Would You Choose an Open Kitchen? Transforming a Cramped 4m² Space into a Spacious Cooking and Dining Area - August 2024

The Transformation Journey: From Cramped to Spacious

The idea of an open kitchen has always intrigued many, especially those struggling with limited kitchen space. Our journey began with a mere 4 square meters of cramped, constrained kitchen area. To revolutionize our cooking space, we decided to tear down the walls and embrace the concept of an open kitchen complete with an island.

The Creation of a Comfortable Combined Kitchen and Dining Space

Post-renovation, we were greeted with a comforting and integrated dining and kitchen area. This transformation wasn't just about demolishing walls; it was about rebuilding our space to fit our lives. Every inch of the new kitchen and the island was our own creation, utilizing IKEA cabinets and countertops to bring our vision to life.

The Layout: L-Shaped Open Kitchen with a Straight Island

The design we settled on was an L-shaped open kitchen paired with a straight island. This layout proved incredibly practical for our household. The integration of the kitchen and dining area not only made our space more functional but also significantly enhanced its visual appeal. The round table addition made the area appear much larger.

The Island: A Proud Feature of Our Renovation

The island stands as the centerpiece of our renovation, a seamless link between the kitchen and dining area. We designed it with practicality in mind: 900mm wide for the kitchen side and 600mm for the rest. This setup proved ideal for using small kitchen appliances, whether we were in the kitchen or dining area. Baking became a breeze with the island serving as the main workstation.

Extra Storage and Aesthetic Additions

Facing the dining area, part of the island's cabinetry doubles as storage for the dining room. We also reserved space for a small trolley, functioning as a movable sideboard. Our personal touch includes a CD player on the island, our favorite music, and decorative paintings, creating a cozy spot for enjoying snacks, afternoon tea, and music.

Evening Romance with Music and Warm Lights

The setting transforms in the evening. As we soothe our little ones to sleep, the space takes on a romantic ambience. The CD player and warm yellow lights create a serene atmosphere. "Would you like to listen to some music?" becomes an invitation to unwind and relax in our newly transformed space.

Conclusion

Opting for an open kitchen was more than a design choice; it was a lifestyle change. It allowed us to not just cook and eat, but to live and enjoy our moments more fully in a space that truly feels like ours.