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Comparing Kitchen Types: How to Choose the Right One for Your Lifestyle
2025.07.02
When it comes to kitchens, there are two main types: open (facing the living or dining area) and closed (facing a wall). An open kitchen allows you to cook while facing the living or dining space, whereas a closed kitchen typically has you working while facing a wall. If you're unsure which type suits you best, we recommend choosing based on your lifestyle.
In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of both kitchen styles and offer guidance on how to choose the right one for your needs.
Pros and Cons of Open Kitchens
Open kitchens come in two main forms: peninsula kitchens, where one side is attached to the wall, and island kitchens, which are freestanding and separated from walls.
Pros
The biggest advantage of an open kitchen is the ease of communication with your family. With no wall separating the kitchen from the living or dining area, you can enjoy conversations while cooking. For families with young children who need supervision, this layout is especially reassuring. It's also great for hosting guests, as you can interact with them without leaving the kitchen.
Another benefit is that open kitchens often have counters that conceal the sink and work area from view, meaning you don’t have to worry if dishes pile up a bit. These kitchens also tend to be spacious and easy to move around in, with plenty of storage options.
Cons
A common drawback is that cooking smells can easily spread to the living or dining areas. In some open kitchens with lower counters, water or oil splashes may reach the living room floor, potentially causing stains. Oil splashes in particular can pose a burn risk, so families with small children should be cautious.
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Pros and Cons of Closed Kitchens
Closed kitchens—also known as wall-facing or enclosed kitchens—come in two variations: open-style wall kitchens, which are not fully enclosed, and closed kitchens, which are separated from the living space by walls or doors.
Pros
One major advantage of wall-facing kitchens is that they allow for more spacious living and dining areas. Since you face the wall while cooking, it's easier to focus on food prep and cleaning. A wall-mounted ventilation fan helps contain smells and smoke, and the wall also catches water and oil splashes. If you place a dining table behind the kitchen, it makes serving and clearing meals more efficient.
Cons
One downside is that the kitchen can be fully visible from the living or dining area. If dishes or appliances are left out, the space can look cluttered. Depending on the layout, the distance between the refrigerator, sink, and counters may increase, making movement less efficient. Also, enclosed kitchens may not offer much space for extra storage. Since you’re facing the wall, it’s also harder to keep an eye on children or interact with family members in the living room.
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Choosing a Kitchen Based on Your Lifestyle
Both open and closed kitchens have their advantages and disadvantages, so there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your ideal kitchen depends on what you value most. Below are some tips for choosing based on your lifestyle.
Open kitchens are ideal for people who:
・Want to cook while interacting with family members
・Have small children who need supervision
・Live with elderly family members or pets and want to keep an eye on them while cooking
Closed kitchens are ideal for people who:
・Live alone or in small households with fewer dishes
・Prefer to focus on cooking without distractions
・Don’t want smells or smoke to spread to the living area
・Prioritize space efficiency and simple meal serving
Conclusion
Open kitchens are great for enjoying communication with family, while closed kitchens offer practical advantages like better focus and space efficiency.
If you’re not sure which kitchen type suits you best, don’t hesitate to consult with a real estate professional.
At our real estate agency based in Suginami Ward, we offer a wide range of properties that cater to all kinds of kitchen preferences. If you’re interested in viewing a property, feel free to get in touch or schedule a tour.
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