An open floor plan has several advantages. It’s easier to socialize in an open floor plan and it feels more spacious, thanks to all the natural light. However, an open floor plan is not without its disadvantages. DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Reno, a trusted home renovator, elaborates more on the pros and cons below.

Advantages

• Spacious interior – The absence of walls, along with the fresh air and natural light flowing freely throughout an open floor plan, gives the illusion of a more spacious interior. 
• More convenient socializing and multitasking – As party host, it can be tricky to keep guests entertained while preparing a meal in a traditional home layout. With an open floor plan, you can be part of the conversation without ever having to leave your kitchen. 
• More efficient floor space – A formal dining room is a great addition to a home with enough floor space but if your home doesn’t have a lot of space, an open floor plan is more efficient. A combined kitchen and dining room in an open floor plan can be used for other purposes. 
• Showcases home interior design – Without any walls blocking your guests’ view, you can showcase your home’s interior design. 

Disadvantages

As mentioned earlier, an open floor plan is not without its disadvantages. 

• An interior that looks too empty – Free-flowing spaces create the illusion of a larger interior but without smaller, more intimate zones divided according to function, your interior may feel like a large box. 
• A messy layout – Adding too many zones with no sense of continuity between them creates a messy and disjointed layout. 

Maximizing an Open Floor Plan

Fortunately, some of the disadvantages of an open floor plan can be minimized with good interior design. To get started, keep these tips in mind:

• Use different shades of one color in a zone. This is to maintain visual cohesion. Remember: when it comes to interior design, consistency is key. If you’re having trouble choosing a color scheme, don’t hesitate to consult a local home remodeler. 
• Avoid disproportionately large furniture pieces and mismatched elements. You should avoid very large furniture pieces that can disrupt the flow of movement and add to visual clutter. The same goes for mismatched elements: they make your interior look smaller. 

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Looking for a “contractor near me”? Give DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Reno a call at (775) 200-9232 or fill out this form. We serve homeowners in Reno, Sparks, Incline Village and the surrounding communities.