Open plan design - the living space

Jun 13, 2009
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A real challenge...
by: Charlotte

Hello Kaye

An open plan living area can be quite a challenge... as it seems you have discovered! It can be difficult to get the feeling of one unified room, but have different task areas within it.

If you are struggling to get that ideal 'just right' combination between the two, it may be worth considering whether to go for one big unified space that encompasses all the task 'functions' or (if space allows) to consider partitioning off the different task areas with screening, bookcases, furniture etc to create more clearly defined areas. One of these options may work better for your personal needs and space.

Maybe you could combine some of the task areas into one. Do they all need to be separate areas, or can you have a quiet area (reading, puzzles etc)? and then a communal area (TV, music, chatting) and a 'need-a-table' space (office, puzzles, eating, crafts etc)?

You could look into 'multi-functional' furniture - by this I mean furniture that can fold away when you don't need it, or be a storage chest, but then fold out into a table, etc.

Check out that you have lighting organized for each specific task you want to perform, and it is appropriately sited for that task. But also make sure that you have some overall lighting, that lights up the whole room (this may be more than one light, maybe ceiling light, plus wall-lights) so that the room can become one again, when necessary.

Perhaps the most important styling tip to keep your unified space is to also go for a single color scheme and style/theme throughout the space, including furniture and flooring, where possible. Treat it as a whole when decorating.

Specific spaces may be defined within this single scheme by the use of accessories in complementary colors, or perhaps a single rug to signify a 'cosy' area, but you needn't overuse this idea to keep all your areas separate.

The 'separation' of the different task areas should come more from the natural use and function of the area, than in the difference of decorating color or style.

You may find it easier to plan out your room if you draw a simple plan on paper first, as this can make it easier to look objectively at your home, and really consider exactly what you need, and where it should go... Click here for tips on drawing a layout plan

Also take a look at these ideas for open plan living

I hope some of these ideas have helped the way you think about your open plan space.

Good luck with your room makeover.

Best wishes

Charlotte :o)

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Jun 13, 2009
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Submitted by: Charlotte

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Hello Kaye An open plan living area can be quite a challenge... as it seems you have discovered! It can be difficult to get the feeling of one unified room, but have different task areas within it. If you are struggling to get that ideal 'just right' combination between the two, it may be worth considering whether to go for one big unified space that encompasses all the task 'functions' or (if space allows) to consider partitioning off the different task areas with screening, bookcases, furniture etc to create more clearly defined areas. One of these options may work better for your personal needs and space. Maybe you could combine some of the task areas into one. Do they all need to be separate areas, or can you have a quiet area (reading, puzzles etc)? and then a communal area (TV, music, chatting) and a 'need-a-table' space (office, puzzles, eating, crafts etc)? You could look into 'multi-functional' furniture - by this I mean furniture that can fold away when you don't need it, or be a storage chest, but then fold out into a table, etc. Check out that you have lighting organized for each specific task you want to perform, and it is appropriately sited for that task. But also make sure that you have some overall lighting, that lights up the whole room (this may be more than one light, maybe ceiling light, plus wall-lights) so that the room can become one again, when necessary. Perhaps the most important styling tip to keep your unified space is to also go for a single color scheme and style/theme throughout the space, including furniture and flooring, where possible. Treat it as a whole when decorating. Specific spaces may be defined within this single scheme by the use of accessories in complementary colors, or perhaps a single rug to signify a 'cosy' area, but you needn't overuse this idea to keep all your areas separate. The 'separation' of the different task areas should come more from the natural use and function of the area, than in the difference of decorating color or style. You may find it easier to plan out your room if you draw a simple plan on paper first, as this can make it easier to look objectively at your home, and really consider exactly what you need, and where it should go... <a href="http://www.interior-design-it-yourself.com/layout.html">Click here for tips on drawing a layout plan</a> Also take a look at these <a href="http://www.interior-design-it-yourself.com/interior_designs_living_room.html">ideas for open plan living</a> I hope some of these ideas have helped the way you think about your open plan space. Good luck with your room makeover. Best wishes Charlotte :o)

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Open plan design - the living space

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