Open Plan Kitchen Ideas Without Losing Storage or Calm

Use zones instead of walls

Open plan kitchens need structure. Without it, the room can become noisy, cluttered and hard to light. Plan cooking, eating, relaxing and storage as separate zones that still feel connected.

What to plan

• Use an island, peninsula, dining table or lighting line to mark zones.
• Keep bins, dishwasher and sink close enough for easy clearing up.
• Plan quiet storage for appliances that would otherwise sit on the worktop.
• Use task lighting for prep and softer lighting for seating areas.

Safety note

Structural changes, gas appliances, new circuits, extraction routes and major plumbing changes need the relevant qualified trades.