🏠

Kitchen Products 499 reviews

FILTER BY CATEGORY

23 Open Plan Kitchen Dining Ideas for Family-Friendly Spaces

Open plan kitchen dining spaces have become the true heart of the home—where homework happens, conversations flow, and weekend breakfasts become cherished memories.

Creating a space that’s both beautiful and functional for your family doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. These 23 inspiring ideas will help you design a gathering spot that works as hard as you do.

Use a Kitchen Island to Zone Your Open Plan Space

zoning open concept with island

Nothing defines an open concept quite like a well-placed kitchen island that naturally separates cooking from lounging. The warm interplay of butcher block wood against sleek quartz countertops creates that perfect balance of rustic charm and modern function. Brushed metal pendant lights overhead catch the light while textured woven barstools invite family to gather around.

Shop The Look:

  1. Butcher block kitchen island countertop
  2. Brushed nickel linear pendant light
  3. Woven rattan counter height barstools
  4. Marble peel and stick backsplash tile
  5. Anti-fatigue kitchen floor mat textured
  6. Stainless steel cabinet pull handles
  7. Clear glass pendant island lighting
  8. Wooden cutting board display set

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Island Base: Paint in “Naval” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6244) for a striking navy anchor that grounds your open space with sophisticated depth.
  • Surrounding Walls: Paint in “Alabaster” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7008) to keep the connected living areas bright and airy while letting your island command attention.

Best For: Large open floor plans where the kitchen flows directly into living and dining areas, needing subtle visual separation without walls.

Create Natural Flow With an L-Shaped Layout

natural flow in l shaped layout

That awkward corner in your open kitchen doesn’t have to feel like wasted space. An L-shaped layout naturally guides movement between cooking and dining zones while keeping conversation flowing. Picture warm wood countertops meeting sleek quartz surfaces, with textured subway tile creating visual interest where the two wings connect.

Shop The Look:

  1. L-shaped kitchen island with seating
  2. Warm wood butcher block countertop
  3. White marble peel and stick backsplash
  4. Modern linear pendant light brass finish
  5. Cushioned anti-fatigue kitchen floor mat
  6. Open corner shelving unit natural wood
  7. Shifting bar stools upholstered seats
  8. Brushed gold cabinet pulls modern style

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Kitchen Cabinets: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) for a crisp, timeless backdrop that maximizes light reflection throughout your L-shaped workspace.
  • Dining Zone Accent Wall: Paint in “Urbane Bronze” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7048) to anchor the connected dining area with sophisticated warmth that defines the space.

Best For: Open concept homes where the kitchen wraps around a corner and needs seamless visual connection to adjacent living or dining areas.

Position Your Dining Table to Catch Natural Light

dining room bathed in natural light

There’s something magical about gathering around a sun-drenched dining table where morning coffee feels like a ritual and Sunday brunch becomes unforgettable. In your open plan kitchen, positioning your table near windows creates a warm, inviting atmosphere where natural wood tones meet crisp white linens and woven textures catch golden rays throughout the day.

Shop The Look:

  1. Natural wood farmhouse dining table
  2. White linen table runner textured
  3. Woven rattan pendant light fixture
  4. Jute area rug natural fiber
  5. Sheer white window curtain panels
  6. White marble peel stick backsplash
  7. Light wood butcher block countertop
  8. Ceramic white vase centerpiece decor

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Dining area accent wall: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) to maximize light reflection and create an airy backdrop that bounces natural sunlight throughout your open space.
  • Window trim and baseboards: Paint in “Natural Linen” (Sherwin-Williams SW 9109) for a warm, creamy tone that complements wooden furniture while softening harsh shifts between wall and window.

Best For: East or south-facing open kitchens with generous window placement where families want to maximize daylight during meal times.

Make a Big Family Table the Heart of Your Room

warm rustic inviting family gathering space

There’s something magical about gathering everyone around one generous table where Sunday dinners turn into lingering conversations and homework sessions happen alongside meal prep. Natural wood tones paired with warm white walls create an inviting atmosphere where rustic farmhouse textures meet smooth painted surfaces. A substantial dining table anchored in your open layout becomes the natural gathering spot that connects cooking and living spaces seamlessly.

Shop The Look:

  1. Large farmhouse extending dining table wood
  2. Upholstered linen dining chairs set
  3. Linear wrought iron chandelier rustic
  4. Natural jute area rug rectangular
  5. Warm wood butcher block countertop
  6. White subway peel stick backsplash tile
  7. Woven seagrass table runner natural
  8. Ceramic stoneware dinnerware set white

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Walls: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) to create a bright, airy backdrop that amplifies natural light and lets your statement table shine as the focal point.
  • Kitchen Island Base: Paint in “Rustic Taupe” (Behr N230-4) to introduce warm wood-inspired undertones that complement your farmhouse table and ground the open space beautifully.

Best For: Spacious open floor plans where families want a dedicated gathering zone that naturally bridges kitchen and living areas for everyday connection.

Add a Breakfast Bar for Busy Weekday Mornings

streamlined inviting transformative morning routine

There’s nothing quite like streamlining your morning routine with a dedicated spot where everyone can grab a quick bite before heading out the door. A breakfast bar featuring warm wood tones against crisp white surfaces creates an inviting gathering point, with sleek quartz countertops meeting rustic wooden bar stools and woven placemats adding textural warmth. This simple addition transforms chaotic mornings into manageable moments of connection.

Shop The Look:

  1. White waterfall quartz countertop contact paper
  2. Rustic wooden swivel bar stools set
  3. Woven rattan breakfast placemats set
  4. Modern brushed nickel pendant light trio
  5. Anti-fatigue kitchen floor mat runner
  6. White subway peel and stick backsplash
  7. Wooden tiered breakfast station organizer
  8. Clear acrylic cereal dispenser storage containers

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Bar Base/Island: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) to create a clean, bright foundation that reflects morning light and keeps the breakfast area feeling fresh and spacious.
  • Accent Wall Behind Bar: Paint in “Warm Caramel” (Sherwin-Williams SW 9534) to introduce cozy wood-inspired tones that complement natural wooden stools and add welcoming warmth to your morning routine.

Best For: Busy family kitchens where quick weekday meals need a designated, functional eating space separate from the main dining area.

Why a Round Table Works Better for Family Conversation

intimate family dining conversation hub

There’s something magical about gathering around a circular table where everyone faces each other naturally, without the hierarchy of head-of-table seating. The smooth curved wood grain of a pedestal base pairs beautifully with soft linen chair cushions and woven placemats, creating an intimate dining zone within your open kitchen. This setup encourages eye contact and easier passing of dishes during busy weeknight dinners.

Shop The Look:

  1. Round pedestal dining table solid wood
  2. Upholstered linen dining chairs set
  3. Woven rattan circular placemats set
  4. Drum shade pendant light brass finish
  5. Round jute area rug natural fiber
  6. Warm wood butcher block countertop
  7. White subway peel stick backsplash tile
  8. Lazy susan wood turntable centerpiece

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Dining Area Accent Wall: Paint in “Accessible Beige” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7036), a warm neutral that creates an intimate backdrop for family gatherings without overwhelming your open concept space.
  • Kitchen Cabinetry: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117), a crisp clean shade that brightens your cooking zone while allowing the natural wood tones of your round table to take center stage.

Best For: Open floor plans where families want to create a distinct yet connected dining area that encourages meaningful conversation and togetherness during meals.

Install Banquette Seating for Storage and Style

multifunctional banquette seating with hidden storage

Transform your open kitchen dining area into a multifunctional haven that works as hard as you do. Built-in banquette seating offers the perfect marriage of comfort and practicality, with hidden storage beneath cushioned seats. Picture soft linen upholstery meeting warm oak wood tones, while woven texture accents complete this inviting gathering spot.

Shop The Look:

  1. L-shaped banquette bench with storage
  2. Linen blend seat cushion covers natural
  3. Woven rattan pendant light fixture
  4. Striped cotton lumbar throw pillows
  5. Oak butcher block countertop surface
  6. Herringbone peel and stick backsplash tile
  7. Jute area rug natural fiber rectangular
  8. Round pedestal dining table wood base

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Banquette Base: Paint in “Alabaster” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7008) for a crisp, clean foundation that brightens your seating nook while complementing natural wood tones throughout the space.
  • Accent Wall Behind Banquette: Paint in “Urbane Bronze” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7048) to create a grounding backdrop that adds sophisticated depth and highlights the storage bench beautifully.

Best For: Smaller open plan kitchens where maximizing seating capacity and hidden storage in the dining zone is essential for busy family life.

Add a Window Seat for Extra Guests and Hidden Storage

cozy window seat with hidden storage

There’s something incredibly inviting about a kitchen window seat that beckons family and friends to linger over morning coffee. The combination of soft linen cushions against warm oak wood creates a cozy nook where conversations naturally flow. Woven storage baskets tucked beneath add texture while keeping clutter out of sight, making this multifunctional feature perfect for busy households.

Shop The Look:

  1. Built-in window seat cushion linen beige
  2. Woven seagrass storage baskets rectangular set
  3. Oak butcher block countertop section
  4. Pendant light natural rattan dome shade
  5. Peel and stick subway tile white gloss
  6. Linen throw pillows neutral tones set
  7. Jute runner rug natural fiber kitchen
  8. Decorative wooden serving tray oak finish

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Window seat base and trim: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) to create a clean, classic foundation that brightens the nook and makes the space feel larger and more open.
  • Surrounding wall accent: Paint in “Warm Oak” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7714) as a soft warm tone that complements natural wood elements and creates cohesion between the seat and kitchen cabinetry.

Best For: Eat-in kitchens with large windows that need additional casual seating and clever storage solutions for families who love to entertain.

Choose Bar Stools That Handle Daily Abuse

durable family friendly kitchen bar stools

Your kitchen bar stools take a beating—sticky fingers, homework sessions, morning coffee spills, and countless sit-downs throughout the day. Selecting durable materials like metal frames with wipeable faux leather seats or solid wood construction with distressed finishes guarantees your seating survives real family life. Pair sturdy black metal bases with warm honey-toned wood seats for that perfect balance of industrial strength and inviting warmth.

Shop The Look:

  1. Black metal swivel bar stool set
  2. Honey wood seat counter height stool
  3. Industrial cage pendant light black finish
  4. Washable kitchen runner rug striped
  5. Butcher block contact paper honey oak
  6. Subway tile peel stick backsplash white
  7. Faux leather seat cushion replacement covers
  8. Metal footrest bar stool protector caps

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Kitchen Island Base: Paint in “Tricorn Black” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6258) for a bold, grounding anchor that hides scuffs and wear while complementing metal bar stool frames.
  • Adjacent Wall or Trim: Paint in “Honey Bees” (Benjamin Moore 2028-40) to echo the warm wood seat tones and create a cheerful, welcoming backdrop for your seating area.

Best For: Busy family kitchens with kids where durability and easy cleaning matter more than delicate designer pieces.

Build Floor-to-Ceiling Cabinets to Clear the Clutter

clean organized maximized inviting

If you’re drowning in small appliances, serving dishes, and holiday tableware with nowhere to hide them, floor-to-ceiling cabinetry transforms wasted vertical space into serious storage. Crisp white cabinet fronts paired with warm natural wood accents create a clean yet inviting backdrop, while brushed metal hardware and smooth matte surfaces add subtle sophistication. This streamlined approach keeps your open concept feeling spacious rather than chaotic.

Shop The Look:

  1. Brushed nickel bar pull cabinet hardware
  2. Natural wood floating display shelf
  3. Woven seagrass storage basket set
  4. Modern brushed nickel pendant light
  5. Natural fiber kitchen runner rug
  6. White marble contact paper countertop
  7. White subway peel and stick backsplash
  8. Clear glass apothecary storage jars

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Upper Cabinet Sections: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) for a bright, timeless finish that maximizes light reflection and makes ceilings appear higher.
  • Lower Cabinet Base or Accent Island: Paint in “Warm Walnut” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7522) to ground the space with rich natural wood tones that complement organic textures.

Best For: Narrow galley-style open kitchens or smaller combined living spaces where maximizing every inch of vertical storage is essential for maintaining a clutter-free entertaining zone.

Add a Pantry Wall to Keep Groceries Out of Sight

seamless storage with hidden essentials

Tired of cereal boxes and snack bags cluttering your beautiful open kitchen? A dedicated pantry wall creates seamless storage that keeps everyday essentials hidden behind sleek doors. Crisp white cabinetry paired with warm wood accents brings clean functionality while natural woven baskets add texture that softens the utilitarian purpose of this hard-working storage solution.

Shop The Look:

  1. Floor to ceiling pantry cabinet system
  2. Woven seagrass storage baskets set
  3. Brushed nickel pantry door pulls
  4. Slim LED pantry interior light strip
  5. Cork shelf liner roll
  6. Clear acrylic pantry storage containers
  7. Washable kitchen runner rug neutral
  8. Wood butcher block countertop section

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Pantry Cabinet Exterior: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) for a fresh, timeless backdrop that makes your pantry wall blend seamlessly with surrounding cabinetry while maximizing light reflection.
  • Pantry Interior Backing: Paint in “Warm Walnut” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7709) to create a rich wood-toned contrast that makes organized items pop and adds unexpected warmth when doors open.

Best For: Open concept kitchens lacking adequate storage where homeowners want bulk groceries and small appliances completely concealed from the dining and living areas.

Reserve Open Shelving for Daily Dishes and Cookbooks

open shelves display essentials

Tired of digging through cluttered cabinets every morning just to find your favorite coffee mug? Open shelving transforms your most-used items into an organized display that’s both functional and beautiful. Natural wood brackets paired with crisp white dishes and colorful cookbook spines create warmth against smooth ceramic and woven basket textures.

Shop The Look:

  1. Floating wood wall shelf with brackets
  2. White ceramic dinnerware set stacked
  3. Wooden cookbook stand holder display
  4. Woven seagrass storage basket set
  5. Rustic wood pendant light fixture
  6. Natural fiber kitchen runner mat
  7. Butcher block countertop cutting board
  8. White subway peel stick backsplash tile

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Wall Behind Shelving: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) to create a clean backdrop that makes dishes and book covers pop while maximizing the airy, curated look.
  • Shelf Brackets/Trim: Paint in “Urbane Bronze” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7048) to add grounding contrast and highlight the architectural detail of your open storage system.

Best For: Smaller kitchens where cabinet-free walls create visual breathing room while keeping everyday essentials within arm’s reach.

Choose LVP or Porcelain for Kid-Proof Floors

kid proof waterproof stylish flooring

When little ones are running through your open kitchen and dining space, you need flooring that survives spills, dropped sippy cups, and endless foot traffic. Luxury vinyl plank offers warm wood-look texture with cushioned comfort underfoot, while porcelain tile delivers cool, sleek durability that wipes clean instantly. Both options pair beautifully with soft area rugs and textured runner mats for added warmth.

Shop The Look:

  1. Waterproof oak-look LVP plank flooring
  2. Gray wood-grain porcelain floor tile
  3. Cushioned anti-fatigue kitchen mat
  4. Washable indoor-outdoor dining area rug
  5. Modern brushed nickel pendant light fixture
  6. Marble-look peel and stick backsplash
  7. Butcher block countertop cutting board style
  8. Waterproof floor connector oak

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Lower Walls: Paint in “Agreeable Gray” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7029) creates a warm neutral backdrop that complements both LVP wood tones and porcelain tile while hiding inevitable scuffs and fingerprints from busy kids.
  • Upper Walls & Trim: Paint in “Pure White” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7005) brightens the open concept space and provides crisp contrast against gray flooring, making the room feel larger and more airy for family gatherings.

Best For: Active family homes with young children needing scratch-resistant, waterproof flooring that maintains style while handling daily chaos from kitchen to dining zones.

Pick Fabrics That Wipe Clean in Seconds

stylish spill proof kitchen design solutions

Life happens in open plan kitchens—spilled coffee, spaghetti sauce splatters, and sticky fingers are just part of daily reality. Choosing performance fabrics in practical neutrals like charcoal gray and crisp white creates a sophisticated look that handles messes without stress. Pair smooth vinyl textures with tightly woven outdoor-grade upholstery and glossy ceramic surfaces for a space that stays beautiful through every family dinner.

Shop The Look:

  1. Charcoal gray performance fabric dining chairs
  2. White wipeable outdoor cushion covers set
  3. Vinyl faux leather kitchen bar stools
  4. Spill-proof fabric tablecloth gray white
  5. Modern brushed nickel pendant light fixture
  6. Washable indoor outdoor kitchen runner rug
  7. White marble peel stick backsplash tiles
  8. Gray quartz look contact paper roll

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Kitchen Island Base: Paint in “Peppercorn” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7674) for a sophisticated charcoal gray that anchors your seating area while hiding everyday scuffs and marks.
  • Open Shelving and Trim: Paint in “Chantilly Lace” (Benjamin Moore OC-65) for a bright, clean white that reflects light and complements your wipeable fabric selections beautifully.

Best For: Busy family kitchens where kids, pets, and frequent entertaining demand stylish surfaces that clean up instantly without sacrificing design appeal.

Pair Wood and Stone for Warmth That Lasts

cozy timeless durable grounded

There’s something deeply satisfying about combining natural wood tones with cool stone surfaces in your kitchen—it creates a space that feels both grounded and timeless. The grain of oak or walnut butcher block against sleek granite or marble countertops brings organic texture that never goes out of style. This pairing delivers cozy warmth balanced by sophisticated durability.

Shop The Look:

  1. Rustic oak pendant light fixture
  2. Natural stone hexagon peel stick backsplash
  3. Walnut butcher block countertop section
  4. Woven jute kitchen runner rug
  5. Stone look ceramic dinner plate set
  6. Reclaimed wood floating shelf
  7. Marble pattern contact paper roll
  8. Natural linen table runner beige

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Island Base: Paint in “Urbane Bronze” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7048) for a rich wood-inspired anchor that complements natural timber accents throughout your space.
  • Upper Walls: Paint in “Gray Owl” (Benjamin Moore OC-52) to echo stone surfaces and create a serene backdrop that highlights your natural materials.

Best For: Bridging kitchens seeking timeless appeal through natural material combinations that age beautifully and never feel trendy or dated.

Hang Pendant Lights to Anchor Your Dining Zone

pendant lights anchor dining area visually

Creating a cohesive dining area within your open-plan kitchen doesn’t require walls or dividers—strategic lighting does the heavy lifting. A cluster of pendant lights positioned directly above your dining table instantly signals “this is where we gather,” while warm metallic finishes catch and reflect light beautifully. The interplay of smooth glass globes against textured woven placemats and natural wood grain creates visual interest that draws family and guests to the table.

Shop The Look:

  1. Three-light cluster pendant glass globes brass
  2. Rectangular natural wood dining table seats six
  3. Woven rattan placemats set of four
  4. Linen blend table runner neutral tones
  5. Modern brass dimmer switch wall plate
  6. Textured ceramic vase centerpiece white
  7. Natural jute area rug rectangular dining
  8. Wood and metal open shelving unit

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Ceiling medallion and trim: Paint in “Brass Brilliance” (Sherwin-Williams SW 9164) to complement your pendant hardware and create an intentional lighting zone overhead.
  • Accent wall behind dining area: Paint in “Naval” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6244) to ground the space and provide dramatic contrast that makes your pendant lights pop.

Best For: Large open-concept spaces where the kitchen flows directly into living areas and needs clear visual boundaries to define the dining zone without blocking sightlines.

Layer Lighting for Homework Time and Dinner Parties

layered lighting creates versatile kitchen atmosphere

After-school math problems and Saturday evening gatherings demand completely different atmospheres in your open plan kitchen. Strategic lighting layers let you shift from bright task illumination to warm ambient glow with a simple dimmer adjustment. Combining brushed nickel pendants with woven rattan shades creates visual interest while matte ceramic accessories add softness throughout the space.

Shop The Look:

  1. Dimmable brushed nickel pendant light set
  2. Rattan drum shade ceiling light fixture
  3. Under cabinet LED light strip kit
  4. Matte ceramic table lamp neutral tone
  5. Washable kitchen runner rug textured weave
  6. Marble look peel and stick backsplash
  7. Butcher block countertop cutting board large
  8. Dimmer switch wall plate brushed nickel

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Kitchen Island Base: Paint in “Snowbound” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7004) for a crisp white foundation that reflects light beautifully during homework sessions and bounces ambient glow during evening entertaining.
  • Accent Wall Behind Dining Area: Paint in “Urbane Bronze” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7048) to create a warm bronze backdrop that absorbs harsh light and sets an intimate dinner party mood.

Best For: Busy family kitchens that move from daytime activity hub to evening entertainment space requiring flexible, multi-functional lighting control.

Carve Out a Play Area You Can See While Cooking

cozy play zone within kitchen sightline

Keeping little ones entertained while preparing dinner feels like an Olympic sport for busy moms managing open concept kitchens. A dedicated play zone within your sightline brings peace of mind, combining soft cream walls with cheerful apple green accents that energize the space. Natural wood textures from play furniture pair beautifully with plush area rugs and woven storage baskets, creating a cozy corner that blends seamlessly with your kitchen aesthetic.

Shop The Look:

  1. Washable cotton play area rug
  2. Natural wood kids activity table set
  3. Woven seagrass toy storage baskets
  4. Soft glow pendant light nursery style
  5. Cork peel and stick backsplash tiles
  6. Light maple butcher block countertop cover
  7. Cushioned anti-fatigue kitchen floor mat
  8. Wall-mounted wooden book display shelf

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Play area accent wall: Paint in “Lime Fizz” (Behr P370-4) to create an energizing focal point that stimulates creativity while remaining visible from your cooking station.
  • Surrounding kitchen walls: Paint in “Swiss Coffee” (Benjamin Moore OC-45) for a warm cream backdrop that brightens the entire open space and coordinates with natural wood tones.

Best For: Open concept kitchen-living spaces where parents need clear sightlines to children’s play areas while preparing meals.

Create a Homework Nook Within Arm’s Reach

cozy practical connected homework nook

Keeping kids close while prepping dinner makes weeknight chaos more manageable for busy moms. A dedicated homework station tucked into your open kitchen creates supervision without sacrifice, blending warm wood tones with crisp white surfaces and soft woven textures. This practical setup lets you monitor math problems while stirring pasta, keeping everyone connected.

Shop The Look:

  1. White floating wall desk with drawer
  2. Woven rattan desk chair with cushion
  3. Brass adjustable swing arm wall sconce
  4. Cork bulletin board with wood frame
  5. Natural jute desk mat runner
  6. White wood grain contact paper roll
  7. White subway peel and stick tile
  8. Rattan pencil holder desk organizer set

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Nook Accent Wall: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) to create a bright, focused study backdrop that maximizes light and concentration.
  • Desk Alcove Interior: Paint in “Warm Caramel” (Sherwin-Williams SW 9115) adding cozy warmth that complements natural wood elements and rattan textures throughout the space.

Best For: Open concept kitchens with unused corner spaces or awkward alcoves near the main cooking zone where parents can easily supervise children during after-school hours.

Add a Rug to Soften Falls and Quiet the Noise

softening falls quieting noise transformative rugs

There’s nothing quite like the jarring echo of dropped utensils on hard floors or the worry of little ones taking tumbles in your busy kitchen-dining space. A well-placed rug transforms your open plan area instantly, adding warmth underfoot while cushioning inevitable spills and falls. Layer plush textures with low-pile durability where cooking meets gathering for both safety and style.

Shop The Look:

  1. Washable low-pile kitchen runner rug
  2. Memory foam anti-fatigue standing mat
  3. Woven jute dining area rug
  4. Brushed nickel pendant light fixture
  5. Peel and stick subway tile backsplash
  6. Butcher block countertop cutting board style
  7. Non-slip rug gripper pad underlay
  8. Textured cotton table runner neutral

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Lower Walls: Paint in “Agreeable Gray” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7029) creates a soft, warm neutral backdrop that lets your rug patterns pop while hiding everyday scuffs and marks.
  • Upper Walls and Trim: Paint in “Pure White” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7005) brightens the space and draws the eye upward, making your open concept feel airy and expansive.

Best For: Active households with children or pets needing sound absorption and fall protection in high-traffic open concept kitchen-dining areas.

Install a Bold Splashback as Your Focal Point

focal point kitchen backsplash transformation

Nothing transforms a kitchen quite like a statement backsplash that draws every eye in the room. When you’re working with an open plan space, that bold splashback becomes the anchor that ties your cooking and dining zones together beautifully. Picture glossy ceramic tiles catching the light while textured grout lines add dimension, complemented by sleek quartz countertops that reflect your design confidence. This focal point approach lets you express personality without overwhelming the entire space.

Shop The Look:

  1. Geometric patterned peel and stick backsplash tiles
  2. Moroccan-inspired ceramic wall tile sheets
  3. Brushed gold pendant light fixture
  4. White quartz look contact paper countertop
  5. Cushioned anti-fatigue kitchen floor mat
  6. Clear glass decorative vases set
  7. Brass floating shelf brackets pair
  8. Textured ceramic utensil holder crock

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Kitchen Island Base: Paint in “Naval” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6244), a dramatic deep navy that grounds your bold backsplash and creates stunning contrast against lighter tiles and countertops.
  • Surrounding Walls: Paint in “Extra White” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7006), a crisp clean white that lets your statement splashback truly shine as the undisputed star of the space.

Best For: Open concept kitchens where you want dramatic visual impact without committing to a full renovation, perfect for renters or homeowners seeking weekend-friendly transformation.

Stick to Three Colors That Flow Through Both Zones

cohesive three color open concept design

Creating a cohesive open plan kitchen dining space doesn’t require complicated design formulas—just a disciplined three-color palette that travels seamlessly between zones. When you limit yourself to three intentional hues, the eye moves effortlessly from cooking to dining areas, making even modest square footage feel expansive and thoughtfully designed.

Shop The Look:

  1. Woven rattan pendant light natural finish
  2. Jute natural fiber area rug
  3. White marble contact paper countertop roll
  4. Neutral subway tile peel stick backsplash
  5. Ceramic dinnerware set three color palette
  6. Linen blend table runner neutral tones
  7. Coordinating kitchen towel set cotton
  8. Stoneware decorative bowl centerpiece

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Kitchen Walls: Paint in “Chantilly Lace” (Benjamin Moore OC-65) crisp white that creates clean backdrop connecting to dining area trim and ceiling.
  • Dining Accent Wall: Paint in “Iron Ore” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7069) deep charcoal anchoring the dining zone while echoing kitchen hardware and light fixtures.
  • Trim Throughout: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) warm white unifying both zones with consistent architectural detail.

Best For: Open concept spaces where kitchen and dining areas share sightlines and need visual continuity without feeling monotonous.

Match Hardware Across Cabinets and Furniture

hardware cohesion across spaces

Creating visual harmony in your open plan kitchen dining space starts with one often-overlooked detail: coordinating hardware throughout. When brushed brass handles appear on both your kitchen cabinets and dining buffet, the repetition creates intentional flow. Pair matte metal finishes with warm wood grain textures and smooth ceramic surfaces for a polished, collected look.

Shop The Look:

  1. Brushed brass cabinet cup pulls set
  2. Matching brass dining furniture knobs
  3. Brass pendant light with glass shade
  4. Woven jute runner rug natural fiber
  5. Butcher block countertop walnut finish
  6. Peel and stick subway tile white
  7. Brass cabinet bar pulls modern style
  8. Ceramic decorative vase textured white

DIY Paint Transformation

  • Kitchen Cabinets: Paint in “Accessible Beige” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7036) for a warm neutral base that lets brass hardware shine as the focal point across your cabinetry.
  • Dining Buffet/Hutch: Paint in “Iron Ore” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7069) to create sophisticated contrast while maintaining cohesion through matching brass pulls and knobs.

Best For: Open concept spaces where kitchen flows directly into dining areas, allowing coordinated hardware to create seamless visual continuity between functional zones.

Our Top Picks
Next Post