Kitchen Design: Open Plan, Closed Concept, or the Best of Both Worlds?

websitebuilder • March 14, 2023

The kitchen was a closed-off area in American homes for a long time. Today, many people want kitchens to be active parts of the house, while other homeowners still desire the charm of closed kitchens. Learn more about these designs below to determine the best one for your family.

Open-Plan Kitchens

In an open-plan concept, no walls between the kitchen and living spaces create a smooth flow between these areas. The layout makes a house feel bigger, which is welcome in smaller houses.

Many people love open-plan kitchens because they facilitate interaction between people cooking in the kitchen and family members in the living and dining areas. You can install long countertops and add bar stools to encourage guests to sit and chat as you prepare meals.

However, the open-plan kitchen design has several drawbacks. Tidiness is vital in these kitchens since the cooking and prep area is visible to everyone. Cooking noises and odors travel to other common areas and can interrupt people watching TV or working.

You must also get creative with storage in open-plan kitchens because the lack of extra walls means fewer cabinets. Additionally, the lighting, paint colors, cabinetry, and other kitchen design choices should blend well with the rest of the house because of the increased visibility.

Closed Kitchen Concept

With a closed layout, the kitchen is a room in itself, granting privacy to people prepping and cooking meals. The heat, noise, and odors usually stay in the kitchen rather than wafting to the rest of the home.

Many homeowners who prefer this concept enjoy its storage space since the extra walls mean more cabinets, shelves, and counters. Cooking messes and clutter are hidden from guests, and you clean up at your own pace.

This layout doesn't grant smooth access to the dining area. However, a remodeling contractor can help you add a breakfast nook, an island with bar stools, and other dining spaces to encourage other family members to spend time in the kitchen. The professional can also add more windows to the kitchen to make it feel airy and spacious.

A closed-layout kitchen gives you more creative freedom since it doesn't have to match the rest of the house. So, experiment with different floors, paint colors, backsplashes, appliances, cabinetry, and new trends.

The Best of Both Worlds

If you want to enjoy the pros of both layouts, a semi-open kitchen may be the perfect compromise. Learn how to enjoy the best of both designs.

Pass-Through Windows

Passing meals from the kitchen to the dining or living areas is a hassle in closed kitchens. Pass-through windows on top of counters make it easier to pass meals without leaving the kitchen. Folding windows are great additions because you can open and close them as needed.

Sliding Door

A clear or translucent sliding door grants privacy while allowing light flow. The sizes for these doors range from 24 inches wide to 16 feet, depending on the dimensions of your dining and living areas.

Half Wall

A 40- to 50-inch half wall can introduce physical boundaries to the kitchen and living area. Then, install glass partitions at the top of the wall to discourage noise flow and let light flow through the common areas.

Raised Bar Counters

Bar countertops 4–10 inches higher than kitchen counters block views of the kitchen prep areas. In this way, you can interact with other people and still enjoy privacy during meal preparation.

Your family's lifestyle and needs will help you choose between a closed kitchen or an open concept. If you want a blend of both layouts, we customize a middle ground that is perfect for you. Contact us today at Oak Creek Plumbing & Remodeling for breathtaking home upgrades.

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Thinking About Relocating Your Kitchen Sink in 2025? Key Do's and Don'ts to Know

February 1, 2025

Relocating your kitchen sink can be a game-changer for your kitchen’s functionality and style. At Oak Creek Plumbing and Remodeling , we understand that making such a significant update requires expert planning and execution. To help you navigate this project, we’ve put together a guide on the do’s and don’ts of relocating your kitchen sink in 2025. When planning your sink relocation, start by evaluating the feasibility of moving plumbing lines. Keeping the sink close to existing connections can save you money and streamline the process. Proper venting and drainage are crucial to avoid plumbing issues down the road. Don’t forget to position your sink strategically within the “kitchen work triangle” (sink, stove, and refrigerator) to maximize efficiency and convenience in your kitchen layout. At Oak Creek Plumbing and Remodeling , we recommend obtaining necessary permits and consulting with professionals to ensure the job is done right. Our licensed plumbers and kitchen remodeling experts can guide you through the process, helping you avoid costly mistakes. This is also a great opportunity to upgrade outdated pipes or consider installing a water filtration system for added functionality. Plus, a well-thought-out sink relocation can boost your kitchen’s resale value, making it a worthwhile investment. Avoid common pitfalls by addressing structural constraints, such as load-bearing walls or floor joists, which can complicate plumbing work. It’s important to budget realistically for costs, including plumbing modifications, cabinetry adjustments, and potential flooring repairs. While aesthetics are important, functionality should take priority. For example, a sink under a window is visually appealing but should not disrupt the flow of your kitchen. Electrical considerations are just as important as plumbing. Ensure proper placement of outlets, lighting, and garbage disposal wiring in the new sink area. Don’t overlook water pressure checks and drainage slope requirements, as these details are critical for preventing leaks and clogs. Above all, avoid rushing the project—cutting corners can lead to improper installations and long-term damage. At Oak Creek Plumbing and Remodeling , we specialize in seamless kitchen sink relocations that enhance both style and functionality. Whether you’re looking to optimize your kitchen layout or make a bold design statement, our team is here to help. With our expertise, you can achieve a kitchen that’s efficient, stylish, and built to last. Ready to get started on your kitchen sink relocation? Contact Oak Creek Plumbing and Remodeling today for a consultation! Let’s turn your kitchen dreams into reality.