Making an open kitchen cozy

The most beautiful open kitchen is one where you enjoy spending time without constantly thinking about tidying up. The key lies in zoning: cooking, washing up, preparing food, and eating each need their own space, even if everything happens in one room. A counter, an island, or a half-height cabinet can visually divide the kitchen without closing it off.

Cozyness is created through light and sound. Task lighting should be bright and glare-free, while mood lighting can be soft: indirect LED strips, wall sconces, or pendant lights above the dining area. Acoustically, textiles in the living area—curtains, rugs, upholstery—as well as sound-absorbing surfaces and quiet appliances help. If you’re planning an open kitchen, pay closer attention to odors: an extractor fan, under-cabinet vent, or effective exhaust system makes a big difference.