SHOULD YOU DESIGN AN OPEN KITCHEN?

Open floor plans for the kitchen and living

areas are certainly on trend. But when considering one for yourself, think carefully about the needs of your family. Here are Ben Leavitt’s thoughts on the pros and cons of an

open design.

PROS

• NATURAL LIGHT. Open floor plans tend to have more windows than closed galley kitchens. This can be great if you live in a sunny area, or even just want to enjoy the rain and snow in a northern location.

• APPEARANCE OF MORE SPACE. If your home is small, an open kitchen adds a spacious quality to the main level. It helps cultivate a family atmosphere by creating a central hub for all residents to come together. It also allows you to have more cooks in the kitchen, whether you’re having your kids help with the dishes or you’re hosting a party. Bottom line: “The pros of an open concept kitchen are in the name itself,” Ben says. “It’s open, it’s airy, it’s bright.”

CONS

• NOISE. In a house with fewer walls, sound travels, and privacy is almost nonexistent. If the TV is playing in the family room, chances are you’ll hear it loud and clear in the kitchen—whether or not you want to.

• MESS. It’s harder to contain a mess in a larger space. If you have young children, keeping their toys in an enclosed playroom is probably a better option than an open living room/kitchen.

Bottom line: “When the kitchen is messy, so is your house,” Ben says.