KEY CONSIDERATIONS FOR DESIGNING A SOCIABLE KITCHEN :
Expert Insights from Willis & Stone
from cooking , appliance and conversations all spread easily across the space . A practical solution is to incorporate sound-absorbing materials like rugs , curtains and soft furnishings , which help reduce noise and create a more comfortable environment .
2 . Island or Penisula ?
The kitchen is no longer just a place to cook , as the central hub of the home , it ’ s where we gather , share and connect with family and friends . Whether it ’ s for casual family meals or hosting over the festive season , creating a sociable kitchen requires thoughtful planning and design . Molly Chandler , kitchen designer at Willis & Stone shares the top factors to consider when crafting a kitchen that encourages connection and interaction .
1 . Choosing the right Layout
When creating a sociable kitchen an open-plan layout is often the preferred choice . Open-plan spaces offer numerous advantages , making them ideal for households with a social lifestyle , where family
4 - www . refurbandrestore . co . uk members can interact effortlessly across the kitchen , dining and living areas . This layout is also great for entertaining guests , as hosts can prepare food while still engaging with friends and family in the adjoining areas . An open plan arrangement creates a sense of spaciousness , allowing the natural light to flow throughout the entire area .
Whilst an open-plan layout is ideal for socialising , there are a few challenges to consider and plan for . For example , cooking odours will spread more easily in an open plan space so it ’ s important to choose a high quality extractor fan to keep this from becoming an issue . Similarly , noise levels can also appear louder as noises
Whilst the kitchen island has gained status as the ultimate gathering spot and social anchor in many modern kitchens , don ’ t forget to consider other options too . The humble peninsula can also offer ample seating along one side , allowing guests to interact with the cook while facing the kitchen . A peninsula can also be a good way to define work zones , making it easier to separate cooking activities from socialising while still being connected to guests .
The choice often depends on the available space , as islands require ample floor space and sufficient clearance on all sides to function effectively . If space does allow , islands offer great social benefits by allowing access from all sides , making it easier for people to gather and interact from different angles .