Design Your Culinary Space: Built-In Kitchen vs. Freestanding Kitchen

The eternal question of whether to choose a built-in or freestanding kitchen frequently arises in our conversations with clients during major renovations. At ReproBarcelona, we understand that the kitchen is now the epicenter of the home, where you spend time with loved ones and friends. But which is the right choice for you?

The Kitchen Renaissance: New Living Room or Reserved Space?

Nowadays, the kitchen has become the new living room, becoming the preferred place for sharing moments. However, some defend the premise of having the kitchen in the kitchen and the living room in the living room, opting to keep these spaces separate. If you're in the process of renovating your kitchen, you're probably debating between a built-in kitchen and a freestanding one.

It's understandable, as we all long for a spectacular, practical kitchen with its own unique style. Before embarking on the renovation, it's crucial to avoid common mistakes, such as following trends alone or neglecting functionality and necessary storage. Let's make sure to maximize natural light and choose quality materials.

Integrated Kitchen: A Space for Coexistence

Built-in kitchens, currently in vogue, appeal due to their sense of space and the conviviality they foster between the living room and kitchen. They are ideal for those who enjoy having company while cooking. Built-in kitchens smooth out the flow of traffic in the home, making them a particularly valuable solution in small homes, creating the illusion of a larger space and attracting light to create a welcoming atmosphere.

If space allows, a center island can be the crown jewel of your open-plan kitchen, offering functionality and style. It's also a great way to supervise little ones while they play in the living room. Make sure you have an efficient extractor hood to keep smoke and odors away.

Independent Kitchen: Privacy and Calm

If you consider the living room the best place to gather with family and friends, a separate kitchen is the perfect choice. This option provides privacy and tranquility during meal preparation, keeping odors and noises within the kitchen. At social events, where appliances can generate noise, a separate kitchen allows for a more relaxed dining experience.

In addition, a separate kitchen offers the aesthetic freedom of having a different style from the living-dining room. However, in smaller homes, this option can be less practical because it limits mobility.