The kitchen is the new living room
They say that the kitchen is the heart of the home. Whether small or large, the kitchen is the hub of the home. Whereas kitchens were once solely for cooking they are now also for living.
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Today, a good sized, well laid out kitchen is vastly important. Newer homes have embraced kitchens as living spaces in mind, designed to be larger, more accommodating and dual functional, both for lifestyle and resale purposes.
While still called kitchens, they are much more than that. They are a family’s living space and house several areas within. Builders, architects, realtors and designers all recognize this. There’s the kitchen area, the designated cooking space. Then, there’s the dining area within the kitchen. In many larger kitchens, a family can all congregate while cooking, working or relaxing. For those who enjoy entertaining often, even homes with formal dining and living rooms find that guests tend to gather around the kitchen. Here are three designer-approved tips to turn your kitchen into a living room.
Make the kitchen multi-purpose
Islands are a place to entertain, eat meals, work and connect with loved ones. And as more families do away with formal dining rooms, more are turning to islands for more of their meals. Islands are also expanding beyond the kitchen, becoming more of an open concept with kitchens extending into the living area. Adding stools is an easy yet effective way to create space for kids to do homework or guests to linger.
Encourage access
As entertaining has become more casual and relaxed, guests not only gather around the kitchen but also feel comfortable enough to help themselves to food and drink in the refrigerator. So, you want to make it easy for people to get in and out of the refrigerator quickly. You may also consider setting up a custom drink station, which can include a wine refrigerator and ice drawer. Easy access to tools and equipment for you, as chef and entertainer, are also important to keep in mind.
Fuse style and substance
For décor purposes, comfortable furniture, inviting fabrics and warm lighting create an inviting space where people will want to spend time. Go neutral for bigger items like paint, tile and countertop colors, and add bursts of color via accessories and artful displays. Hardwood flooring is an ideal choice for a timeless look and functionality. (Read more about Kitchens with Hardwood Floors for inspiration here.)
