Ways to make an open plan kitchen feel more homely

Transforming a spacious open plan kitchen into a homely sanctuary can be a delightful challenge. With the rising popularity of expansive, multifunctional spaces in homes, it's essential to inject warmth and personality to make these areas inviting. 

Let’s take a look at the various design strategies to make an open plan kitchen feel homely. 

1. Use any architectural features

To make an open plan kitchen feel homely, embrace the building's architectural heritage. Incorporating original elements like exposed beams, sash windows, or period fireplaces adds warmth and charm. Designing with these historical features respects the property's past while blending tradition with modernity, creating a welcoming and personal space.

2. Add soft textiles

Textiles are key to making an open plan kitchen feel homely by softening acoustics and aesthetics. Add plush rugs, heavy curtains, or upholstered seating to introduce warmth and texture. These elements help absorb sound and reduce echoes in spacious areas while providing visual contrast to hard surfaces. Choose colours that complement or accent your kitchen décor to enhance the homely feel.

3. Use strategic lighting

Strategic lighting blends functionality with ambience. Use a mix of bright task lighting over worktops and softer ambient lights in dining or seating areas. Incorporating dimmable options lets you adjust the mood from cooking to relaxing. Layering different types of lighting, including overhead, under-cabinet, and feature lights, effectively illuminates the space and enhances its homeliness.

4. Display personal style with shelving

Open shelving can make an open plan kitchen feel homely by displaying personal items. Use shelves to showcase family heirlooms, favourite cookbooks, or ceramic collections, each adding a unique story and depth to your kitchen's decor. Besides their decorative appeal, these shelves offer practical access to everyday items, blending functionality with personal style. Choose shelving that complements your kitchen's design to maintain a cohesive look while expressing your taste.

5. Furniture flow throughout the space

Achieving a seamless flow of furniture enhances the homeliness of an open plan kitchen. Extend the style of your kitchen cabinetry into adjoining areas with consistent colour schemes and materials for a unified and intimate look. Include elements like a matching sideboard in the dining area or a bespoke bookcase that complements the kitchen's style. 

6. Establishing a warm focal point

A mantel serves as a warm, inviting focal point in an open plan kitchen, anchoring the space with style and substance. Whether featuring a traditional wood-burning fireplace or a modern decorative mantel, it draws the eye and brings people together. Adorn the mantel with personal touches like family photos, unique artwork, or seasonal decorations to enhance the homeliness of your kitchen.

7. Carve out a cosy corner

Creating a cosy corner in your open plan kitchen can make it a multifunctional space that encourages relaxation and conversation. Whether it's a snug reading nook by a window or a comfortable lounge area near the kitchen, enhance it with plush seating, soft throws, and ambient lighting. Adding elements like bookshelves or a small coffee table further defines this area, making the kitchen feel exceptionally homely.

Sealing the homely feel in your open plan kitchen

By thoughtfully integrating these elements, from architectural features to cosy corners, you can make an open plan kitchen feel homely and inviting. Each addition not only enhances functionality but also enriches the character of your home, ensuring it meets the lifestyle needs of your family and becomes a cherished gathering space.