6 interior designer tips to separate the open kitchen from the living room

A common feature of more modern apartments and compact homes is an open kitchen and living space. With this trend in mind and as specialist bespoke interior designers in London, we’ve compiled some of our top tips to make these two rooms feel more separate.

1) Strong use of colour to divide rooms

Using bold colours to accessorise your living room is a clever way of creating a more defined environment. Adding colour through soft furnishings such as cushions and throws is a subtle way of drawing the eye in. Isolate the colour to your living room only to create a cohesive look to the living room and keeping it separate from the kitchen.

2) Create a natural partition by using furniture

To naturally divide the spaces, you can use large pieces of furniture. Where you have the room, a corner sofa facing the kitchen can act as a partition without closing in either of the spaces.

Placing your dining table and chairs between the spaces will create a division whilst creating a small dining area that blends into your room.

If you have a tall bookshelf, try placing it where you’d like the rooms to divide. The height will create a half-wall partition, which won’t feel as enclosed as a wall but will create two separate spaces. Face the bookshelf into the living room and decorate it with books and ornaments.

If a bookshelf isn’t to your taste, try using an open shelving unit instead, which can then be dressed for either room. Adding wicker or woven baskets to some of the shelves will provide additional storage space that will be useful for both areas.

3) Install an island counter to separate your kitchen and living spaces

Separate your rooms without closing either of your spaces by adding an island counter. You can also add modern bar stools beneath the counter, facing the kitchen. Our residential interior design service is perfect if you want some specialist advice and vision from experienced interior designers.

4) A variation of wall textures to separate rooms

Using a variation of wall textures between the rooms is an exciting way to create a definition in the spaces. An industrial brick wall looks great in kitchens with dark counters and appliances. For your living space, try something more subtle and accessorise with statement artwork.

5) Use alternative flooring to separate open-plan living rooms

If your budget allows, using alternate flooring in two contrasting colours, styles or materials can create different moods within the spaces. Another practical option is to include a large, textured rug beneath furniture to help make the illusion of alternate flooring whilst still adding warmth.

6) Use contrast to separate kitchen and living areas

Use a neutral colour palette in both areas and decorate with contrasting furniture for more modern properties. Use dark counters and appliances in your kitchen and white and cream tones in your living room.  You can create an elegant yet contemporary look with a monochromatic contrast.

Work with our team of luxury interior designers based in London

At Roselind Wilson Design, we’d be happy to help provide design direction in terms of how to separate your kitchen and living spaces using our interior designers’ expertise. Contact us today online or call 0203 371 1779 to discuss your home renovation project.