Open-plan living has taken over modern home design — and for good reason. Knocking down walls creates a brighter, more connected space where cooking, relaxing, and entertaining can all happen without barriers. But what many homeowners don’t realise until it’s too late is just how important proper ventilation is in these open layouts.
Without smart ventilation, all those open lines of sight and seamless transitions come at a price: odours, moisture, and airborne grease can drift far beyond the kitchen. That fresh, airy feeling you wanted? It can quickly turn into a stale haze if you’re not careful.
Why Open-Plan Kitchens Need Special Attention
In a traditional, closed-off kitchen, steam and smells are mostly contained — even if ventilation isn’t perfect. But in open-plan homes, those same issues don’t just stay in the kitchen. Cooking a spicy curry or searing steak? Suddenly your sofa, curtains, and even your clothes might be catching the fallout.
This is where high-performance rangehoods become non-negotiable. Not only do they keep the air cleaner, but they also protect your fixtures and furnishings from grease build-up over time. Style-conscious homeowners often opt for appliances that match the aesthetics of the space. That’s where Smeg rangehoods offer a compelling solution — combining sleek, statement-worthy design with powerful extraction that suits open-plan environments beautifully.
The Hidden Impact of Poor Ventilation
If your kitchen setup doesn’t have adequate extraction, the signs start small: a lingering scent here, a bit of extra wiping there. But over time, you’ll notice more:
- Buildup on walls, cabinetry, and splashbacks
- Stubborn odours that don’t clear out
- Moisture leading to mould in unexpected places
- Increased strain on your heating/cooling system
- Degradation of indoor air quality, especially for kids or pets
In short, it’s not just about convenience — it’s about health, comfort, and long-term upkeep.
What to Look for in a Rangehood
A great rangehood should do more than just “meet code.” If you’re living with an open-plan layout, look for features like:
- High extraction rate (measured in m³/hr) to suit larger spaces
- Quiet operation — especially important in shared living/dining areas
- Easy-to-clean filters to reduce maintenance hassles
- Lighting that adds ambience and utility
- A design that matches or complements your kitchen aesthetic
Wall-mounted, island, and concealed options are all worth considering, depending on how your space is laid out.
Seamless Design, Serious Performance
Good ventilation doesn’t have to ruin your design vision. In fact, the right appliance can elevate it. Rangehoods today are far more than metal boxes above the cooktop. With options in black glass, brushed steel, or bold colour finishes, they can serve as a genuine focal point — or discreetly blend in.
That’s especially important in homes where the kitchen shares space with the living or dining area. You want every element to feel intentional, not like an afterthought.
Investing in the Right Setup
It’s tempting to leave ventilation as a last-minute decision in your build or renovation. But a poor choice here can create a ripple effect of issues later. If your space is already built, it may be worth upgrading your current unit — especially if it’s dated, loud, or ineffective.
Ask your installer or designer for advice tailored to your space. They’ll be able to help you choose a unit that matches your room’s airflow requirements and ceiling height. And if you’re investing in other premium kitchen fixtures, it only makes sense to choose a rangehood that delivers on both looks and performance.
