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If you scroll down Pinterest in search of design inspiration, or perhaps browse through your favourite interior design magazine, you will certainly notice that open floor plans are on trend and can create a modern interior design vibe too. And while for some, separated rooms have their charm, the open floor concept is popular for a reason. 

Small spaces can benefit greatly from an open floor plan. By combining living room, dining room and kitchen, any space can feel brighter, bigger and more airy. Entertaining with the help of an open floor plan is much easier than in the homes where we have a separate room for each activity. 

Being able to keep an eye on your little ones for example while you get on with your daily activities is definitely a great advantage of the open space concept and it can open up a space and make it feel bigger. 

If you are currently looking for some inspiration, or guidance on how to properly design the open floor concept in your home, continue reading as our team of experts has gathered practical tips.

1. Zone Definition

Defining your zones is the first step to creating a functional open floor plan. We often think that the space can be either open concept or separated by walls. However, there can be a different level of openness or closure within the open floor concept.

Zones such as the kitchen, dining room and living room can be defined by introducing partitions, rugs, various floor levels, different floor finishes, wall colours or even furniture. For example, a central kitchen island can visually divide kitchen from the rest of the open floor concept.

2. Design Fluidity

Although it may seem obvious, your space will benefit from keeping the same styling principles in the different zones throughout the open floor plan. Sticking to the same style will make your space coherent, elegant and balanced. Flooring and lighting fixtures (especially recessed ones) should be consistent in all zones. Be careful not to fill the space too much though as there needs to be enough space for people to flow and move about. 

3. Importance of Colours

We have previously marked the importance of zone definition and visual separation in the open floor concept. However, in spite of zoning, it is important to envision your space as a whole, when designing it. 

The easiest way to keep your space coherent and in balance is to select a colour palette and stick to it. For example you could choose neutral colours (shades of grey, white, black, blue, etc.) and if you wanted a pop of colour, introduce them in the forms of accents – e.g. through artworks, flower pots, cushions, or throw in some pillows and blankets. These bolder colours will certainly elevate the design and will create visual points of interest throughout the space.

4. Furniture, Accessories and Lighting

Like in any other indoor space, good lighting is crucial for the comfort of the users. Layer the light, introduce task, ambient and accent lighting. Install individually controlled lighting circuits for different atmospheres and moods.

Plan enough storage options to support each individual zone within the open floor concept. If the space is large enough we advise, open shelves, as they can act as a separator of zones while giving you space for storage. Your space will still be airy and the natural light will not be blocked.

When we talk about furniture, bear in mind that open floor spaces can be arranged and rearranged very quickly, and that’s why we love them so much. Be creative and don’t worry about making a potential design mistake. However, if you want to make sure that you have a good furniture layout and overall design from the start, contact our team at Think Contemporary, we have lots of packages to choose from that can help you develop a concept design for your space.

Plants and other greenery are great elements to incorporate in your open floor plan. They will make any space more comfortable and cosy-tall plants can also act as a space divider, while beautifying your space at the same time.

5. Add Soft Finishing For Acoustics

Given that there are less physical barriers and obstacles in the space, open floor concept zones can be echoey. To reduce the echo effect and create, warm, pleasant and inviting spaces, use soft materials and finishes.

Interesting rugs, curtains, sitting furniture finishes (sofas, arm chairs, etc.), throw pillows and blankets are great way to personalise your space and reduce the amount of echo. Wool, cotton, velvet are great sound absorbing materials to have in mind.

If you have an upcoming project and would like to work together, please don’t hesitate to get in touch and we would love to chat through it together.

Did you know? The perfect time to engage an interior architect & designer is at the start of any project. We provide a full range of design services from concept through to completion in our Interior Design studio in Dublin.

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