How to Style an Open Plan Kitchen

We all love a light, airy and spacious open plan kitchen. Styling it can prove a challenge as we all want to retain the feeling of space but need to use it in a way that is both practical and efficient.  If this resonates with you, here are a few key but clever ways to style your own open plan kitchen and dining area.

Image: Richmond Kitchens

Before you do anything, be sure to have built-in appliances where possible, keep the worktops clutter-free and store away all those appliances that you don’t use daily.

The next step is to define the zones. That’s right, create distinct zones for cooking, dining, and living. This makes it easier to organise your kitchen, keep it clean, serve dinner and even supervise the children as they do their homework in the kitchen island.

It is true to say that you can use furniture, rugs, lighting, and even the layout to differentiate these spaces and still maintain a sense of continuity but nothing is more important to keep this flow as colour. 

The colour you choose to decorate this space is key in making sure the feel of the room follows seamlessly from one room into another. This doesn’t mean you use the same colour everywhere but rather you use a combination of colours that complement each other in an easy and effortless way.

PRO TIP: For best use of colour remember The 60/30/10 Colour Rule!

When it comes to arranging the furniture, do it in a way that encourages movement and conversation. Seating areas, for example, can be created by the kitchen island to make it more sociable but it should not replace the dining table.

Talking of the kitchen island, consider it a focal point. Use pendant lighting, decorative stools, and statement pieces to dress it. If you are unsure of what to display, I find that a collection of plants is a great way to add interest to the island. If you choose plants, start with succulents they are easy to care for and slow growing.

To personalise your open plan kitchen & dining area, have some open shelves incorporated into the design so you can display your stylish kitchenware, cookbooks or decorative items. This will serve to add interest as well as keep the items you frequently use more easily accessible.

One final thing… kitchens are the perfect place to make memories, and that is more important than any aesthetics so go and enjoy your space.

A happy kitchen should smell of family dinners, sound like laughter and feel like a happy childhood.

Image credits: Richmond Kitchens. Kitchen Manufacturer: Leitch. Appliances: Bora