We lived in Arizona for 30 years and every house we lived in there had an open-space plan. In Arizona it was lovely; lots of light and a spacious feeling. When we retired to East Tennessee, a more traditional sort of home seemed right for the area so the house we built here has a pretty enclosed kitchen. What I have found, though, is that everyone comes to the kitchen when we have family gatherings. I do like it though and I know exactly what you mean about those quiet times. My big kitchen window looks out over the mountains and I revel in the time I spend, all to myself, doing little chores.