Recently, we are increasingly solving the problems of small spaces in the most radical ways, for example, by combining two isolated spaces into one by demolishing an adjacent wall. As a rule, in this way they connect the kitchen and the living room, resulting in a fairly large room with two windows, a loggia or a balcony. The advantages of such a combination are the increased area of the room, its good illumination, as well as the possibility of unhindered communication between the hostess who cooks food in the kitchen, with guests and household members. There are some downsides to this association. For example, the smells that enter the living room, as well as the excessive openness of the space, which interferes with privacy if necessary. Therefore, before resorting to such drastic alterations, one should weigh the pros and cons.
Kitchen-living room design is not an easy task. It is very important here, firstly, to create a unified style solution, a harmonious color palette, and secondly, to highlight and emphasize zones with different functional purposes using special designtricks. If we are faced with the task of simply combining two rooms, then perhaps we should not demolish the entire wall separating them. You can make a wide arch in it or build in a glass sliding partition. If, when demolishing a wall, the main task is to increase the space of the living room at the expense of the kitchen, then it will have to be completely destroyed, and instead of it, build a small partition or decorative “portal”, which will serve not only as a dividing “line”, but also as a rack, bar counter and etc.
Creating the design of the kitchen and living room together, you can highlight different functional areas with a low podium that will house the kitchen compartment, or with an originally designed ceiling, slightly lowered in one of the areas. A complex ceiling structure should be supplemented with decorative lighting, which is also used for space zoning. In addition, properly selected flooring will help to visually divide the room. For example, in the living room it can be parquet or carpet, and in the kitchen compartment it can be tile. It is important that the colors of the finishing material blend harmoniously with each other, creating a contrast or a soft color transition.
The central element that creates the design of the kitchen-living room may well be a large round, rectangular or oval table of an unusual design, made to order. Let its size be large enough so that it fulfills not only its intended purpose, but also divides the room into two.
When designing the design of the kitchen-living room, it is important to consider that despite the combination, each of these rooms has its own specific function. Therefore, in the living room area, it is imperative to equip a soft corner for relaxation, install a TV, music center, etc. You should not forget about the right lighting. So, the design of the kitchen-living room involves many different light sources located in different places. In the recreation area, on a low bedside table near the sofa, floor lamps with large lampshades are installed that scatter soft light. A large chandelier is hung above the table, well illuminating the entire dining area (which, according to scientific data, increases appetite and improves the taste of dishes). In the kitchen compartment, light sources are placed in the work area, directly above the table and stove.
What is attractive about a small kitchen-living room? The design of this room, sustained in the same style, creates a very cozy, chamber open space, functionally convenient for communication and receiving guests.