Blend It In

An open kitchen should blend in with the style and design of the adjacent room. For instance, a contemporary kitchen will look out of place next to a rustic living room.

You want the kitchen to match the rest of the house but it needs to stand apart too. Try demarcating the cooking area from the actual living area. Instead of a traditional arch, use different flooring options to separate the two areas. From vitrified tiles for a modern look to wooden laminates and rough-finish stone for a country look, you can take your pick.

Step Up… or Down

Another way to separate the kitchen area is to plan it on either a step lower or higher than the rest of the room. If you choose to have it a step higher, then try glass bricks with concealed lights for the skirting of the step.

A dining table is another way of separating the kitchen from the rest of the room.

If space permits, go with a charming little island in the middle of the kitchen. Include a couple of tall stools and you have got yourself an instant family room. From dinnertime chitchats to homework, your kids will have you around all the time.

An island doesn't have to be just another counter. You could have drawers and cabinets fitted in for extra storage space.

On the Counter

You could choose to tile the kitchen counter or do it up with granite or marble. You could also have a laminate, wood or stainless steel counter. Corian is another option. It is available in a wide variety of colours that are sure to go with the colour of the cabinets. However, it needs to be handled carefully as it could get scratched and is not heat resistant.

Concealed lighting below the cabinets will give you sufficient brightness for chopping and mixing. Include artistic, ceiling suspended light fixtures above the dining area, the stove and other work areas.