Open Plan Kitchens – Are They On the Way Out?

For decades now, an open plan kitchen has been at the top of the wish list for renovations and new home builds. Spacious, bright and perfect for the casual contemporary lifestyle, open plan has become synonymous with modern kitchen designs Perth homeowners love. As design trends continue to evolve and push boundaries, many homeowners are now asking, are open plan kitchens losing their allure?

Open plan kitchens became popular because they perfectly fit the busy modern lifestyle.

Families can cook, chat, entertain and even work or study without feeling isolated.

The appeal is obvious – more light, better flow and a sense of spaciousness even in smaller homes. Open plan encourages social interaction, and for those who love hosting dinners and parties, an open plan kitchen is not only a showstopper, but also ensures the host is just as much a part of the action as the guests.

Recently, interior design trends suggest homeowners are reconsidering the open plan layout.

What’s influencing this shift we hear you ask?

Privacy and separation

With the rise of remote and hybrid work, many households now need demand quiet, private spaces for phone calls and Zoom meetings. Open plan kitchens, though undeniably stylish, offer little separation between cooking and living spaces.

Noise and clutter

The open plan dream can sometimes clash with the realities of family life. Without walls to contain it, the sounds of kitchen appliances can carry straight into the lounge, while cooking mess and kids’ toys can easily spill into every corner of the home. For some, a semi-open or closed kitchen creates a more controlled and calmer environment.

Heating and cooling efficiency

Energy-conscious homeowners are also noticing that big open spaces aren’t always the easiest or cheapest to keep comfortable year-round. Smaller, defined rooms tend to hold warmth in winter and stay cooler in summer, making them more appealing in today’s eco-aware world.

Instead of fully closed kitchens, a popular compromise is the semi-open or zoned kitchen. These designs retain the connectivity of open plan spaces while adding defined areas for cooking, dining and living. Sliding glass panels, breakfast bars with partial walls or clever cabinetry that separates zones without cutting off light or flow are all growing in popularity.

The best kitchen renovators in Perth are increasingly helping clients explore these innovative layouts, combining practicality with the aspirational aesthetics of open, airy spaces.

Does this mean open plan kitchens are out?

No! The trend is evolving, rather than disappearing. Open plan kitchens are still highly desirable for entertainment and social living but many homeowners are now prioritising functionality and lifestyle needs over aesthetics.

For example, couples who entertain frequently may still opt for full open plan kitchen designs, while families with children or those working from home may embrace semi-open or zoned layouts.

If you’re thinking about a kitchen renovation, working with trusted professionals makes all the difference. The best kitchen renovators (Perth’s Hollywood Kitchens!) will guide you through trends, materials and layouts, ensuring your kitchen isn’t just beautiful, but also functional and tailored to your lifestyle.

We can help you decide if a fully open plan kitchen still fits your vision, or if a modern, semi-open alternative might be a better choice.

Open plan kitchens aren’t going anywhere, but like every trend they they’re changing to suit a variety of different needs. While their popularity might face some challenges, the concept remains iconic in modern kitchen designs. Perth homeowners can trust our team to perfectly balance aesthetics, functionality, and personal preference in their kitchen renovation. Reach out to us today by calling 08 9302 1156 or contact us online today for expert advice on indoor, outdoor, or alfresco kitchen renovations.