An open floor plan is an architectural design concept in which two or more common areas are joined to form a larger space. It is also characterized by the lack of walls commonly seen in traditional floor plans. Most often, it involves some combination of the living room, dining area and kitchen.
The open floor plan has been the dominant interior design trend in new home construction since the 1990s. But is it a fit for your home? Local home renovator DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Greenville takes a closer look at the pros and cons.
The Good
One of the most notable advantages of an open floor plan is its ability to create a more spacious interior, especially in homes lacking square footage. The absence of walls and doors separating common areas ensures smoother foot traffic. Also, interior spaces that were once without natural light now get adequate illumination from windows in other areas.
In addition to creating an airier vibe, the open floor plan also promotes a sense of togetherness. Family members in different parts of the space won’t have any problem conversing with one another. This setup also makes it easier for parents to keep an eye on their kids.
More importantly, an open floor plan allows you to make the most of your available space. Without walls, reconfiguring furnishings and other interior elements is easy. The layout also allows you to unleash your creativity, especially in terms of establishing visual dividing lines that create a distinction between two parts of a single space. For example, your home remodeler may suggest an island or peninsula to separate the kitchen and dining areas.
The Bad
As with most home floor plans, the open floor plan has its disadvantages. For one, peace and quiet may be harder to come by. Without any walls, it can get noisy in a large space. An open floor plan also means the entire space must be heated or cooled. This can be expensive, especially if your home has high ceilings and large windows on the outer walls—both features that can drain energy.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Greenville is a trusted local home remodeling contractor. Our company name appears at the top of the search results when you look up “remodeling contractor near me” online. Give us a call at (864) 214-0296 or fill out our contact form to schedule a virtual appointment or a visit to our design center. We serve homeowners in Greenville, SC and the nearby communities, including Simpsonville and Fountain Inn.
