23 Semi Open Kitchen Designs for the Best of Both Worlds

Can’t decide between an open floor plan and a traditional closed kitchen? You’re not alone. A semi open kitchen offers the perfect middle ground—letting natural light flow freely while keeping cooking messes tucked away.

From partial walls to clever shelving solutions, these 23 inspiring designs prove you really can have the best of both worlds.

What Makes a Semi Open Kitchen Different?

If you’ve been dreaming of a kitchen that feels connected yet still defined, you’re not alone. The semi open concept strikes that perfect balance between togetherness and practical separation, where warm wood tones meet crisp white surfaces and textured stone countertops create visual interest. This layout lets you stay part of the conversation while keeping cooking chaos contained.

Shop The Look:

1. Frosted glass partition panel room divider
2. Waterfall edge butcher block countertop
3. Marble peel and stick backsplash tiles
4. Bronze semi-flush mount kitchen ceiling light
5. Cushioned anti-fatigue kitchen floor mat
6. Pass-through window shelf floating ledge
7. Woven rattan pendant light natural fiber
8. Stone look contact paper granite pattern

DIY Paint Transformation

• Half Wall Partition: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) to create an airy, open feel while maintaining architectural definition between spaces.
• Kitchen Side Accent: Paint in “Warm Cognac” (Sherwin-Williams SW 9537) to add rich wooden warmth that grounds the cooking area and complements natural butcher block surfaces.

Best For: Ranch-style homes or open floor plans where homeowners want kitchen definition without sacrificing that connected family feel.

Half Wall With Built-In Breakfast Bar

There’s something wonderfully practical about a half wall that pulls double duty as your morning coffee spot. This clever design lets you keep an eye on the living room while flipping pancakes, creating that connected feeling without sacrificing counter space. The combination of smooth painted drywall meeting warm butcher block creates an inviting textural contrast that feels both polished and approachable.

Shop The Look:

1. Butcher block breakfast bar countertop
2. Brushed nickel pendant lights set of two
3. Backless counter height bar stools
4. Peel and stick subway tile backsplash
5. Cushioned anti-fatigue kitchen floor mat
6. Half wall cap molding trim piece
7. Outlet pop-up power station countertop
8. Woven seagrass placemats set of four

DIY Paint Transformation

• Half Wall Base: Paint in “Accessible Beige” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7036) for a warm neutral that grounds the breakfast bar while complementing natural wood tones beautifully.
• Upper Kitchen Walls: Paint in “Iron Ore” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7069) as a dramatic charcoal accent that defines the kitchen zone and creates striking contrast against the lighter half wall.

Best For: Open concept homes where families want casual dining convenience without committing to a full kitchen island or sacrificing valuable floor space.

Waist-Height Pony Wall With Open Shelving

That awkward junction between your cooking space and living area doesn’t have to feel like a design afterthought. A waist-height pony wall creates the perfect balance—offering just enough separation while keeping sightlines open for family connection. The combination of smooth drywall texture against rustic wood shelving and cool metal bracket hardware brings depth and character to this functional divider.

Shop The Look:

1. Floating wood shelves with metal brackets
2. Industrial pipe shelf brackets black iron
3. Woven seagrass storage baskets rectangular
4. Pendant light industrial cage style
5. Cushioned anti-fatigue kitchen floor mat
6. Butcher block countertop contact paper oak
7. Peel and stick subway tile white
8. Decorative ceramic kitchen canisters set

DIY Paint Transformation

• Pony Wall: Paint in “Repose Gray” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7015) for a sophisticated neutral that anchors the half wall while complementing both modern and traditional kitchen elements.
• Open Shelving Backdrop: Paint in “Extra White” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7006) to create crisp contrast behind your displayed items and maximize the sense of openness above the pony wall.

Best For: Open-concept homes where homeowners want subtle kitchen definition without sacrificing the connected feel between cooking and living spaces.

Partial Wall With an Interior Window Cutout

That half-wall separating your kitchen has so much untapped potential. By adding an interior window cutout, you create a charming pass-through that connects spaces while maintaining architectural definition. The combination of smooth drywall framing around the opening paired with textured stone or brick accents brings visual depth that feels both classic and contemporary.

Shop The Look:

1. Brushed nickel pendant light for window cutout
2. Cushioned anti-fatigue kitchen floor mat
3. White marble contact paper countertop cover
4. Subway tile peel and stick backsplash
5. Wooden floating shelf for window ledge
6. Decorative corbels for cutout frame support
7. Woven basket counter storage organizer
8. Ceramic herb planter windowsill set

DIY Paint Transformation

• Partial Wall Surrounding Cutout: Paint in “Swiss Coffee” (Benjamin Moore OC-45) creates a warm, inviting frame that highlights the architectural window feature while brightening the bridging space.
• Kitchen Side Accent Wall: Paint in “Iron Ore” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7069) adds sophisticated contrast and depth, making the window cutout pop as a stunning focal point between rooms.

Best For: Open-concept homes where homeowners want visual connection between kitchen and living areas while preserving some structural separation and defined zones.

Raised Countertop Ledge to Hide Kitchen Mess

We’ve all been there—guests arriving while dishes pile up and prep chaos covers every surface. A raised countertop ledge creates that perfect visual barrier between your working kitchen and entertaining space. The smooth quartz surface pairs beautifully with warm wood grain textures underneath, while brushed metal hardware adds sophisticated contrast that catches the light just right.

Shop The Look:

1. Waterfall edge quartz countertop sample white
2. Brushed nickel pendant lights bar height
3. Wooden butcher block countertop section oak
4. Anti-fatigue kitchen mat cushioned neutral
5. Peel and stick marble backsplash tile
6. Bar height wooden stools cushioned seat
7. Decorative bowl centerpiece ceramic matte
8. Under cabinet LED light strip warm

DIY Paint Transformation

• Lower cabinets: Paint in “Snowbound” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7004) for a crisp, clean white that brightens your working zone while making the raised ledge pop as an architectural feature.
• Kitchen island base: Paint in “Urbane Bronze” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7048) to ground the space with warm bronze-brown tones that complement natural wood countertop elements beautifully.

Best For: Open concept homes where the kitchen faces living or dining areas and homeowners want functional workspace privacy without sacrificing the connected, airy feeling of modern floor plans.

Mixed Stone-and-Glass Partition for Custom Style

Creating a kitchen that feels both grounded and airy becomes effortless when you combine natural stone’s rugged texture with glass’s sleek transparency. The warm gray tones of stacked stone meet cool clear glass panels, producing visual depth that draws the eye while maintaining openness. This sophisticated pairing lets you enjoy the best of both materials—substantial presence without sacrificing light flow throughout your cooking and living spaces.

Shop The Look:

1. Stacked stone veneer panel peel stick
2. Frosted glass room divider panel
3. Industrial bronze pendant light fixture
4. Stone-look porcelain floor tile gray
5. Woven jute kitchen runner rug
6. Gray marble contact paper countertop
7. Stone mosaic peel stick backsplash tile
8. Brushed nickel cabinet bar pulls

DIY Paint Transformation

• Kitchen Island Base: Paint in “Gray Matters” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7066) to echo the natural stone partition’s earthy undertones while grounding your workspace with sophisticated warmth.
• Upper Wall Sections: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) to complement glass elements and maximize light reflection, creating that seamless indoor-outdoor connection near your partition.

Best For: Open-concept homes where homeowners want architectural interest and defined zones without blocking natural light between kitchen and living areas.

Glass Partition That Blocks Odors but Not Light

Cooking aromatic dishes shouldn’t mean your entire home smells like last night’s dinner for days. A floor-to-ceiling glass partition creates that essential barrier between your kitchen and living spaces while maintaining the bright, open feel you love. The sleek transparency of tempered glass paired with brushed metal frames and smooth quartz surfaces delivers modern functionality without visual compromise.

Shop The Look:

1. Floor to ceiling tempered glass room divider
2. Brushed nickel sliding glass door hardware kit
3. Modern chrome pendant light clear glass shade
4. Anti-fatigue kitchen mat geometric pattern
5. White marble contact paper countertop adhesive
6. Clear glass subway tile peel stick backsplash
7. Stainless steel cabinet pull handles modern
8. Glass floating shelf with chrome brackets

DIY Paint Transformation

• Kitchen Walls: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) to maximize light reflection through your glass partition, creating an airy backdrop that lets the transparent divider shine as the focal point.
• Accent Trim/Frame: Paint in “Wrought Iron” (Benjamin Moore 2124-10) on window frames and door casings to complement brushed metal hardware and add sophisticated contrast against the glass elements.

Best For: Open-concept homes where serious cooking happens regularly but maintaining visual connection to living and dining areas remains a priority.

Frosted Glass Panels for Privacy With Modern Flair

Creating that perfect balance between openness and separation can feel impossible when you’re redesigning your kitchen space. Frosted glass panels offer a sophisticated solution, allowing light to flow through while maintaining visual privacy from adjacent rooms. The smooth, translucent texture pairs beautifully with sleek metallic hardware and polished concrete or quartz surfaces, delivering contemporary elegance without sacrificing function.

Shop The Look:

1. Frosted glass room divider panel freestanding
2. Brushed nickel modern pendant light fixture
3. Gray quartz countertop contact paper roll
4. White glass subway tile peel stick
5. Stainless steel cabinet pull handles modern
6. Gray geometric kitchen runner mat
7. Frosted glass floating shelf brackets
8. Modern chrome soap dispenser glass

DIY Paint Transformation

• Kitchen Walls: Paint in “Agreeable Gray” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7029) for a warm neutral backdrop that complements frosted glass panels and enhances natural light reflection throughout your semi-open space.
• Accent Wall or Trim: Paint in “Extra White” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7006) to create crisp, clean contrast that emphasizes the modern aesthetic and makes frosted glass elements pop beautifully.

Best For: Contemporary homes with open floor plans where homeowners want to define kitchen boundaries while maintaining an airy, light-filled atmosphere and sleek, minimalist design appeal.

Steel-Framed Glass Wall for Industrial Edge

The bold contrast of black steel frames against clear glass panels creates that coveted loft-style aesthetic right in your kitchen. Picture sleek metal mullions catching light while textured concrete countertops and exposed brick add raw, urban warmth. This look delivers factory-chic sophistication without sacrificing the connection between your cooking and living spaces.

Shop The Look:

1. Black steel-framed glass partition panel system
2. Industrial cage pendant light matte black
3. Concrete-look contact paper for countertops
4. Subway tile peel stick backsplash white
5. Black metal floating shelves open storage
6. Industrial rubber kitchen floor mat black
7. Wire mesh pendant light industrial style
8. Black iron pot rack ceiling mount

DIY Paint Transformation

• Steel-Frame Accent Wall: Paint in “Wrought Iron” (Benjamin Moore 2124-10) on the wall surrounding your glass partition to emphasize the industrial framework and create dramatic architectural definition.
• Surrounding Kitchen Walls: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) to maximize light reflection through glass panels and maintain that airy loft atmosphere throughout the space.

Best For: Urban apartments, converted lofts, or modern homes where homeowners want to define the kitchen space while maintaining an open, connected floor plan with edgy industrial character.

Bi-Fold Glass Panels for Maximum Flexibility

Transform your kitchen connection with the ultimate in adaptable design. Bi-fold glass panels let you enjoy an open concept when entertaining, then fold closed when you need separation from cooking aromas or noise. The sleek glass surfaces paired with brushed metal frames and polished concrete flooring create an industrial-chic aesthetic that feels both modern and inviting.

Shop The Look:

1. Brushed nickel bi-fold door hardware kit
2. Industrial cage pendant light black metal
3. Concrete gray peel and stick flooring
4. Gray marble contact paper countertop roll
5. Clear glass subway tile peel stick
6. Woven charcoal gray kitchen runner mat
7. Stainless steel floating shelf brackets set
8. Smoked glass decorative vase centerpiece

DIY Paint Transformation

• Kitchen Walls: Paint in “Gray Owl” (Benjamin Moore OC-52) to complement the sleek glass panels with a sophisticated neutral backdrop that enhances natural light reflection.
• Accent Trim/Frames: Paint in “Wrought Iron” (Benjamin Moore 2124-10) to define the industrial framework and create striking contrast against transparent glass elements.

Best For: Open floor plans where homeowners want the flexibility to create separation during cooking while maintaining an airy, connected feel for everyday living and entertaining.

Pocket Door That Vanishes When Not Needed

There’s something magical about a kitchen that transforms on command—open and airy when you’re entertaining, then tucked away when you need focus elsewhere. The pocket door solution combines sleek white frames with warm wood grain panels, creating visual interest through the interplay of smooth painted surfaces, natural timber textures, and brushed metal hardware. This design gives you complete control over your space without sacrificing style.

Shop The Look:

1. White frame pocket door hardware kit
2. Wood grain sliding door panel insert
3. Brushed nickel recessed door pull
4. Soft close pocket door mechanism set
5. Modern linear pendant light brass finish
6. Washable cushioned kitchen runner mat
7. White marble peel and stick backsplash
8. Butcher block countertop solid wood

DIY Paint Transformation

• Door Frame & Trim: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) for a crisp, clean boundary that makes the pocket door vanish seamlessly into your walls when open.
• Kitchen Accent Wall: Paint in “Warm Walnut” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7592) to complement the wood grain door panel and create cohesive warmth throughout the integration space.

Best For: Open floor plans where homeowners want the option to visually separate the kitchen from living or dining areas during meal prep or cleanup without permanent barriers.

Wide Cased Opening That Frames the Kitchen

That dated doorway between your kitchen and living space might just need some architectural attention rather than complete removal. A substantial cased opening creates beautiful definition while maintaining visual flow, letting warm wood tones play against crisp painted millwork. The layered molding profiles add depth and character that draws the eye naturally toward your cooking space.

Shop The Look:

1. Decorative fluted wood casing trim kit
2. Brushed brass semi-flush ceiling mount light
3. Natural fiber woven kitchen runner rug
4. Marble look peel and stick backsplash
5. Butcher block countertop cutting surface
6. Architectural corbel shelf brackets pair
7. Linen textured Roman shade valance
8. Ceramic utensil crock farmhouse style

DIY Paint Transformation

• Cased Opening Trim: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) to create a clean architectural frame that highlights the passage between spaces with timeless appeal.
• Kitchen Walls Beyond Opening: Paint in “Accessible Beige” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7036) for warm neutral depth that complements wood accents and feels inviting through the framed view.

Best For: Traditional or transitional homes where maintaining architectural character matters more than achieving a completely open concept layout.

Arched Doorway for Mediterranean Warmth

Transform your semi-open kitchen with the romantic charm of a Mediterranean-inspired arched doorway that bridges cooking and living spaces beautifully. Warm terracotta tones pair with creamy white plaster textures, while rustic wrought iron accents and natural stone surfaces create an inviting Old World atmosphere. This timeless approach brings European villa elegance to your everyday cooking experience.

Shop The Look:

1. Wrought iron pendant light Mediterranean style
2. Terracotta patterned kitchen floor mat
3. Cream stone contact paper countertop wrap
4. Moroccan peel and stick tile backsplash
5. Rustic wooden floating shelf with brackets
6. Ceramic olive oil dispenser set
7. Hammered copper utensil holder crock
8. Woven seagrass storage basket set

DIY Paint Transformation

• Archway and Trim: Paint in “Alabaster” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7008) to create that authentic sun-bleached plaster appearance that defines Mediterranean architecture and brightens the kitchen entry.
• Accent Wall or Niche: Paint in “Cavern Clay” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7701) to capture warm terracotta warmth that evokes Tuscan hillside homes and adds rich, earthy depth to your space.

Best For: Ranch homes or open floor plans where homeowners want to define the kitchen boundary while maintaining visual flow and adding architectural character without major renovation.

Kitchen Island as a Natural Room Divider

Creating that perfect flow between cooking and living spaces doesn’t require walls when you have a well-positioned island doing the heavy lifting. The combination of warm wood grain on your island base with sleek quartz countertops and woven pendant lighting creates visual interest while maintaining openness. This approach lets you stay connected with family while defining distinct functional zones.

Shop The Look:

1. Waterfall edge quartz countertop contact paper
2. Woven rattan dome pendant light fixture
3. Cushioned anti-fatigue kitchen floor mat
4. Marble hexagon peel and stick backsplash
5. Wooden kitchen island with open shelving
6. Upholstered backless counter height stools
7. Ceramic utensil crock natural texture finish
8. Brass pull-down kitchen faucet modern design

DIY Paint Transformation

• Island Base: Paint in “Agreeable Gray” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7029) to create a sophisticated neutral foundation that bridges your kitchen and living areas seamlessly.
• Accent Wall Behind Range: Paint in “Naval” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6244) to add dramatic depth that anchors the cooking zone while complementing gray undertones throughout the space.

Best For: Open-concept homes where homeowners want kitchen definition without sacrificing the connected, airy feel perfect for entertaining and family gatherings.

Peninsula Layout That Defines Without Enclosing

Creating separation between your kitchen and living space doesn’t require building walls. A peninsula layout offers the perfect compromise—establishing clear zones while maintaining that coveted open flow. The smooth quartz countertop extending from your cabinetry provides bar seating, while textured pendant lights above cast warm pools of light. Brushed metal hardware adds subtle sophistication to this functional design.

Shop The Look:

1. Brushed nickel industrial pendant light trio
2. Cushioned anti-fatigue kitchen floor mat
3. White marble contact paper countertop cover
4. Subway tile peel and stick backsplash
5. Upholstered swivel counter height bar stools
6. Brushed nickel cabinet pulls multipack
7. Glass pendant light with metal cage
8. Waterproof vinyl plank flooring kitchen

DIY Paint Transformation

• Peninsula Base: Paint in “Kendall Charcoal” (Benjamin Moore HC-166) for a grounding anchor that defines the workspace while complementing stainless appliances and brushed nickel fixtures.
• Surrounding Walls: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) to maximize light reflection and create seamless visual flow between kitchen and adjacent living areas.

Best For: Open-concept homes where homeowners want subtle kitchen boundaries without sacrificing conversation flow or sightlines to family gathering spaces.

Banquette Seating That Backs Into the Kitchen

Creating a seamless shift between your dining and cooking spaces doesn’t require a complete renovation. A built-in banquette that backs directly into your kitchen island or peninsula offers clever dual-purpose functionality that maximizes square footage. The upholstered cushions in warm neutrals against smooth wood framing create an inviting breakfast nook while maintaining that coveted open-concept flow.

Shop The Look:

1. L-shaped banquette bench with storage
2. Tufted linen seat cushions neutral tone
3. Round pedestal dining table wood
4. Pendant drum light fabric shade
5. Washable kitchen runner rug geometric
6. Marble contact paper countertop adhesive
7. Subway tile peel stick backsplash white
8. Lumbar throw pillows textured set

DIY Paint Transformation

• Banquette Base & Trim: Paint in “Accessible Beige” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7036), a versatile warm neutral that grounds your seating area while complementing natural wood tones and linen upholstery throughout the space.
• Kitchen-Facing Back Panel: Paint in “Naval” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6244), a sophisticated deep navy that defines the kitchen side of your banquette and creates striking contrast against light countertops and backsplash.

Best For: Smaller eat-in kitchens where traditional dining tables consume valuable floor space, or open-concept homes needing subtle zone definition between cooking and dining areas.

Slatted Wood Screen for Warmth and Airflow

There’s something deeply satisfying about a kitchen that feels connected yet defined, where warm honey wood tones meet soft cream backgrounds in perfect harmony. The natural grain of slatted screens creates rhythm and texture, while allowing light and conversation to flow freely between spaces. This design brings organic warmth that makes everyday cooking feel like a retreat.

Shop The Look:

1. Vertical slatted wood room divider screen
2. Natural rattan pendant light fixture
3. Cream woven cotton kitchen runner
4. Butcher block countertop wood grain contact paper
5. Cream subway tile peel and stick backsplash
6. Wooden floating shelf with metal brackets
7. Natural linen cafe curtains cream
8. Bamboo drawer organizer kitchen set

DIY Paint Transformation

• Kitchen Walls: Paint in “Navajo White” (Benjamin Moore OC-95), a warm cream that enhances natural wood tones and creates a sunlit backdrop for slatted screens.
• Accent Wall or Trim: Paint in “Warm Honey” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6661), a golden wood-inspired shade that echoes the slatted divider and adds cohesive warmth.

Best For: Open-concept homes needing subtle separation between kitchen and living areas without sacrificing natural light or airflow.

Double-Sided Fireplace as a Semi Open Anchor

There’s something magical about a fireplace you can enjoy from both your kitchen and living space—it creates connection while maintaining that sense of separation we sometimes crave. The warmth of natural stone texture meets sleek metal surrounds, with smooth concrete or plaster finishes tying everything together. This architectural feature becomes the heart of your semi open design.

Shop The Look:

1. Double-sided electric fireplace insert modern
2. Stacked stone peel and stick panels
3. Black metal fireplace surround trim kit
4. Concrete look countertop contact paper gray
5. Herringbone marble peel stick backsplash tile
6. Industrial black cage pendant light fixture
7. Stone textured hearth-style kitchen runner rug
8. Floating wood mantel shelf rustic beam

DIY Paint Transformation

• Kitchen Side Wall: Paint in “Repose Gray” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7015) to create a sophisticated neutral backdrop that lets the fireplace stone texture take center stage while complementing concrete-look surfaces.
• Living Room Accent Wall: Paint in “Tricorn Black” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6258) to frame the fireplace opening dramatically, adding modern contrast that highlights the dancing flames and draws the eye through both spaces.

Best For: Open concept homes where homeowners want visual separation between kitchen and living areas without sacrificing warmth, connection, or that coveted gathering spot for family and guests.

Stepped Ceiling That Zones Without Walls

Creating distinct spaces in your semi open kitchen doesn’t require building permanent barriers. A stepped ceiling design uses architectural depth and visual interest to separate cooking and living areas while maintaining that connected flow you love. The interplay of smooth drywall planes with exposed beam textures and pendant light fixtures creates natural boundaries overhead.

Shop The Look:

1. Decorative faux wood ceiling beam kit
2. Modern linear pendant light bronze finish
3. Recessed lighting LED retrofit kit
4. Textured peel and stick backsplash tile
5. Butcher block countertop walnut finish
6. Cushioned anti-fatigue kitchen floor mat
7. Crown molding ceiling demarcation trim
8. Dimmable track lighting system adjustable

DIY Paint Transformation

• Stepped ceiling lower section: Paint in “Agreeable Gray” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7029) to define the kitchen zone with warm undertones that complement natural wood beams and create subtle depth distinction.
• Main ceiling and upper step: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) to maximize light reflection and create the illusion of height while providing clean contrast against the gray stepped section.

Best For: Open concept homes where you want architectural definition between kitchen and living spaces without sacrificing sightlines or natural light flow.

Hanging Pendant Lights as a Visual Boundary

Creating separation between your kitchen and living areas doesn’t require walls when strategic lighting does the work beautifully. Pendant lights suspended over a breakfast bar or island establish an invisible boundary while adding sculptural interest overhead. The interplay of brushed metal fixtures against smooth countertops and textured ceiling beams creates dimensional appeal. This approach lets light itself define your semi-open space.

Shop The Look:

1. Linear pendant light brushed nickel finish
2. Glass globe cluster pendant kitchen island
3. Adjustable height ceiling canopy kit
4. Marble look contact paper countertops
5. Peel and stick subway tile backsplash
6. Woven leather counter height bar stools
7. Anti-fatigue kitchen mat geometric pattern
8. Edison bulb LED vintage style dimmable

DIY Paint Transformation

• Ceiling around pendant installation: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) to maximize light reflection and let your statement pendants command attention against a clean backdrop.
• Kitchen island base: Paint in “Wrought Iron” (Benjamin Moore 2124-10) creating grounding contrast that echoes the dark metal pendant hardware while anchoring your visual boundary below.

Best For: Open floor plan homes where the kitchen flows into living or dining areas and homeowners want definition without sacrificing the spacious, connected feel.

Open Shelving That Doubles as a Room Divider

That awkward division between your kitchen and living space doesn’t require a major renovation to feel intentional. Floating wooden shelves paired with black metal brackets create an airy boundary that maintains sightlines while defining separate zones. The warm wood tones against industrial metal framework adds visual interest without the heaviness of traditional cabinetry.

Shop The Look:

1. Floating wood shelf with black metal brackets
2. Industrial pendant light black metal cage
3. Woven seagrass storage baskets set
4. Marble peel and stick backsplash tiles
5. Butcher block countertop wood finish
6. Black metal bookend dividers decorative
7. Natural jute kitchen runner rug
8. Glass canisters with wood lids set

DIY Paint Transformation

• Wall behind shelving: Paint in “Tricorn Black” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6258) for a dramatic backdrop that makes wood shelves pop and creates intentional contrast.
• Adjacent kitchen walls: Paint in “Natural Linen” (Benjamin Moore 966) providing a warm neutral canvas that highlights the natural wood grain beautifully.

Best For: Open concept homes where you want subtle separation between cooking and living areas without sacrificing natural light or spacious flow.