Reveal or hide: the identity of the concealed kitchen and the open kitchen

The concealed, or hideaway, kitchen is ideal for those who dream of a clean, distraction-free environment. This kitchen style is designed to hide not only the work surfaces but also the appliances, which disappear behind sliding or hinged doors, giving the space a sense of order and harmony.

A concealed kitchen integrates naturally into modern interiors, where spaces flow freely and blend together—as in open-plan layouts where the kitchen and living room coexist. In such settings, a concealed kitchen maintains a cohesive visual experience without interrupting the overall perception of the area. Each element remains hidden and is revealed only when needed, protecting surfaces from wear and dust accumulation and ensuring the kitchen stays organised. The ease of concealing preparation areas behind sliding panels makes this design highly functional for those who value order and simplicity.

A distinctive feature of the retractable kitchen is its ability to make appliances like the oven, dishwasher, and sink completely disappear. These elements blend seamlessly with the rest of the furniture through perfectly coordinated panels, creating a visual continuum. The result is a harmonious space that becomes a seamless canvas, where every detail contributes to a unified aesthetic vision.

In contrast to concealed kitchens, the open kitchen is a celebration of design, where every detail, object, and appliance takes centre stage. Here, the kitchen transcends its functional role, becoming a captivating focal point that draws attention and invites conviviality.

Ideal for those who love to socialise and share cherished moments, the open kitchen welcomes family and friends into a space that serves as a stage for interactions. Every action—from preparing meals to sharing conversations—becomes an opportunity for connection in an environment that fosters togetherness and brings people into the daily joy of cooking. The open kitchen is more than a place; it’s an experience that embraces and involves, creating a warm, dynamic atmosphere where social connection finds its most natural expression.

The open kitchen also showcases the unique and authentic style of its owners. Each piece of furniture and carefully chosen object tells a story, adding vibrancy to the space. The owner’s personality transforms the kitchen into a living extension of their essence, where even touches of disorder contribute character and individuality.

In this layout, appliances are displayed proudly, turning functional items into design elements. Each appliance is selected not just for its utility but also for its visual appeal, harmonising functionality and beauty to create an inspiring environment.

The contrast between the open and concealed kitchen reflects two distinct philosophies—revealing versus hiding—where one enhances the kitchen as a shared space, and the other interprets it as a purely functional area. This approach extends to the design of modern appliances as well. On one side, we see tools designed to blend subtly into the culinary environment, nearly disappearing from view. On the other, there are bold options, like SuperOven, which boast a strong, recognisable aesthetic with striking lines, impactful finishes, and a presence that makes the appliance a true style statement. Additionally, the variety of finishes and installation options — flush, cantilevered, or freestanding — allows for a high degree of customisation, empowering individuals to create spaces that reflect their personal style and vision.

In essence, this comparison gives rise to two distinct lifestyles and design philosophies, where appliance design plays a key role in shaping the daily kitchen experience: visible, bold, and engaging in an open kitchen; refined and subtle in a concealed one.

Discover the versatility of Model 1 as it fits seamlessly into any kitchen design.

By comparing the benefits of these two designs, a broader question emerges: what role does the kitchen play in our lives today? Once solely dedicated to food preparation, the kitchen has evolved alongside societal changes and shifting habits. It has become more than the heart of the home; it is a mirror of our aspirations, a personal haven that reflects who we are. In a fast-paced world, having the option to either conceal the everyday behind sophisticated panels or proudly display our creativity becomes an act of personal expression and freedom.