Expert Guide · Binova Studio Short Hills

Designing an Open Plan Kitchen-Living Space in NJ

Designing an open plan kitchen and living space in New Jersey? Binova Studio Short Hills explains how to create seamless Italian open-concept living.

Binova Studio Short Hills is New Jersey's dedicated Italian design studio, serving homeowners across northern and central NJ from our showroom at 565 Millburn Avenue in Short Hills. Our certified designers bring deep expertise to every aspect of luxury home design — and we believe informed clients make better decisions.

This guide is part of our resource library, created to help New Jersey homeowners navigate the complex world of luxury home design, renovation planning, and material selection. We cover Italian design principles, local market insights, and practical guidance drawn from hundreds of completed projects across NJ.

The Binova Studio Difference

What sets Binova Studio apart is our exclusive focus on Italian design and our direct relationships with Italy's finest manufacturers. We don't carry American-made or mass-market products — every piece in our showroom is imported directly from Italy, ensuring authenticity, quality, and designs unavailable anywhere else in New Jersey.

Our projects range from single kitchen renovations to full whole-home transformations. Whether you're planning a focused update or a comprehensive redesign, our team provides the same dedicated service, the same Italian-quality products, and the same commitment to perfection.

"Italian design is not a style. It is a discipline — a commitment to precision, beauty, and longevity in every detail."

— Binova Studio Short Hills

Schedule Your Consultation

Ready to see Italian design in person? Visit our Short Hills showroom or schedule a complimentary design consultation at your home. Our team will assess your space, discuss your vision, and present options tailored to your lifestyle and budget — at no cost, no obligation.

Book a Free ConsultationShowroom Hours & Location

More Design Resources

Kitchen Cost Guide How to Design a Kitchen Collections Guide Kitchen Trends 2026 Architect Partnership Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions

What should I consider when designing an open-plan kitchen in New Jersey?

Open-plan kitchens require careful acoustic planning (sound travels further), ventilation system sizing (odors spread to living areas), and storage strategy (visible clutter impacts the entire living space). Italian kitchen systems from Binova are designed with integrated storage that keeps open-plan spaces looking organized and architectural.

How do I integrate a kitchen island into an open-plan layout?

Kitchen islands in open-plan homes function as room dividers, social hubs, and additional work surfaces. Key considerations: minimum 42-inch clearance on all sides, seating height relative to counter height, integrated storage, and material choices that anchor the kitchen zone within the larger space.

Is a kitchen island necessary in an open-plan NJ home?

An island is not required but is highly valued by buyers in NJ's luxury market — particularly for social entertaining. Binova Studio Short Hills designs islands as architectural elements that complement the full kitchen composition, often extending countertop materials and matching cabinetry profiles.