Open floor concepts have been all the rage for the last few years. So much so, that according to Houzz, over 600,000 images have been uploaded to their website tagged with “Open Floor Concept”. That is a lot of homes! But why did it take rise recently and is it a fad that will give you buyer’s remorse in the future? Find out here!
What Is An Open Floor Concept?
An open-plan space has no or few dividing walls between areas. Generally, this refers to the main living areas of the home — the kitchen, living room and dining room — which creates an open, flowing layout with fewer traditional individual rooms in favor of a communal living space. What is it that draws us to this style of living? It has to do with the way families are living these days. There has been a marked downturn in the popularity of formal dining, and this has tied in with the rise of open-plan living. Easy access to food, television and interaction for on-the-go families means keeping all these area within eyesight makes the day more efficient. The growth of tiny house living has also generated the demand for open-plan living as this increases the feeling of space in smaller homes.
Is it Here to Stay? Yes and No
In smaller homes, it is likely that open floor plans will be here to stay for quite some time. It is the most efficient use of space for smaller areas and makes the smaller spaces more aesthetically pleasing. But in larger homes, this can be contested. Open floor plans can be efficient, but provide little privacy for those who wish to have formal areas or wish to not use higher end furniture on a normal basis. Many are now beginning to integrate formal living/sitting areas back into designs that are off entrances. These can often be closed off to not invite visitors and children to make messes. Although family and kitchen areas are still popular to have the open concept, formal dining rooms are making a comeback thanks to the integration of eat-in areas into the kitchen design. Barstools and nooks are being added, with formal dining rooms off of the kitchen for food efficiency.
Mix Both Designs
It is quite okay to want open spaces for the daily use areas. But sitting areas, formal dining rooms and “adult rooms” for cocktails and relaxation should be considered with wall structures or at least some type of half wall to create a distinguishable area. Contact MH Akers today to learn how you can integrate both feels into your custom home or renovation!