Open-concept kitchens are all the rage now, and understandably so. What’s with smaller kitchens and growing demand for modern-day kitchens to function as a space to cook and entertain, an open-concept kitchen is the perfect answer for young homeowners who want to have it all. Here are some tips on how you can create a fabulous and functional open-concept kitchen.

Integrate a kitchen island counter

Kitchen island counters are a must-have if you absolutely love to have guests over. Apart from serving as a visual anchor, they add functionality to the cooking space. Bring in stylish stools to complete your kitchen island set-up. More often than not, they become the social nucleus where family and friends convene at gatherings over food. Match your island with the rest of your kitchen cabinetry or throw in different elements for some contrast. Either way, you’ll on your way to entertaining in style.

Use open shelving

A row of closed-door cabinetry and drawers can read heavy. Instead of opting for built-in upper cabinets along the entire length of your kitchen, go for some open shelves to break the monotony, as well as to create the impression of spaciousness in the kitchen. Deck these shelves with beautiful kitchen peripherals to give the space character and style. It is also a simple and easy way to add a pop of colour in your space.

A row of open shelving is a welcome gesture to open up the space and take off some visual weight. (Design: Sky Creation)

Introduce artwork

There is no reason why you should shy away from artwork in a kitchen. It is an easy way to dress up your space and add a focal point where attention will gravitate towards. Go for an oversized art piece to add a bold and dramatic touch to your kitchen. Just like that, you have a conversational piece that will break the ice at gatherings. What’s more, you can easily update the look of your kitchen with a new art piece when something new catches your eye.

Oversized abstract artwork becomes an immediate focal. Here, a symmetrical set-up adds a formal note to the space. (Design: Sky Creation)

Have multiple light sources

Light up your kitchen in style by integrating a spectrum of light sources. Choose recessed lightings to create the perfect ambient for the kitchen. Make a statement with chic pendants or a glam chandelier above the kitchen island counter to seal the design direction of the kitchen. Also consider track lightings or under cabinet lights to achieve an understated appeal.

A cluster of brass pendant lights accents the space and complements the surrounding brown. (Design: Sky Creation)

Multiple electrical outlets

The last thing you’ll want after moving into a new kitchen is finding out that you don’t have enough electrical outlets for your many high-end appliances. This is why it helps to plan ahead when you are designing the kitchen. Consider installing electrical tracks for greater functionality, or concealing electrical outlets underneath cabinets to get the desired uncluttered look.

Hideaway storage

Install custom cabinetry with garage doors to hide appliances. This way you can keep your counter tops free from kitchen appliances like your coffee-maker, toaster and blender amongst others. You’ll find that placing these out of sight creates a kitchen that is less busy.