Whether you’re in the process of tackling a reno or are building a home from scratch, you know that designing a kitchen is no small feat. Before you can even get into the nitty-gritty like choosing your appliance types and selecting countertop finishes, you’ll want to determine the ideal layout for your space.
If you’re considering incorporating an open-concept kitchen into your home but aren’t certain whether it’s the best bet for your family, read on—here, experts discuss the pros and cons of this type of setup.
Pro: Open-Concept Kitchens Are Great for Small Spaces
According to Drew Davis, partner at Kligerman Architecture and Design, open-concept kitchens and small spaces go hand in hand. The setup “allows you to combine cooking with dining and living spaces into one room,” he says. “The kitchen is the place where guests naturally gather and chat while the food is being prepared, so why not support that natural tendency?”
Additionally, your home may seem less cramped due to the lack of walls. “An open-concept kitchen often feels brighter and more spacious,” says Molly Torres Portnof, the founder of DATE Interiors.
Pro: Open-Concept Kitchens Are Practical in Family Homes
Want the ability to monitor your little ones as you cook? With an open-concept kitchen, it’s easy to do so. “It allows parents to interact with kids doing homework or crafts or just keep an eye on them,” Davis says.
Con: Open-Concept Kitchens Allow Little Privacy
If you greatly enjoy cooking and own a ton of tools and appliances as a result, the number of items on your kitchen countertops that are visible from adjoining rooms may start to bother you, Davis notes.
Containing scents can be an issue, too. “It’s nearly impossible to avoid cooking smells permeating throughout the entire open space,” Portnof says.
As such, if you entertain formally, an open kitchen may not be a wise choice. “It can be nice to close off the kitchen to separate the noise, odors, and hustle and bustle of the behind-the-scenes activities,” Davis adds,