Enclosed Kitchen vs Open Kitchen

As housing units get smaller and property prices continue to rise, many developers are adopting open kitchen designs to maximise space. Some homeowners even choose to convert their enclosed kitchens into open ones. But is this really a good idea?

There are both advantages and disadvantages to open kitchens, and whether it’s right for you depends on your lifestyle and preferences.

One of the main benefits of an open kitchen is the enhanced sense of space. Without walls separating the kitchen from the living area, the unit feels larger, more open, and more practical. This design makes better use of limited space, which is especially valuable in smaller apartments.

Another advantage is the improved connection with other living areas. Open kitchens allow you to interact with family members or guests while preparing meals, fostering closer relationships and a more harmonious home environment. For families with children or elderly members, it’s also easier to keep an eye on them, ensuring their safety while multitasking. 

There’s also the matter of feng shui. Some people who are superstitious believe that open kitchens can negatively affect financial stability. According to traditional beliefs, having the stove visible from the home’s entrance is considered bad luck, as the kitchen is symbolically seen as the family’s source of wealth.

Many believe that open kitchens cannot use gas stoves, but this is a common misconception. According to The Code of Practice for Fire Safety in Buildings 2011, there is no specific regulation that prohibits gas stoves in open kitchens. As long as the stove is installed in a space with a window that can be opened and appropriate fire safety measures are in place, gas stoves are allowed.

If you’re thinking of converting an enclosed kitchen into an open one, it’s important to understand that this involves altering the structural layout of the unit. Removing walls or partitions requires formal approval from the Buildings Department. You’ll need to hire a qualified professional to design the renovation plans and submit them for approval. Only after the Buildings Department grants permission can the renovation work proceed.

For buyers considering a property with a converted kitchen, it’s essential to verify whether the renovation was done legally. Unauthorised modifications can lead to serious consequences. If the Buildings Department discovers the violation, a statutory order may be issued, requiring the kitchen to be restored to its original state at the owner's expense. The owner may also face legal liabilities.

Additionally, buyers should be aware of potential issues with fire insurance. When applying for a mortgage, banks typically require fire insurance for the property. However, insurance companies may refuse coverage if the unit has unauthorised modifications that violate the Buildings Ordinance.

To ensure a smooth purchase, buyers should request specific documents from the seller if the kitchen has been modified. These include the approved renovation plans issued by the Buildings Department, a letter of approval for the renovation, and the completion certificate for the works, along with a fire safety certificate issued by a registered fire service installation contractor.

If the seller cannot provide these documents, it’s wise to proceed with caution. Without proper documentation, buyers risk inheriting legal and financial issues, including the cost of restoring the kitchen or facing penalties from authorities.

While converting to an open kitchen can make a home feel more spacious and modern, it’s crucial to ensure compliance with all legal and safety regulations. If you’re buying a unit with a modified kitchen, verify all documentation to avoid unexpected problems later. When in doubt, consider looking at other properties instead of taking the risk. A legal issue with the kitchen could lead to significant costs, legal troubles, and complications with future property transactions.

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