Homes with open floor plans combine the kitchen and adjacent living areas into a single, large gathering space where family members and guests can interact during the entire course of a visit, not just during the sit-down meal. The result is a home that encourages a more modern relationship between the kitchen, traditionally considered a working zone, and formal spaces such as the living room and dining room. In fact, open floor plans elevate a well-trimmed kitchen to the functional center of the home, featuring custom cabinetry, fine appliances, and attractive lighting and surfaces. In high-end homes, fireplaces and integrated electronics further showcase the kitchen as a focal point of design.