When you combine your living room and kitchen, it will create more space in both rooms with its open layout while also creating a comfortable culinary environment. Bringing both spaces together will also reduce the amount of effort it takes to move between both rooms and changes the way the rooms are perceived. Before you rush off to break down walls Joseph Kitchen & Bath has some information about combining spaces you should keep in mind.
Disadvantages
In post-industrial countries, the idea of making one part of a large room into a kitchen was ideal. This was because in the west, most families use the kitchen as a place to socialize, make drinks, snacks, and warm already prepared meals. Not many people spent all day at the stove cranking out dishes for their family. However, in modern times, more people are cooking at home. These people prefer to have a fully functional kitchen where they can create complex creations that tickle their palate.
Homes that have a very active kitchen will have cooking odors that travel to the living room. When a kitchen is combined with other rooms in the home, it will be easier for these scents to travel to the other areas of the house, mainly the living room. If you cook often, a combined space may not be right for you. Minimal cooks, on the other hand, can deal with cooking smells with an oven hood, which can reduce the overall scent transfer.
Cleanliness is another important factor to consider. If you like a neat home, but often leave your kitchen messy, an open floor plan will bring that to light. Also, if you like to keep food and crumbs out of the living room, an open plan may put a damper on that idea. Despite these disadvantages, there is a lot to be said for combined spaces in a modern home.
Advantages
Homes that have a smaller kitchen or a smaller living room can greatly benefit from a combined space. Both areas will get a much-needed expansion without having to knock down a wall or anything more drastic. A combined space makes it easier for the cook to interact with the guest or family during meal times. Finally, a combined room increases the functionality of the space, simplifying pathways and making traffic flow more efficient, while also transforming the interior dramatically.
Renovation Regulations
There are different building regulations in every city. Before making changes to your home, such as combining rooms, it is important to secure the proper permits. There are different rules for independent homes than there are in apartments. In fact, most multi-story residential buildings prohibit owners from combining kitchens with gas stoves with any other room. Consulting with a knowledgeable construction company like Joseph Kitchen & Bath will ensure that your project runs as smoothly as possible.
Plan Your Space
Your kitchen and your living room serve two different functions. When combining them, you will need to plan your space in a way that covers the needs of both rooms. Create a cohesive design that allows you to entertain in the living room without bringing too much attention to the kitchen, while also creating a welcoming space in the kitchen for the family and to cook.
How We Can Help
Are you considering combining your kitchen and your living room? Not sure where to start? The design specialists here at Joseph Kitchen & Bath can work with you to transform your space into a combined luxury that meets your needs. To find out more about our Toronto kitchen renovation service, give us a call at (905) 707-7756.
