Higher ceilings, plenty of light, and a connection to the garden are often top of the list when it comes to renovations and self builds and this often means an open plan design for the dining room and kitchen. So, how do we keep the social feel of the dining room now that it’s also a kitchen? Here are our tips for creating a sociable atmosphere in a functional space using that versatile freestanding kitchen unit, the kitchen island.
Use the kitchen island as a centrepiece
The old, functional fitted kitchen has changed now that it is no longer just used for cooking and washing up. Freestanding kitchen furniture is an instant solution for those wishing to use the kitchen as a place for work, homework and get-togethers. Great ideas for a sociable kitchen are a corner bench and table set if you’re looking to zone off an area, or for a central hub, a kitchen island with seating. Freestanding kitchen islands can be moved, and come with a lighter silhouette (those with legs show more of the floor).
Add complementary kitchen stools
The first of our kitchen island ideas for a sociable kitchen is to add the right kind of kitchen stool. Freestanding kitchen islands not only reward you with storage and worktop space, but they also have an overhanging countertop allowing for seating - providing not just a place to gather around, but a comfortable spot to stay around for longer. Your choice of kitchen bar stools is important; go for a bar stool that showcases your interior style and achieve a look that feels more social living and less functional kitchen.
Set the mood with the right kitchen lighting
Continuing the theme of showcasing style for a sociable feel, move on to thinking about your kitchen island lighting. Kitchen spotlights are no good when you need to zone a social spot in the kitchen. A carefully hung, stylish kitchen ceiling light will add a living style whilst drawing your eye to the social area of the space. Choose a kitchen pendant that suits your style and position it above the dining table or kitchen island, it will signal it is a place to socialise when you enter the room. Go for a decorative kitchen chandelier for greater effect.
Create a relaxed, café bar vibe with stylish placemats
For many of us, the sanctity of the dinner table is a hugely important aspect of daily life - one we must not miss out on with an open plan kitchen and dining space. Focus on dining, not the daily tasks that might surround you. Make more of your get-together and always dine with a clear uncluttered surface with some stylish table linens at hand in the kitchen island drawer. Elegant tableware and pairing napkins add ceremony to your mealtime, a little social intimacy, like the kind you get dining at your favourite café bar.
Style the kitchen with decorative accessories
Create a more versatile look in your open plan kitchen for a sociable kitchen. Think about what your company will look at whilst they gather at the island or table. We’re now paying much more attention to the décor in our kitchen, introducing wall art and carefully styled kitchen ornaments to soften the functional look. Choose wall art that complements your freestanding furniture and soften the edges with indoor planting. Faux greenery is a great decorative addition because it is low maintenance and complements every style of kitchen.