The Rise of Open Plan Living
Open plan living has become increasingly popular in recent years. The idea of having a space that blends your kitchen and living room together has become a staple of modern design. This style of living has been embraced by many homeowners, especially those with small homes, as it allows for more natural light and creates the illusion of more space.
Designing Your Open Plan Kitchen Living Room
When designing your open plan kitchen living room, it is important to consider the flow of the space. You want to create a seamless transition between the two areas, while also ensuring that each area serves its intended purpose. This can be achieved through the use of different flooring, furniture, and lighting.
Choosing the Right Flooring
One of the key elements of an open plan kitchen living room is the flooring. Choosing the right flooring can help to define each area and create a sense of separation. For example, you could use tiles or hardwood flooring in the kitchen, and then use a plush carpet or area rug in the living room.
Furniture Placement
Furniture placement is also important in an open plan space. You want to create distinct areas for cooking, dining, and relaxing. This can be achieved through the use of furniture, such as a kitchen island or breakfast bar, that defines the kitchen area. In the living room, you could use a sectional sofa or accent chairs to create a cozy seating area.
Lighting
Lighting is another important element of an open plan kitchen living room. You want to ensure that each area is well-lit, but also that the lighting complements the design of the space. For example, you could use pendant lights over the kitchen island and a chandelier or floor lamp in the living room.
The Benefits of Open Plan Living
There are many benefits to open plan living. One of the biggest advantages is the amount of natural light that is let into the space. This can help to create a bright and airy atmosphere, which can be especially beneficial in small homes. Another benefit of open plan living is the flexibility it offers. You can easily entertain guests while cooking in the kitchen, or watch TV while relaxing on the sofa. This makes it easier to spend time with family and friends, without feeling cramped or confined.
Small Open Plan Kitchen Living Rooms
Small open plan kitchen living rooms can be challenging to design, but they offer a lot of potential. By using the right colors, furniture, and lighting, you can create a space that feels much larger than it actually is.
Color Scheme
Choosing the right color scheme is key when it comes to designing a small open plan kitchen living room. You want to use colors that are light and airy, as they can help to create the illusion of more space. You could use a neutral color palette, such as white or beige, with pops of color in the accessories and accents.
Furniture
When it comes to furniture, you want to choose pieces that are small and compact. This will help to maximize the space and prevent the room from feeling cluttered. You could use a small dining table and chairs, and a loveseat or small sofa in the living room.
Lighting
Lighting is especially important in a small open plan kitchen living room. You want to ensure that the space is well-lit, but also that the lighting is not too harsh. You could use recessed lighting in the kitchen and living room, and add a few table lamps or floor lamps for ambient lighting.
Conclusion
Open plan living has become a popular design trend, especially in small homes. By creating a seamless transition between your kitchen and living room, you can create a space that feels much larger than it actually is. When designing your space, it is important to consider the flow of the space, the use of different flooring, furniture placement, and lighting. With the right design elements, you can create a modern small open plan kitchen living room that is both functional and stylish.