Open floor plans are becoming increasingly popular, particularly in modern homes. Although this layout is undeniably appealing, some seclusion is sometimes welcome. While it’s not always easy to determine the layout that’s right for you, here are some solutions from Alair Homes North Vancouver that can help you tailor your home’s open and closed spaces.
When the classical design you love doesn’t work for your family
While old houses are famed for their original and outstanding details, they tend to have smaller, closed-off partitions that are quite the opposite of today’s open floor plan models. If you’re accustomed to the flow of a newer home, getting used to the layout of an older house might prove difficult even if you adore it.
Instead of knocking out walls, try a barn door. Though tearing out connecting walls is how many homeowners create open spaces, you can try a more modest approach. For instance, you can install barn doors in place of one or two interior doorways. Sliding doors can provide a little bit more openness, especially if the opening is wide.
If you want to hide your kitchen mess
When you finish cooking, having a pile of dirty pots and pans is common. If this mess is in plain sight, it might detract you from enjoying a lovely dinner, particularly if you have company over.
A semi-open floor plan might be the best solution. In such cases, your separation needs to hide the kitchen mess without isolating the cook. For instance, you can use a pass-through counter to separate the cooking and sitting areas gently.
When you want more privacy
Open floor plans allow natural light to stream through the house, which creates a welcoming atmosphere. Unfortunately, this open vibe is sometimes annoying. For example, when you need some peace but there’s someone watching TV at full volume.
A semi-open space plan with sliding interior doors might be the right solution. To create a buffer or a more intimate seating area, you can install sliding barn doors or pocket doors between your kitchen and the other rooms. Once complete, closing off a section provides some quiet.
When you want a clear line of sight
Lack of a clear line of sight often means you can’t see what the little one is doing, making it necessary to stay in the same room. As a result, the two of you will have less freedom of movement. A clear line of sight often means a whole lot of difference when it comes to living with young ones.
Wider openings might be the right solution. Aside from not being the only solution when you need a clear line of sight, an entirely open layout might not be practical for old houses that feature many small rooms. In addition to allowing better flow, wide the openings can provide a much clearer line of sight. You should, therefore, go with a double-width opening in place of a small doorway.
When you have a craving for cozy little rooms
Even if you love the open floor plan, craving the comfort offered by small set-apart rooms is only natural, especially in winter when open spaces can feel drafty and dreary.
Creating cozy corners might be the right solution. Even in spacious rooms, the corners will often have an enclosed feel. You can take advantage of this and improve the level of comfort by including some cozy-feeling furniture. You’ll appreciate your corner even more if you place a heater nearby.