5 design ideas to inspire your open-concept kitchen

1. A clear view

Avid cooks may find that an open kitchen exposes the rest of the home to cooking fumes, other odours and grease. Nip these issues in the bud with glass windows or sliding doors that don't take away from the sense of spaciousness. Frameless glass panels are ideal for minimalist homes.

2. Go bold

An open kitchen design complements your home's overall feel. Introducing elements that pop such as coloured appliances, like Smeg's FAB28 fridge (Ruby Red), invites attention. The "soft touch" rubberised effect adds character to a kitchen, especially when cabinetry is kept simple. 

3. Zoning

Define distinct sections with different floor finishes, pony walls or an island. A common plan involves the wet and dry zones. The wet usually comprises the sink, hood and hob, and is often closed off with glass windows or doors. Think of the dry kitchen as a pantry of sorts for preparing light meals and the location of your fridge.

4. An island or a peninsula?

Nothing makes a statement like a free-standing island you can move to the centre or to one side. Aside from serving as a countertop for prepping food, it's handy for dining and storage, too.

The peninsula serves the same purpose, but is an extension of the kitchen as it attached to a wall on one side and separates the kitchen from the rest of your living space.

5. Keep it fuss-free

Handle-free, flat-front cabinets help reduce visual bulk when there's the absence of a wall. Hide appliances behind panelled shelf designs or go for built-in ones so they don't take up space on your countertop. Aesthetically speaking, an induction hob with a glossy finish makes for a sleeker-looking kitchen.

This article was first published in Home & Decor.