the perimeter wall, sometimes with an additional sink on the island, optimizes the kitchen's workflow, adhering to the 'triangle theory' of efficient kitchen design. Cooktop placement is another critical consideration. Experts advise installing the cooktop against a wall rather than on an island. This placement enhances safety by keeping hot surfaces away from seating areas, especially important in a busy open-plan space where children or guests might be present. Wall placement also allows for more effective and budget-friendly ventilation solutions, such as a hood, and provides easier access to pots, pans, and potentially a pot filler faucet. To zone the room effectively without physical walls, tiered countertops can be used. A raised bar section, for instance, can visually separate the prep area from the seating or lounge zones. Alternatively, banquette seating or a dining nook can create a lower-level dining area, adding another layer of visual separation and functionality. Planning storage with the adjacent living and dining areas in mind is essential to maintain an uncluttered look. Options include floor-to-ceiling cabinets for maximum storage and a seamless aesthetic, or open shelving combined with closed storage to display decorative items and create an airy ambiance. Finally, working with existing windows can significantly influence the layout. Positioning the cooking zone near the largest window enhances the cooking experience with natural light and subtly defines the space. Similarly, locating the dining area near windows can offer pleasant views and add interest for diners. When styling an open-concept kitchen, it is recommended to treat different zones as distinct areas while maintaining cohesion through subtle details, such as consistent lighting materials, complementary area rugs, and a unified color palette. This approach ensures that the open-plan kitchen is not only functional but also visually harmonious and inviting. #OpenPlanKitchen #KitchenLayout #InteriorDesign #KitchenIsland #HomeDecoration #KitchenStorage #CookingZone #ZoningTechniques #HomeDesign
Homes and Gardens
Homes and Gardens
+17
Clever small kitchen layouts that will maximise even the tiniest of spaces
Making the most of a small kitchen space requires careful planning and strategic layout choices. The goal is to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing room that feels larger and more efficient, accommodating cooking, food preparation, and potentially dining or working areas. Several classic small kitchen layouts can be adapted to achieve this. One of the most natural choices for small kitchens is the L-shaped layout. This configuration allows for increased storage, countertop space, and designated work zones, all within a smaller footprint compared to other designs. To maximize utility in an L-shaped kitchen, it is advisable to use wall cabinets that extend up to the ceiling, not only for extra storage but also to minimize dust-gathering gaps. Incorporating space-saving internal fittings like pull-out larders and Le Mans or Carousel mechanisms can further enhance accessibility and storage capacity. Another effective strategy is to conceal bulky appliances. Utilizing a larder or tall cabinet can hide items such as air fryers, microwaves, and coffee machines, reducing visual clutter and making the kitchen appear more spacious and airy. For L-shaped kitchens lacking sufficient storage, bare walls can be utilized by installing shelves or hanging rails for additional decoration and functional storage. Replacing a solid wall between the kitchen and dining room with a peninsula is an effective way to open up the space, boost natural light, and create a sense of spaciousness. A peninsula serves as a versatile feature, offering extra worktop area, a place for dining or socializing, and essential storage, similar to an island but with one end connected to a wall. This layout is particularly useful in open-plan settings, helping to define the kitchen area without encroaching on circulation space. Peninsulas can also be designed to include a breakfast bar, further enhancing their functionality as a dining and social hub. Regardless of the chosen layout, adherence to the "working triangle" principle is crucial. This involves positioning the hob, fridge, and sink in a triangular formation to ensure they are within easy reach, optimizing workflow and efficiency. For compact spaces, selecting appropriate lighting is also vital. In kitchens with low ceilings, flush wall or ceiling lights are preferable to pendants to avoid a cramped feel. Narrow kitchens benefit from flush lighting to prevent larger fixtures from protruding into limited space. If space for dining is scarce, integrating a table into the kitchen layout, potentially as an extension of existing worktops, provides a practical solution. Extendable tables offer flexibility for accommodating more diners when needed without permanently occupying extra space. The double galley layout, with units on two opposing walls, is highly efficient as it eliminates space-wasting corner cupboards. This design allows for easy access to everything needed within a few steps. Similarly, a single galley kitchen, though smaller, maintains ergonomic principles. Creative solutions like induction hobs that can double as prep surfaces with a chopping board, or sinks with integrated cutting boards, can mitigate the issue of limited worktop space. Contrary to popular belief, an island can be incorporated into a small kitchen. Even a compact island of 60cm x 60cm can provide valuable prep space and storage. Islands on castors offer mobility, allowing them to be moved aside when not in use. Maintaining a minimum of 90cm of walking space around a fixed island is recommended for ease of movement. Booth seating, or banquettes, can be highly space-efficient in smaller and galley kitchens, offering both seating and storage and allowing more people to be seated than individual chairs. The U-shape kitchen layout is another excellent option for maximizing prep space and achieving the working triangle. To enhance the feeling of openness in a small kitchen, an internal window can be installed, connecting the kitchen visually with an adjacent dining area and providing additional light. Strategic use of design elements such as wall art and wallpaper on a dedicated wall, rather than filling all walls with cabinets, can make the space feel more homely and less utilitarian. Appliances such as hot water taps and induction hobs can save worktop space. Open shelving can also contribute to an open and spacious feel, particularly if high units or upper cabinetry are present. Choosing full-size fittings, such as a full-size range cooker or a double bowl sink, can make a small kitchen feel grand and spacious, contrasting with scaled-down appliances that might look compromised. Floor-to-ceiling storage can also enhance this effect. In open-plan designs, low-level kitchen layouts without traditional wall cabinets can create a more discreet and relaxing atmosphere. For kitchens that serve as high-traffic thoroughfares, incorporating narrower-depth base units (e.g., 30cm deep for storage instead of standard 56cm) can free up circulation space, improving traffic flow. Small kitchen organization benefits from a rigorous decluttering process, ensuring only essential and frequently used items are kept, and investing in visually appealing items for display. #SmallKitchenLayouts #KitchenDesign #SpaceSaving #LShapedKitchen #GalleyKitchen #KitchenIsland #PeninsulaKitchen #KitchenStorage #InteriorDesign
A
Australian Architectural Design
27 Open Kitchen Living Room Ideas That Make Your Home Feel Bigger and More Put Together
This article explores 27 distinct design ideas for integrating open-concept kitchen and living room spaces, emphasizing how this contemporary trend enhances both the perceived size and cohesive aesthetic of a home. The overarching theme is the evolution of open-concept design in 2025, moving beyond simple layouts to incorporate sophisticated zoning, luxurious materials, and multifunctional elements that achieve a balance of expansiveness and intimacy. The suggestions range from minimalistic elegance to bold, artistic contrasts, catering to diverse aesthetic preferences while focusing on functionality and style. Each idea presented details specific approaches to color palettes, material choices, furniture arrangements, and lighting to create unique atmospheres. For instance, the "Warm Minimalist Elegance" concept utilizes honeyed wood, creamy stone, and sculptural lighting to foster a harmonious and intimate feel. "Contemporary Soft Neutrals" employs light oak finishes, neutral upholstery, and sculpted accents to create a calm, composed environment. "Botanical Sophistication" integrates deep green sectionals and floral patterns to achieve a rich yet comfortable setting. The "Soft Luxe with a Curve" design focuses on plush, rounded furniture and a warm, whispery palette of oatmeals and off-whites for a modern, luxurious feel. Further ideas include "Artistic Contrast," which pairs clean modernism with bold abstract art and sculptural black accents; "Scandinavian Sunlight," highlighting pale oak ceilings, skylights, and light textures for a bright, intentional living space; and "Mirror-Gloss Glamour," incorporating reflective surfaces and polished materials for a high-shine, opulent look. "Retro Chic Meets High Contrast" blends sculptural furniture with checkerboard tiles and brass finishes, drawing inspiration from the 1970s. "Parisian Atelier Vibes" emphasizes soft, tonal palettes, arched cabinetry, and vintage lighting to evoke a refined and romantic atmosphere. Other concepts delve into earthy modernist calm with rust velvet seating and soft concrete tones, sculptural pops with vibrant accents and unique lighting, and sleek, sun-kissed designs featuring high ceilings and blonde wood. City luxe panoramas leverage architectural curves and neutral styling to maximize urban views, while walnut dreams focus on rich, dark wood for a deep, inviting warmth. Resort living at home uses towering arched windows, marble floors, and fresh white upholstery to mimic a luxury hotel ambiance. Cozy urban jungles incorporate plants, warm wood, and mixed textures for a personal, lived-in feel. Disappearing kitchens and modern arches emphasize seamless integration and sculptural elements, respectively, while layered luxe simplicity focuses on subtle impacts through soft colors and curated details. Warm Mediterranean cool integrates wicker textures, warm wood, and bright layouts, contrasted with deep navy cabinetry. Soft lines and soft luxe create a serene, refined retreat using muted tones and gentle separation of spaces. Calm meets couture blends architectural lines with plush textures and curated patterns, and bold, joyful designs feature oversized marble, sculptural furniture, and vibrant accents. Elevated everyday concepts merge farmhouse aesthetics with refined layouts, and midday sun and mid-century feels capture bright, sculptural spaces with subtle vintage nods. Finally, blue crush explores moody navy and crisp white contrasts for a compact, stylish space, and classic comfort remixed offers timeless, cohesive, and textured open layouts. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #OpenConcept #KitchenLivingRoom #ModernLiving #SpaceOptimization #HomeDecor #DesignTrends #ArchitecturalStyle
S
Sarasota Magazine
+31
Small kitchen ideas – 31 ways to make a compact cooking space practical and pretty
The kitchen, often considered the heart of the home, has evolved into a versatile living and even working space. In many homes, particularly in the UK, limited space necessitates creative solutions for small kitchens. This article provides 31 design ideas and expert tips to transform compact cooking areas into practical and aesthetically pleasing environments. The foundational aspect of small kitchen design is careful layout planning. Experts emphasize utilizing every inch of space, suggesting the traditional 'kitchen triangle' of fridge, oven, and sink remains relevant even in confined areas. The article advocates for strategic color and material choices, recommending mirrored or light-colored splashbacks to enhance spaciousness through reflection. While a bright palette is often associated with small spaces, the article encourages the use of color to create an inviting atmosphere. Several specific design strategies are presented. For a tidy and clutter-free look, a simple Scandi scheme with plywood kitchen cupboards is recommended, offering an affordable and minimalist aesthetic. Storage is a critical consideration; the article suggests rethinking traditional cupboard space and utilizing wall-mounted rods for hanging utensils and pans, freeing up drawers and cabinets. Incorporating seating in a small kitchen is also addressed, with recommendations for peninsulas over full islands to save floor space, paired with easily tuckable bar stools. The article delves into material and color choices, suggesting a Scandi-inspired blend of wood and white for an airy feel, complemented by warm lighting. Contrary to common apprehension, bold colors are encouraged, as they can draw a room inward, creating warmth. Open shelving is presented as a way to add light and an open feel, allowing for decorative display while maintaining essential storage with floor-to-ceiling cupboards in other areas. Vertical tongue and groove wood panelling is highlighted for adding character and a farmhouse style, suitable for country kitchen ideas. Tiling strategies include using matt tiles in light, natural tones or highly reflective gloss tiles to create a sense of space, advising against small or heavily patterned tiles. A painted ceiling in an unexpected color can visually increase room height. Functionality is prioritized, with emphasis on understanding daily kitchen use to inform appliance and storage decisions. Hiding appliances in a breakfast nook or 'appliance garage' keeps surfaces clear, optimizing small kitchen design. The addition of art, whether a gallery wall or a single piece, is proposed to add personality without cluttering countertops. Practical solutions for appliances include opting for slimline models to maximize storage. Textured walls, such as limewash finishes, are suggested to add depth and warmth, especially when combined with open shelving. Rethinking cupboard doors with stylish cupboard curtains can add a homely touch and hide clutter. For dining, narrow tables pushed against walls with bench seating are ideal for small kitchen dining areas. Building a mini peninsula in a galley kitchen offers additional storage, visual zoning, and a casual gathering spot. Distracting with a bold, large-patterned kitchen island or surface can draw attention away from the kitchen's size. Sleek, handleless slab cupboards in lighter shades or neutral colors contribute to a streamlined, less cluttered appearance. Kitchen booth ideas are presented as space-saving seating solutions, particularly when integrated with existing cabinetry. Combining open and closed shelving allows for both practical storage and a contemporary aesthetic, especially when darker units are kept to floor level. Partitions, especially glass half-partitions, can effectively zone a small kitchen without sacrificing openness. Thinking vertically by utilizing wall height for storage is crucial in one-wall kitchen layouts. Clever flooring choices can zone a petite kitchen-diner, with distinct styles for cooking and dining areas. The concept of 'broken plan' kitchens, using full or half partitions, offers flexibility in defining spaces. Regarding flooring materials, larger tiles (e.g., 900 x 600) or wood-effect porcelain with complementary grout are recommended to create the illusion of a larger space. Glass door display cabinets are advised for floor-to-ceiling units to enhance openness. A combined extractor induction hob saves space by eliminating the need for a bulky overhead hood. Relocating laundry appliances to a bathroom or stacking them in a cupboard can free up valuable kitchen space. Investing in a supersize double sink is a practical alternative to a dishwasher in small kitchens, providing separate areas for washing and dirty dishes. Maximizing every corner for storage, decluttering infrequently used items, and utilizing wall and door space with rails, hooks, and extra shelves are essential. Finally, adopting a 'Marie Kondo' approach to worktops by minimizing clutter, coupled with handleless cupboard designs, contributes to a sleek and expansive feel. #SmallKitchenIdeas #KitchenDesign #SpaceSavingSolutions #HomeRenovation #InteriorDecor #StorageHacks #KitchenLayouts #ScandiStyle #ColorInDesign
A
Australian Architectural Design
+4
15 genius small kitchen design ideas to maximise your space
This article offers comprehensive design ideas for maximizing space in small kitchens, focusing on layout, color choices, dining arrangements, budget-friendly solutions, island integration, and lighting. The central theme revolves around making compact cooking areas both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Key recommendations include adhering to the 'kitchen triangle' principle, ensuring the sink, cooker, and fridge are optimally positioned for workflow. The article suggests innovative strategies such as relocating large appliances to alternative spaces or opting for slimline versions to free up valuable counter and floor space. Maximizing awkward corners with specialized storage solutions, like revolving cupboard organizers, is also highlighted as an efficient use of often-wasted areas. Color psychology plays a significant role in making a small kitchen appear larger and more inviting. A whitewash is recommended for creating a sense of openness and calmness, with suggestions to incorporate pops of color through plants or decor to avoid a sterile feel. Alternatively, cheerful yellow is advised for kitchens lacking natural light, while green is presented as a color that can promote healthier eating habits. A clever trick mentioned is painting kitchen cupboards and walls in the same hue to create the illusion of a more expansive space. The article also addresses small kitchen diners, suggesting extendable tables that can be made compact for daily use and emphasizing consistent color schemes throughout the combined area to enhance the perception of size. For those on a budget, the article provides practical tips like utilizing portable storage solutions, such as movable carts, which offer flexibility and can be shifted between dining and kitchen areas. Updating cupboard handles is presented as a cost-effective way to refresh the kitchen's look, with handle-free designs or elongated fixtures recommended for a streamlined, minimalistic finish. The misconception that kitchen islands are only for large homes is debunked, with advice on selecting islands or breakfast bars that fit the proportions of a small kitchen, serving as both dining areas and space dividers. Maintaining a clutter-free island surface is crucial for preserving the illusion of spaciousness. Finally, the importance of effective lighting is underscored for small kitchens. The article advises maximizing natural light through windows, skylights, and French doors. For artificial lighting, a combination of bright task lighting for cooking and warmer ambient lighting for socializing is recommended to adapt the kitchen's mood and functionality throughout the day. These diverse strategies aim to transform small kitchens into highly efficient, attractive, and comfortable spaces. #SmallKitchenDesign #KitchenLayout #SpaceMaximization #KitchenStorage #ColorChoices #KitchenLighting #BudgetKitchen #KitchenIslands #HomeDecor
PRWeb
PRWeb
+7
Open plan kitchen extensions – ideas and design advice from the experts to get them right
Open-plan kitchen extensions have become a highly sought-after feature in modern homes, offering expansive, light-filled spaces for living, dining, and entertaining. The primary appeal of these extensions lies in their ability to foster interaction and provide design flexibility. However, achieving a comfortable and functional open-plan layout requires careful consideration of zoning, connection, and lighting. Zoning is crucial in an open-plan space to define distinct areas for cooking, eating, entertaining, and relaxation. Designers emphasize the importance of understanding a family's lifestyle before finalizing a layout. Once zones are identified, elements such as wall treatments, joinery, furniture, bookcases, rugs, lighting, color, and art should be used to create visual cohesion throughout the space. While large, garden-facing islands are popular, U-shaped kitchens or peninsulas can offer similar functionality with added cabinetry, acting as breakfast bars and connecting kitchen and dining areas. Lighting is another critical aspect. While roof lights provide ample natural light during the day, evening lighting requires careful planning. Task lighting for cooking areas is essential and should be integrated into the ceiling space, with flexible angled spotlights or bars fitted across skylights serving as alternative solutions. The goal for kitchen remodels, especially in open-plan designs, is to create a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and enduringly functional, capable of performing well for decades. Achieving longevity in design often involves selecting a simple material palette and ensuring seamless connectivity between dining spaces and the kitchen. Direct eye contact and easy dialogue between those working in the kitchen and those at the dining or breakfast table enhance the social aspect of open-plan living. Using the same flooring throughout the extension creates a cohesive look, and direct access to the outdoors helps integrate the natural environment into the living space. Ten distinct design approaches for open-plan kitchen extensions highlight various successful implementations. These include creating a 'glass box' extension that maximizes the connection between the home and garden, using a seamless flow of indoor-outdoor flooring. Another approach involves mixing modern and traditional materials, such as exposed brick walls and dark grey cabinetry, while integrating large sliding doors to expand the usable area into the garden. Incorporating wood in ceilings further enhances warmth and links indoor and outdoor spaces. Calm neutral color schemes, particularly those utilizing natural stone for islands, splashbacks, and flooring, offer elegant and unified aesthetics, suitable even for smaller extensions. Square-shaped extensions are favored for communal living, allowing residents to see and interact with each other, with comfortable seating and harmonious color schemes. Double-aspect designs in Victorian homes demonstrate how clever planning can open up narrow spaces, bringing in extra light and creating access from multiple points. Family-centric extensions prioritize large kitchen areas with natural light, alongside integrated home offices and dining spaces. Cohesive design is achieved by using a unified palette of colors and materials across different functional areas, with subtle changes in paint color or flooring to delineate zones without sacrificing flow. Sympathetic additions to traditional homes, such as glass sections or infills, merge modern extensions with existing architecture, exposing original materials like stone and incorporating Crittall-style windows. Finally, large, square extensions can incorporate side returns, creating expansive dining areas with bench seating and multiple access points to the garden, all unified by complementary color schemes and warm wooden furniture to create a calming and unified environment with tactile materials and mixed metal accents. #OpenPlanKitchen #KitchenExtension #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #Zoning #LightingDesign #MaterialSelection #IndoorOutdoorLiving #RenovationIdeas #KitchenRemodel
Free Fire Mania
Free Fire Mania
29 Open Kitchen Design Ideas If Your Layout Never Feels Fully Connected to the Living Space
This compilation presents 29 open kitchen design ideas for 2025, focusing on creating interconnected, bright, and functional living spaces. The designs emphasize seamless layouts, organic materials, and warm modern styling to integrate cooking, dining, and lounging areas. Current trends highlighted include softer color palettes, sculptural lighting fixtures, and efficient storage solutions, all contributing to brighter, more social, and cohesive environments. The article aims to provide inspiration for both extensive renovations and minor aesthetic upgrades, ensuring enhanced flow, functionality, and contemporary appeal. The ideas showcased aim to make homes feel spacious, inviting, and current with design trends. The featured designs span various aesthetic sensibilities. 'Warm Minimalism Vibes' exemplifies clean, warm, and uncluttered spaces with wood paneling and subtle lighting, emphasizing simplicity. 'Calm Luxe with a Twist' employs muted taupe tones, layered lighting, and sleek cabinetry, incorporating natural elements like a central tree and sculptural light fixtures. 'Earthy & Edgy' combines black cabinets with walnut tones, woven textures, and greenery for a grounded, moody, yet warm feel. 'West Coast Casual' offers an open, bright, and relaxed aesthetic with light wood and matte black accents, complemented by natural textures and warm flooring, centered around a large island. 'Moody + Modern' integrates deep grey cabinetry, marble counters, and gold lighting for a bold yet elegant atmosphere, enhanced by ribbed wood detailing. 'Organic Modern Perfection' focuses on curated casualness with warm wood tones, layered lighting, and creamy islands with fluted accents. 'Urban Jungle Meets Modern Noir' features black cabinetry, open wood shelving, and abundant plant life, creating a calm and cool environment with textured tile. 'Understated Sophistication' uses matte surfaces, flat-front cabinets, and clever lighting to achieve a quietly luxurious and rich-toned space. 'Coastal Clean' presents a refreshing, breezy, and polished design with creamy cabinetry and lightly veined marble. 'Modern Farmhouse Mix' blends modern and rustic elements with black cabinetry, thick wood countertops, and handmade ceramics. 'Sleek Simplicity' showcases minimalist design with clean-lined cabinetry, soft taupe tones, and creamy marble. 'Earthy Elegance' combines natural textures like wood and stone with a warm, neutral backdrop. 'Regal Revival' features forest green cabinetry, polished brass, and glass-front uppers for an opulent yet accessible look. 'Cozy Country Charm' evokes a warm, welcoming feel with butcher-block countertops, brick backsplash, and farmhouse accents. 'Soft Sage & Sunshine' uses pastel green cabinetry, exposed brick, and wood tones for a fresh country atmosphere. 'Deep & Moody Modern' employs rich green tiles, warm wood cabinetry, and industrial lighting for a bold yet grounded aesthetic. 'Fresh Traditional' blends heritage and modern elements with blue-gray cabinetry and built-in pantry storage. 'Wine & Warmth' presents a high-design yet homey space with a merlot island, creamy stone, and rustic wood beams. 'Timeless Cool' features navy cabinetry, bold hardware, and dramatic pendant lighting for a confident and curated look. 'Soft Luxe in Bloom' offers a calming design with ivory cabinetry, natural wood stools, and greenery. 'Golden Hour Glow' achieves a transitional vibe with bright colors, contrasting island, and brass pendant lights. 'Cozy Country Luxe' provides a sophisticated farmhouse feel with white-on-white cabinetry and wood beams. 'Monochrome Majesty' is clean, chic, and glam with black and white palettes and gold accents. 'Modern Noir' combines dark cabinets, moody lighting, and sleek surfaces, highlighted by a waterfall marble island. 'Bold Meets Organic' contrasts wood grain and black matte finishes with a marble slab and copper accents. 'Sandstone Serenity' offers a thoughtful, minimalist design with warm neutrals, soft lighting, and natural stone. 'Classic Elegance' features coffered ceilings, a navy island, and creamy cabinetry for a traditional yet refined look. Finally, 'Industrial Cool' presents a bold, sleek design with matte black and concrete textures, while 'Vintage Farmhouse Charm' blends old and new with open shelves, shaker cabinets, and glass pendants. #OpenKitchenDesign #HomeInterior #KitchenTrends2025 #ModernKitchen #InteriorDesignIdeas #HomeRenovation #KitchenRemodel #DesignInspiration #KitchenDecor
TheCoolist
TheCoolist
+7
Ten one-wall kitchens designed by architects that free up floorspace
This article showcases ten diverse one-wall kitchen designs from Dezeen's archive, highlighting their effectiveness in maximizing floorspace and promoting open-plan living. These linear kitchen configurations are particularly popular in compact interiors but also find utility in larger open-concept spaces, allowing for a less cluttered aesthetic compared to layouts incorporating islands, breakfast bars, or peninsulas. Each featured project demonstrates a unique approach to materials, functionality, and integration within its respective home environment. One example is the Setagaya Flat in Japan by Naruse Inokuma Architects, which features a utilitarian design with cement-rendered walls, plywood partitions, and a pine floor. Its kitchen runs along one wall of an open-plan dining area, utilizing parallel wooden shelves and a cantilevered work surface instead of traditional cabinets. In contrast, the Hubert apartment in France by Septembre showcases a kitchen-dining room where distinct flooring materials, wood and poured concrete, delineate the two zones. This design includes white units, a marble splashback, and a countertop, with wall-mounted cabinets strategically placed to accommodate a window, all within a space previously divided by a narrow galley. Larissa Johnston's Islington maisonette in London incorporates a one-wall kitchen built into a plywood volume, which also serves to separate the kitchen diner from a staircase. This design thoughtfully combines the warmth of plywood with industrial elements such as a poured concrete floor and stainless steel finishes for the splashback, counter, and oven. Studio Razavi's Apartment XVII in France features a sea-green kitchen installed alongside an antique stone fireplace, characterized by a slate worktop and a geometric arrangement of shelves, high-level cabinets, and a two-tone zigzag splashback. For a different aesthetic, Sheet/RockLA's Mountain cabin in the US presents a kitchen built under a gabled roof, featuring extensive plywood shelving, cupboards, and drawers. A central sink beneath a rectangular window is flanked by overhead shelves, reflecting a rustic yet organized approach. David Van Galen’s Little House/Big Shed, also in the US, utilizes Douglas fir cabinetry for its kitchen. This design innovatively replaces a traditional splashback with openable windows that offer forest views, complemented by a large clerestory window for additional light. The MAP House in the UK by SAM Architects reimagines a London mews house kitchen with a workshop-like feel, employing colorful stained-plywood units, a grey pegboard for flexible storage, a polished concrete floor, and a linoleum worktop. Giannikis’ Waterfront Nikis Apartment in Greece features pastel-green cabinetry that provides a striking contrast against original geometric red floor tiles. White marble worksurfaces and splashback add a neutral balance to the vibrant color scheme. EBBA Architects’ warehouse conversion in the UK demonstrates a minimal, clean-lined one-wall kitchen in a white palette, situated beneath a mezzanine. This design integrates cabinetry with an adjacent wooden shelving unit in the living room, using a consistent white surfacing material for the splashback and worksurfaces. Lastly, Fala Atelier's Apartment on a Mint Floor in Portugal incorporates a blue-hued kitchen into a wedge-shaped space. This design is notable for its dark-veined marble splashback, two-tone cabinets, and sliding glass doors that open onto a terrace, creating a compact yet connected culinary area. These projects collectively illustrate how one-wall kitchens can be tailored to various spatial requirements and design preferences, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. #OneWallKitchens #SpaceSavingDesign #InteriorDesign #KitchenDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #OpenPlanLiving #ResidentialInteriors #HomeDecor #CompactKitchens
N
newhopefh.com
+16
19 of the best open-plan kitchens and dining rooms
The article highlights the growing popularity and aesthetic appeal of open-plan kitchen and dining areas in modern homes, showcasing 19 examples that demonstrate how these spaces have become the central hub for family, friends, and guests. Traditional kitchen isolation is a thing of the past, with contemporary design emphasizing interconnected living. Island benches are noted as a key feature, providing both increased workspace and storage, while formal dining areas are now seamlessly integrated with kitchen spaces through cohesive palette and spatial planning. The featured designs illustrate various approaches to creating functional and visually appealing open-plan zones. One example from a Sydney home utilizes blue hues and banquette seating extending from the kitchen island, offering both casual and formal dining options. Another instance involves a modern black barn on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, where pitched ceilings and strong outdoor connections enhance the sense of openness in its combined living, dining, and kitchen area. A Camp Cove home demonstrates nuanced design, using different ceiling finishes and a demarcated entryway to allow the kitchen and dining areas to stand out individually while still functioning harmoniously as a unified space. Material and color consistency are critical elements in achieving a successful open-plan layout, as seen in a breezy Byron Bay home where a shared palette ensures seamless transitions between the kitchen and dining spaces. Other examples include a Northcote home where a subtle split-level design separates the kitchen and dining areas while maintaining connectivity, and a renovated 1930s family home featuring a pavilion extension that creates an expansive, entertainer-friendly open-plan zone with contemporary industrial Scandi-style updates. The article further details a Georgian-style home in Berrima that combines a breakfast bar with a formal dining room within a single open space. An Edwardian-style 1940s house in Geelong incorporates a butler's pantry, simplifying hosting within its open-plan family gathering area. A sustainable low-tox home in the Byron hinterland region exemplifies indoor/outdoor flow, with its kitchen directly accessible from both dining and alfresco entertaining zones. An interior designer's Bondi beach house showcases a textural palette that creates movement and flow throughout its open-plan kitchen and dining area. A country farmhouse designed with traditional elements like exposed ceiling beams is modernized with matte black accents to maintain a fresh aesthetic. A luxurious pavilion-style home on Sydney’s northern beaches features a flow-on design specifically engineered for ease of movement, demonstrating how open-plan layouts can serve practical needs. A coastal home in Torquay uses VJ panelled cabinetry to create a continuous visual link between the kitchen and dining areas, expanding storage and space. An Edwardian semi in Melbourne was transformed with a light and bright renovation, incorporating an upward/outward extension to enhance sophistication and functionality. A Scandi-style family home emphasizes meticulous planning in its kitchen design, focusing on layout, storage, finishes, and natural light to optimize the open-plan area. A Mooloolaba beach house features a pitched ceiling with exposed beams, subtly separating the kitchen and dining from the living area while retaining the benefits of open-plan design. Finally, an industrial warehouse-inspired home in Fremantle prioritizes a strong indoor-outdoor connection, with rooms extending into the garden to create the feeling of one large, integrated space. The home of bellaMumma’s Nikki Yazxhi in Sydney showcases a serene palette and subtle level changes that integrate the kitchen and dining spaces seamlessly. #OpenPlanLiving #KitchenDesign #DiningRoomDesign #HomeInteriors #SpatialPlanning #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeRenovation #ModernHomes #AustralianDesign
Inside Ottawa Valley
Inside Ottawa Valley
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How can you master the art of open-plan living? We asked the experts for answers
With home sizes decreasing, the integration of kitchen and living areas into a single open-plan space has become a common design approach. This method offers a sense of freedom, but requires careful planning to avoid a large, undefined area, especially as homes increasingly serve multiple functions, including workspaces. Claire Garner, an interior designer, emphasizes the importance of establishing visual and functional zones within open-plan layouts. Thoughtful design and furnishing choices can transform these spaces into cohesive, inviting areas that accommodate various activities. Key considerations for successful open-plan design include the flow of movement, natural light, and defining a clear purpose for each zone. In open-plan kitchens, balancing design with practicality is crucial, addressing acoustics, privacy, and storage. Strategic lighting can further differentiate zones while maintaining a seamless connection throughout the space. The article presents eight examples of open-plan homes that demonstrate effective strategies for layout, flow, color, furniture, and function. One simple method for division involves using furniture, such as a sofa, to separate a kitchen from a living area, with a rug enhancing this effect. Color schemes can also be used to distinguish spaces, with clever overlaps creating visual harmony, as seen with rosy tones linking a sofa, rug, and backsplash. For narrow rooms, instead of aligning furniture along walls, dividing the room down the middle is often more efficient. While a one-meter walkway is recommended in the kitchen, sofa placement can be flexible, depending on factors like door locations, TV distance, or the need for play space. Kitchen islands naturally divide open-plan spaces. A sofa can be placed against an island with single-sided cupboards, or a more sociable arrangement can be created by facing sofas towards the kitchen. Color can also serve as a visual divider; for instance, a feature wall can define a kitchen area without a physical barrier, while maintaining a consistent overall palette. Semi-open-plan spaces, featuring large archways with integrated shelving, offer a way to delineate areas while preserving an open feel, particularly suitable for maximalist aesthetics. Retro design elements, such as sunken floors or conversation pits from the 1950s-70s, remain effective in open-plan layouts for creating distinct, cozy corners. In larger open-plan homes, arranging the space to include multiple smaller pockets—like a kitchen with a breakfast bar, seating nook, dining area, and window seat—can prevent the area from feeling cavernous and impersonal. For sociable kitchens, islands designed to accommodate guests can encourage interaction. Positioning sofas at right angles to the kitchen further facilitates conversation between the cooking and living areas, promoting a truly connected environment. #OpenPlanLiving #InteriorDesign #HomeDecorating #KitchenDesign #LivingRoomDesign #SpacePlanning #FurniturePlacement #ColorSchemes #HomeOrganization
The Lineup
The Lineup
36 Open Kitchen Ideas for Easy Cooking and Entertaining
Open kitchen layouts, first introduced by Frank Lloyd Wright in the 1950s, have become a staple in modern homes due to their ability to foster interaction and improve airflow. This design philosophy encourages casual family meals and effortless entertaining by removing the isolation often associated with traditional closed-off cooking spaces. Beyond enhancing social dynamics, open kitchens contribute to better ventilation, allowing cooking odors to dissipate more readily throughout the living area. The article explores a diverse range of open kitchen ideas, suitable for various home sizes and aesthetic preferences, from new designs to refreshing existing spaces. Several design considerations are highlighted for creating an effective open kitchen. For large spaces, a spacious layout can be tailored to family needs, incorporating elements like islands and peninsulas for additional counter space and storage. Integrating the kitchen seamlessly with dining areas is key, often achieved by connecting it to a cozy dining nook with built-in banquettes, which also serve as buffet space during gatherings. Maintaining stylistic consistency between the open kitchen and adjacent rooms is crucial to avoid clashes, using cohesive seating, color palettes, and natural wood elements to create a unified flow, particularly in smaller kitchens where this can make the space appear larger. Modern open kitchens frequently feature wide walkways, ample natural light through numerous windows, and thoughtful placement of doorways to ensure fluid movement between the kitchen, living areas, and staircases. Neutral tones are often employed to establish a calming and comfortable atmosphere. For smaller open kitchens, a peninsula extending from a wall can be more space-efficient than a central island, providing continuous counter space and a casual seating area. Alternative seating options, such as round tables and chairs, are also effective when space is limited. Design elements like open shelving can make a U-shaped kitchen feel more like a living space and blend better with surrounding dining and entertainment areas. Incorporating unique features, such as colored paint on islands or tall bookshelves, adds personality and utility. Smaller open kitchens may benefit from extending cabinetry and shelving into the living space for additional storage, ideal for entertaining items or decorative dishes. Furniture-like islands or worktops can lighten the space and are often more affordable than built-in options, offering easy access to regularly used items. The article emphasizes that open kitchens create a welcoming and casual feel, integrating the kitchen with dining and living rooms to form expansive family spaces. Tall cabinetry and central islands provide ample storage, facilitating an open floor plan that flows naturally into dining areas, which is excellent for entertaining. Strategic layout planning is also discussed, such as prioritizing unimpeded traffic flow in homes where the kitchen serves as a thoroughfare, potentially using a kitchen table instead of a bulky island and benches that can be tucked away. Decorative casing can be used in older, traditional homes to open up the kitchen while maintaining architectural integrity. Dividing long kitchens into zones for cooking, prep, and relaxation, with island seating and comfortable armchairs, is another practical approach. Antique butcher-block islands can replace built-in ones in traditional kitchens, complementing elements like plaster range hoods and brass fixtures. Vaulted ceilings enhance the spaciousness of open kitchens, transforming them into gathering hubs. In compact open kitchens, smart use of space includes tucked-away layouts and shared storage between the kitchen and living room. To integrate open kitchens with nearby living spaces, consistency in paint colors, wall treatments, and material repetition (e.g., metals in hardware matching decorative accents) is recommended. Open galley kitchens can maximize a small footprint, with open shelving helping to create a sense of spaciousness. Large islands with seating, storage, and premium countertops can function as luxurious furniture pieces in extensive open-concept layouts. Minimalist aesthetics are achieved by reducing upper storage and matching kitchen finishes to the rest of the room. Freestanding furniture, such as butcher-block work tables or adapted counter-height tables, can add personality and a traditional feel. Painting cabinetry in warm, inviting colors can refresh the space and create a cohesive look across rooms. Adding alternate seating, like desk-height tables, can provide extra office space. Distinctions between areas in an open plan can be created using natural wood beams and darker furnishings, even while maintaining a unified color scheme. Creative use of color and texture through unique materials can add visual interest. Maximizing natural light by prioritizing windows on external walls and using upper walls for cabinets is beneficial. Disguising large banks of cabinetry with complementary or contrasting paint colors helps integrate them into the living space. Long islands with glam finishes can transform narrow kitchens, and opening one side of a galley kitchen can be an option with adequate structural support. One-wall kitchens with floor-to-ceiling cabinetry and a central island can maintain a compact work triangle while benefiting from natural light. Repeating colors and materials visually connects spaces, while different lighting fixtures can distinguish areas. Even small L-shaped open kitchens can connect seamlessly with dining areas and family rooms, using runners to define traffic flow and mobile islands for separation. Remodeling closed-off kitchens by removing walls can create L-shaped layouts and space for large islands, opening them to adjacent living areas. Expanding entryways with archways can increase kitchen accessibility and merge industrial styles with traditional home decor. Finally, a cohesive color scheme, using dominant colors like white with bright accents in accessories and dishware, and a bridging wall color, ensures a natural flow throughout open-concept homes. Repurposing rooms, such as transforming a family room into an open kitchen with a seating area and converting an adjacent bathroom into a pantry, demonstrates creative space utilization during remodels. #OpenKitchenLayout #KitchenDesign #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ModernLiving #SpacePlanning #KitchenStorage #EntertainingSpace #FloorPlan
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Better Homes & Gardens