The open kitchen layout is one that eliminates walls and doors to blend the kitchen with the rest of the common areas like living and dining spaces.

Elimination of barriers such as walls enables flow of natural and artificial wind, light through the common areas. With an open kitchen plan, one can interact and stay in contact with the guests while preparing a meal.  

This layout of kitchens are best suited for contemporary modern homes. Due to the lack of walls, the spaces are larger hence giving smaller homes a more spacious illusion.