Kitchen Diner Interior Design: Top 5 Tips:
For many modern and contemporary homes, the kitchen and dining area are often combined into one open-plan space. Designing a cohesive and functional kitchen diner can often be a challenge and it definitely requires careful planning. Follow CCID’s top 5 interior design tips when designing a kitchen diner.
1. Zoning - Define Distinct Zones:
Even though the kitchen and dining areas share an open plan layout, it is important to visually define distinct zones for each area. This can be done through strategic furniture placement (such as tables), floor level changes and use of floor coverings (such as area rugs) and / or architectural details (such as wall panelling). If executed well, these can subtly distinguish the kitchen from the dining space. This separation of spaces helps to identify function and creates a natural flow in an open plan layout. It also prevents the areas from feeling cramped or chaotic.
2. Focal Point - Create a Focal Point:
Every room needs a focal point to anchor the design and draw the eye in. This is especially true for a kitchen diner, which is likely to be one of key spaces in your home where you entertain guests. For a kitchen diner, the focal point could be a statement light fixture over an antique or reclaimed wooden dining table; a tiled accent wall with a beautiful bold pattern; or a bespoke built-in cabinet with fluted glass doors. This focal point should complement the room's colour scheme and design style. It may even dictate it!
3. Lighting - Layer the Lighting:
Lighting is crucial in an open plan kitchen diner. Incorporate a variety of lighting sources and types, including accent, ambient and task lighting. For example, in the kitchen, source a combination of spot lights (placed in the ceiling above key work areas), pendant lights (positioned in a row over the the kitchen island), LED lights (placed under the cabinets illuminating the work surfaces below). In the dining area, a combination of a statement light fixture (positioned over the dining table) would work well, alongside wall lights and / or lamps. Dimmer switches allow you to control the ambience and create a specific mood for each area. Portable lamps also provide a great source of portable light and you can use them to dress the dining table.
4. Finishes - Mix Materials and Textures:
Using diverse materials like wood, metal, stone, tile and textiles creates visual interest. For example, consider using a wooden dining table, metal pendant lights, stone or tile kitchen backsplash, textured kitchen cabinets and an area rug. Mixing materials and textures will add depth and dimension to the overall space. As the kitchen and dining areas adjoin, it is sensible to choose finishes that are durable and easy to clean, such as quartz countertops, hardwood floors and painted kitchen cabinets.
5. Storage - Maximise Storage Space:
Open plan kitchen diners often serve multiple purposes - a spot for casual family meals, an entertainment space for hosting guests and sometimes even a work or study area. So, storage is absolutely key. Get creative with smart storage that keeps clutter at bay. Bespoke and built-in kitchen cabinets, shelving, sideboards and banquette seating (with hidden storage compartments underneath) are perfect for kitchen diners.
Although you may want to subtly differentiate the kitchen from the dining space, it is important that the overall design aesthetic flows seamlessly between the two areas. Repeat colours, patterns, textures and materials to create visual harmony and a cohesive look.
By following these top 5 interior design tips, you can seamlessly blend your kitchen and dining areas into one beautiful, functional and enjoyable space for cooking, dining and entertaining.
Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments section below. Also, if you need further advice or you would like CCID to design your kitchen diner, please contact hello@c-c-i-d.com
Comments