| |
In the past, kitchens were built as far away from a family’s living quarters as possible. And in larger homes, kitchens were often completely separate from the house itself. Today, however, the kitchen has become the heart of the modern home, where families do a great deal of their day-to-day living. This is why many homeowners, builders and renovators are fast embracing open plan living – which basically sees the merging of the family, living/dining room and the kitchen.
By LILLIAN KITHIA
One of the main reasons why open plan living is becoming very popular is because with the open space, meal preparation and not just meal sharing, becomes a true family affair. |
 |
In a well-designed open space with fireplaces and TVs, comfortable islands and desks wired for Internet access the kids can also do their homework on a computer and TV can be enjoyed while parents cook.
The best open living rooms also bring together a functional kitchen with a truly comfortable living space where family members can relax in the great room before or after meals. While the absence of boundary walls create the effect of airiness and freshness in a room. Creating a wonderful open living space
Organization
The key to designing a wonderful open living space that really serves its purpose is organization. Have casual but defined “activity zones,” including cooking and food preparation, storage and dishwashing, informal dining, studying, relaxing and enjoying media entertainment areas.
Unity
 |
Unity is another important element of successful great room design. Repeating elements such as flooring, light fixtures, cabinetry and trim throughout all the activity zones gives the room a cohesive look. Let the cheery hardwood flooring used in the kitchen area extend beyond the kitchen area into the rest of the family room. Let the open shelving for books and the television in the living room area also match with the kitchen cabinets. This allows the space to look like one big room instead of two rooms with the wall removed.
Furnishing will also have a great effect on the general look of the room. For the best effect, use the same style of furniture in the whole room and if possible in other rooms as well.
For example when you use floral upholstery on the dinner set in the kitchen area, have the same fabric used on the throw pillows in the living area.
|
For many homeowners, combining the kitchen with another existing, room is the best way to create a great room. This may involve knocking out a wall, or even expanding into the garage.
Whichever way you choose to create your open living space, ensure that the final product is a room you enjoy coming home to at the end of a busy day.
|
|
