-THE JOURNAL-
Separate kitchens
By M.Chaves
Separate kitchens: back to privacy
In an era dominated by open-plan living, the resurgence of separate kitchens is garnering both attention and acclaim. Homeowners and designers increasingly opt for kitchens that preserve privacy and minimise unwanted cooking odours—without sacrificing light or the illusion of space. Glazed doors stand at the forefront of this revival, offering subtle clarity, practicality, and refined style.
A shift in design philosophy
For years, open-plan kitchens reigned supreme, celebrated for their sociable atmosphere and fluid layout. Yet, many argue that this “always on stage” concept comes at a real cost—noise, cooking smells, clutter and a persistent lack of serenity.
A user on Reddit voiced this frustration:
“So as you can tell I am not a fan of open kitchen concept… most of them… can really change how your whole house smells… an ideal kitchen is self contained…” Reddit
Such sentiments resonate with many who cook frequently or value a more controlled home environment.
Glazed Partitions: Privacy without Darkness
The key to the separate kitchen revival lies in glass—not heavy walls. Glazed partitions, framed or frameless, separate spaces visually and physically, while still welcoming daylight and preserving spatial harmony.
Homes & Gardens notes:
“A glazed partition can split spaces without compromising on light or the feeling of togetherness… it also has the advantage of helping to contain smells in the kitchen area.” Homes and Gardens
Architect Thomas Cox’s use of a reclaimed Georgian shop front as a glazed divider elegantly marries character with functionality.
Balancing Light, Privacy & Odour Control
Modern glass options go beyond mere transparency. Designs now include privacy features such as switchable glass (which toggles between clear and opaque), fluted or reeded textures, gradient obscured panels, and reflective treatments—all allowing light in while obscuring sightlines vision. Glass Doors
Sliding partitions—both transparent and opaque—offer flexibility: open for connection and air. Strategic lighting further refines the effect—using task lighting and dimmers avoids a “fishbowl” glow that can expose interiors at night.
Case Studies & Project Inspirations
1- Architectural Digest – Chicago apartment
Designer Summer Thornton replaced the wall between a cramped galley kitchen and living area with a steel-and-glass divider. The result: a kitchen that retains a separate identity yet benefits from ample light and visual connection. Architectural Digest
2- The London kitchen Company – Fitzrovia project
In a compact Fitzrovia home, bespoke glazed cupboard doors were used to maximise light and create the illusion of expansiveness. These reflective surfaces amplify daylight while feigning openness.The London Kitchen Company
3- Trends in quiet luxury kitchens
In Copenhagen and London, designers embrace “hidden” or “quiet luxury” kitchens—sleek cabinetry, retractable panels, and even entire kitchen zones concealed behind folding wood doors. For example, Christian Bense’s London project uses folding wood panels to disguise glossy teal joinery, so when closed, the wall reads as elegant panelling rather than kitchen space. Financial Times
4- The practical advantages
- Odour control: Sealed partitions reduce the spread of cooking smells—especially when glazed, they also maintain visual connection and light.
- Light continuity: Transparent or translucent doors ensure natural light still permeates into adjacent spaces.
- Visual calm: Glazed separations help avoid the constant display of mess or cooking chaos while keeping the home visually cohesive.
- Flexibility: Sliding or folding glazed doors adapt to different uses—open for interaction, closed for privacy, or half-open for balanced flow.
Kitchen renovation by Casa 110 Interior Design
Voices from Real Homes
Another contributor on Reddit pointed out how older homes with semi-enclosed kitchens manage odours better—despite sharing space acoustically or visually:
“Older homes with separate kitchens… keep the cooking smells mainly in the kitchen.” Reddit
And one enthusiastic commenter celebrated a kitchen renovation:
“Bravo! What an amazing transformation from a small dated kitchen to a kitchen that will be so much easier to cook in and enjoy.” Reddit
Their joy underscores how thoughtful redesign—even in small homes—can enhance both function and delight.
Design Tips for Casa 110 Interior Design Clients
Here are some suggestions to integrate separate kitchen trends into your next projects:
- Choose the right glazing: Opt for fluted or reeded glass for texture and privacy; consider switchable or gradient glass for versatility.
- Select your door system wisely: Sliding, folding, or even pocket doors—each offers unique space and aesthetic advantages.
- Match materials and finishes: For a seamless look, coordinate door frames or cabinetry with adjacent finishes—wood tones or subtle frames work beautifully.
- Think lighting strategically: Use directional task lighting and dimmers to create mood and reduce visual exposure at night.
- Incorporate utility zones: Hidden “dirty kitchens” or appliance “garages” add practicality—a main kitchen remains tidy while prep happens out of sight.Reddit
Final thoughts
The rise of separate kitchens, especially those featuring glazed partitions, marks -from my perspective- a thoughtful evolution in home design. This trend respects the desire for light, openness and sociability, while reclaiming the need for calm, privacy and refined boundaries. It presents a compelling middle ground: kitchen spaces that are both beautifully integrated and covetable for their discretion.
Designers and homeowners alike are rediscovering the joy of partially enclosed kitchens—spaces that feel light and connected, but also protect the calm of the home and the chef. Whether through elegant glazed doors, concealed prep zones, or smart lighting strategies, the separate kitchen is back—and it’s more relevant than ever.
Mauricio C.