The open floor plan concept, also known as the great room, has been around since the early 1990’s and is very popular among home builders. Many advantages come with having an open floor plan.
Keeping tabs on kids. Parents can cook and clean while kids can play nearby.
Better entertaining. The person in the kitchen can converse with people in other rooms.
Increase natural light. The removal of interior walls allows more sunlight.
Having an open floor plan can have cons such as decorating and creating a cohesive space. Creating thoughtful separation of each room can be done by adding a few key design elements.
A neutral sofa or sectional that is pulled away from the wall and into the center of the room can help keep the traffic flow open. Additionally, accent chairs in the living room are a great way to add additional seating. Placing a rug and coffee table or ottoman in front of the sofa anchors the living room area and helps define the living room space. View our open floor plan homes.
Keeping the color palette consistent throughout the kitchen, dining room and living room will tie in all three rooms so that they coexist comfortably. Arrange the same type and color of accent pieces throughout the space; for example, using royal blue throw pillows in the living room, royal blue artwork in between the living and dining spaces and adding the same royal blue color in the kitchen will help visually define each space while keeping them cohesive.
Visit our living spaces gallery to view more open floor plan decorating ideas.
