Independent or open kitchen: Which one to choose?

The design of the kitchen is one of the most important decisions when building a home, so it is essential to decide from the beginning whether you are looking for an independent kitchen or an open one.

Choosing the freestanding or open kitchen type can improve the functionality, style and comfort of your home.

In this article, we'll look at the pros and cons of freestanding and open plan kitchens to help you make the best decision for your needs.

What is an independent kitchen?

A separate kitchen, also known as a closed kitchen, is a space isolated from the rest of the house by walls or doors. This type of kitchen offers greater privacy and control over odors and noise.

Advantages of independent kitchens:

• Privacy: It allows you to cook with greater privacy and without feeling watched.


• Odor and noise control: The smells and noise from the kitchen stay inside, which does not bother the rest of the family.


• More storage space: Independent kitchens usually have more storage space than open kitchens, since the walls can be used to place cabinets and shelves.


• Ease of maintaining order: Being separated from the rest of the house, it is easier to keep the kitchen tidy and clean.

Disadvantages of independent kitchens:

• Less social interaction: It isolates you from the rest of the family while you cook.


• Difficulty supervising children: If you have small children, a closed kitchen makes it difficult for you to keep an eye on them while you cook.


• Feeling of claustrophobia: Closed kitchens can seem small and uninviting.


• Less space: Closed kitchens are usually smaller than open kitchens, since the space occupied by the walls must be subtracted.

Which is a open kitchen?

An open kitchen, also known as an American kitchen, is a space integrated into the rest of the house, generally the living room or dining room. This type of kitchen allows for greater social interaction while cooking, since there are no physical barriers separating you from the rest of the family or guests.

Advantages of open kitchens:

• Greater social interaction: You can prepare food while talking with your family or friends, creating a more pleasant and familiar atmosphere.


• Supervision of children: If you have small children, an open kitchen allows you to keep an eye on them while you cook, which gives you greater peace of mind.


• Feeling of spaciousness: By eliminating the walls that separate the kitchen from the rest of the house, a feeling of greater space and light is created.


• More space: Open kitchens are usually more spacious than closed ones, since there are no walls to take up space.


• Improves the fluidity of space: Allows better circulation and movement within the home.

Disadvantages of open kitchens:

• Smells and noise: Odors and noise from the kitchen can spread to the rest of the house.
• Lack of privacy: If you're cooking something that requires a lot of attention, you may feel uncomfortable being visible to everyone.
• Less storage space: Being more open, open kitchens usually have less storage space than closed ones.
• Difficulty maintaining order: Being integrated into the rest of the house, it can be more difficult to keep the kitchen tidy and clean.

Which one to choose, independent or open kitchen?

The decision to choose a freestanding or open kitchen depends on your needs and preferences. If you like to cook with music or podcasts, or if you want to stay connected with the rest of the family while you cook, an open kitchen may be the best option for you. If you prefer to cook in a private, quiet space, or if you have small children you need to supervise, an enclosed kitchen may be more suitable.

Other factors to consider:

• House size: If your house is small, an open kitchen can help you make better use of space.Lifestyle: If you are a person who cooks a lot, a closed kitchen may be more practical for you.Budget: Open kitchens are usually more expensive than closed ones.

There is no single answer to the question of what type of cuisine is best. The best option for you will depend on your needs, preferences and budget. Before making a decision, I recommend that you consider the advantages and disadvantages of each type of cuisine.