Open Concept vs. Closed Spaces
Though architecture and interior design go hand-in-hand, quite often they can even go against each other. A classic example of this is deciding the layout of your home. The main argument over here is whether it should have an open or closed floor plan. While both layouts have unique advantages, they also have their own drawbacks. Ultimately, it’s important to choose a layout that aligns with your lifestyle, family and design preferences. Modern homes usually go in for open floor plans whereas in traditional homes, you will find more closed spaces.
Our B.Sc. in interior designing students are here to tell you exactly which plan is right for you.
What is an Open Concept Floor Plan?
As the name implies, in an open concept floor plan no barriers exist. It is characterised by the absence of walls or partitions. The living room, dining area and kitchen all blend seamlessly to create a spacious yet interconnected environment. It not just promotes a sense of togetherness but also allows a better flow of light.
Pros of Open Concept Layouts
- Better Space Perception: Such layouts are ideal for homes where space is a constraint. It makes the home appear larger and airier.
- More Natural Light: With open layouts, light can flow freely. It’s ideal to brighten up the entire space without relying too much on artificial light.
- Promotes a Sense of Togetherness: There is better social interaction in open concept floor plans. It’s also each to keep an eye on kids.
- Easy Furniture Arrangement: In an open layout, the furniture can be placed the way you want. It’s easy to adapt different purposes or décor styles.
Cons of Open Concept Layouts
- Noisy Environment: Since there are no barriers or wall partitions, sounds can easily travel from one room to the other. It can be distracting if anybody is working in the living room.
- No Privacy: Privacy is compromised for sure in an open layout. There is little to no time for individual activities.
- Higher Heating or Cooling Costs: When an area is large, that much heating or cooling is required to regulate the temperature. This can lead to high electricity bills.
What is a Closed Floor Plan?
A closed floor plan features separate rooms and partitions in the form of doors and walls. In such a plan, each room has a separate function and the spaces are clearly defined. The layout is more structured compared to an open floor plan.
Pros of Closed Floor Plans
- Privacy: Though open spaces are great in bringing families together, privacy is something every individual yearns for. In a closed layout, individuals have more privacy. It also offers an extra layer of soundproofing.
- Noise Isolation: Closed floor plans are excellent at curtailing noise. This means that activities in one room will not hamper the activities of those in the adjacent room. This is especially valuable in a busy household.
- Enhanced Tidiness: In a closed-floor plan, it’s easy to hide the clutter. When life gets busy, the clutter can easily be put away in one of the cupboards. In an open floor plan, it’s hard to ignore and escape the mess.
Cons of Closed Floor Plans
- Limited Natural Light: Since there are walls and partitions, natural light gets blocked leading to darker interiors.
- Space Constraints: Compared to open layouts, smaller rooms may feel cramped. The house may look tinier in a closed floor plan than an open layout.
When you’re deciding which layout is right for you, you can consider your lifestyle. If you love entertaining guests, open spaces are ideal whereas if you need a quiet workspace with every room enjoying a distinct function, it’s better to go in for a closed plan.
Other things you should consider from an architecture point of view is the structure of your home. For example, older homes may be challenging to convert to an open layout. Similarly, in a modern home, if you’re planning a closed layout, you will have to add walls or glass partitions.
The Verdict
You don’t have to limit yourself to one floor plan. Interior designers these days suggest you combine open and closed concepts. It can offer a balanced and versatile environment. For example, you can have an open living and dining area while the bedrooms are ideal to maintain privacy, and walls and partitions to separate the other high-traffic areas of the home. Hiring the right interior designer can help you create a functional and harmonious space.
