Are Open Floor Plans Out?
Explore the Pros and Cons of This Style
In 2021, we reported that being home during the pandemic soured some people’s love for open floor plans. With the whole family sharing one space and using it in multiple ways simultaneously, some longed for ways to divide their homes and find privacy — especially during important Zoom calls!
So, now that we’re halfway through 2022 with things mostly back to “normal” (whatever that is!), we want to explore whether open floor plans have gone out of style.
Advantages of Open Floor Plans
First, despite the recent trend against open floor plans, they remain a popular choice. Most of our clients still desire open floor plans for their new homes and remodels. We continue to knock down walls to create larger spaces.
People enjoy open floor plans because of these advantages:
Improved light. Open floor plans can have more light without walls separating the rooms and blocking light, especially natural light from windows.
Increased visibility. If you have a child or pet you’d like to keep an eye on, open floor plans help you do that. For example, you can supervise the living room while cooking dinner if a wall isn’t separating the two areas.
More togetherness. Open floor plans encourage people to spend time together while doing different things.
Easier entertaining. The flow of an open floor plan is perfect for having guests so that everyone can see each other and feel a part of what is happening.
Some Disadvantages
However, open floor plans do have some disadvantages that you should consider when you are building or remodeling your home:
Less privacy. With fewer walls to hide behind, open floor plans make it harder to get away.
Higher energy costs. Open floor plans cost more to heat and cool, especially if the ceilings are high or vaulted.
More clutter. Sometimes, when you remove walls, you also remove storage spaces. If your home tends towards chaos, your open space can become a drop zone, and everyone will be able to see the mess.
Emphasized design choices. All your design choices for this space need to match and flow. Otherwise, the area will not look cohesive and appealing.
Our Advice
If you like open floor plans, we recommend continuing to enjoy them despite what some experts say. However, be mindful of the disadvantages so you can make the most of your space. Here are some ideas:
Arrange for privacy. Organize furniture and rugs into different zones, and use temporary walls or screens to divide areas. Look in magazines and on the internet for ideas. Also, our designers can help.
Be intentional about your design choices. Make sure everything in your space goes together well. Again, our designers can help!
Make your home as energy-efficient as possible. You might install a new heating and air system, more insulation, or more efficient windows and doors.
Clean up clutter. Check out the de-clutter challenge we had at the beginning of this year! Also, consider using other spaces, such as a spare guest room for messier projects, to keep your open areas cleaner. And please stop by our design center for storage and organization ideas.
LET US HELP YOU MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SPACE! JUST CONTACT US OR STOP BY OUR HOMESOURCE DESIGN CENTER TO VIEW OUR EXTENSIVE HOME PRODUCTS OR TALK TO AN EXPERT HOME DESIGNER!
Let us help you make the most of your space!