I've seen some open floorplan designs where the kitchen was still the focal point, but all the functional areas could be hidden, usually by some large sliding f

I've seen some open floorplan designs where the kitchen was still the focal point, but all the functional areas could be hidden, usually by some large sliding feature. This, I think, is the best of both worlds. You can cook and eat in the open kitchen then pile everything in the sink and slide it shut till you're ready to deal with it later.