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Livingetc
Livingetc
Sophie Flaxman

Open vs closed kitchens – which floorplan is really better for the modern kitchen?

an open plan kitchen in dark green

The kitchen is, without a doubt, one of the rooms that have experienced the most radical transformation in our homes over the past two centuries. The kitchen speaks volumes about its inhabitant's lifestyle and is a fascinating reflection of the broader world context, illustrating evolving cultural and societal values and behaviors and technological developments. 

Throughout history, the kitchen has principally served a utilitarian purpose as a space reserved for cooking and cleaning. For example, in Georgian properties, the kitchen is often found in the basement, tucked out of sight and separate from the living quarters. Until the 1950s, domestic life was a formal affair, and the kitchen was strictly off-limits to guests. The end of WWII sparked a huge shift in attitudes towards existing morals, norms, and ideas, laying the foundation for our casual modern culture - and kitchen! Fast forward to 2023, and the kitchen is also a makeshift office, homework station, and playroom by day and a place to entertain, socialize, or wine and dine by night.

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