=====[srform] Spend an hour watching HGTV and you are bound to hear two words, “open concept.” Rooms with open concept floor plans are all the r...
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Spend an hour watching HGTV and you are bound to hear two words, “open concept.” Rooms with open concept floor plans are all the rage because they offer more space, better functionality, and a more pleasing design. But how? I'm here to help answer your burning questions about open concept kitchens and more.
Ready to transform your kitchen into the open concept you've been dreaming of? Contact a kitchen remodeling contractor today and get quotes from pros in your area, for free!
How Does An Open Concept Kitchen Work?
An open concept kitchen floor plan eliminates barriers in a home, opening it up to other rooms of the house, typically common areas like the dining room or living room. Instead of having walls to support the weight of the ceiling, open concept homes will have load-bearing beams. Installation of these beams removes the unused space that walls and doors take up, making even the smallest of spaces feel large and roomy.
Open Concept Kitchen Storage
Are you short on space in your kitchen? Are you wondering where you can fit all your pots, pans, and garbage cans? These small open concept kitchen ideas will do the trick!
Walls Of Storage
A Pot Rack
Walls are a storage solution that is often overlooked. A simple pot rack or even a mug rack hung on the wall can free up space in cabinets and drawers, leaving them free for storing things you’d rather have off display. Want a DIY solution? Hang a pegboard in a color of your choice and kitchen theme.
Drawers, Cabinets, and Shelves, Oh My!
Do you have an extra wall between your kitchen and other common areas? Adding sections of cabinetry and shelving into an unused wall can give you additional storage. Dividing it into three distinct sections of drawers, cabinets, and shelves will add visual interest, making it look like more than just a place to stash your stuff.
Vertical Storage
Pull Out Pantry
Say goodbye to digging through your pantry for the paprika. Keep your sugar, spice, and everything nice in a pull out pantry. This device allows for easier access, greater visibility, and optimal usage of the space in your kitchen. With the right materials, you can even DIY it!
Hanging Storage
A Tiered Basket
With your kitchen on full display, a clear countertop can make a huge difference in maintaining the orderly look of your open home. A hanging, tiered wire basket can provide an out of the way, yet accessible home for your produce.
How To Maintain Your Wide Open Concept Spaces
As the Dixie Chicks sing, you need wide open spaces, room to make your big mistakes. Kitchens tend to be that place in a home. Whether you’re baking a cake or cooking some stir fry, the kitchen can get messy. And, with an open concept plan, this mess can be seen from the rooms beyond. So, how can you keep your wide-open space clean? Here are some tidying tips.
Always Clear Off Countertops
A clutter-free space is the first step in maintaining the cleanliness of your open kitchen. Though you may want to add some decorative items to your kitchen, it is best to utilize the space with only functional and essential elements. It is also vital that you do not make the counter space your drop off spot as this just adds to the clutter.
Keep Your Kitchen Items Behind Closed Doors
Your kitchen is open, but your cabinets should stay closed. Though you may be a fan of open shelving, neatness can be more challenging to maintain. Cabinets allow you to hide your clutter, mismatched dishware, and other non-aesthetic kitchen necessities. If you still prefer open cabinets, just make sure you keep them more minimalistic in style and be intentional in the placing of items. If you’re still debating the idea of open shelving, check out this video.
“Don’t Put It Down, Put It Away”
Done cooking? Put the dishes in the dishwasher or the sink. Finished with the chips? Put them back in the pantry. Having an open concept kitchen, it is best to tidy as you go to make sure it always looks spick and span from your couch or your dining room chair.
Clean A Little Every Day
Deep cleaning your house can be exhausting. Save your energy to clean a bit every day. An evening and night tidying routine is an excellent way to ensure your kitchen stays squeaky clean without the hassle of a weekly scrub done.
Is An Open Concept Kitchen Right For You?
Like anything, there are pros and cons to an open concept kitchen. If you find that an open concept kitchen layout is right for you, ImproveNet can help. Get up to free quotes from remodeling companies near you who can give you the wide-open space you deserve.
