A COMPLETE GUIDE TO STYLING YOUR OPEN PLAN HOME
Open plan living means living without boundaries and enjoying a more carefree existence. It’s a style synonymous with modern living and is a design element you’ll see in new build homes. The layout, characterised by large, open spaces and minimal interior walls, offers flexibility and a generous sense of spaciousness that can be genuinely exciting. It can, however, also pose a challenge when it comes to creating distinct areas within the space. Today, we’ll explore several strategies to help you effectively style your open plan home, ensuring each area has its own unique identity while maintaining a cohesive overall look.
Zoning with Furniture and Rugs
Without traditional walls to carve out defined areas, you’re going to want to look at more subtle ways of dividing up space. One of the most effective ways is through strategic placement of furniture and rugs to delineate spaces while also adding subtle touches of texture and warmth.
Start by using large, cosy rugs to anchor the living room’s seating area. Place your sofa, chairs, and coffee table on the rug to create a clear boundary for this space. In the dining area, opt for a different rug that visually separates it from the living space. Positioning the dining table and chairs on this rug helps define the dining zone. In the living room, particularly, positioning your sofa with its back to the dining area can act as a natural divider and create a visual barrier without obstructing the flow of the open space.
Cohesive Colour Scheme with Accent Walls
A cohesive colour scheme can tie your living and dining areas together while accent walls add visual interest and separation. Start by choosing a base colour palette that will flow throughout the entire space and try to choose pieces of furniture that accentuate and work with the scheme.
To add depth and character, try painting one wall in the living area and another in the dining area in a bold, contrasting colour or use wallpaper to create focal points. This technique helps define each zone within the open plan. Enhance the theme by incorporating artwork and accessories that feature the accent colour, seamlessly blending the areas together while maintaining their distinctiveness.
Mixed Lighting Layers
Last but not least, lighting plays a crucial role in making an open-plan space adaptable for different uses and moods. Employing a mix of lighting types ensures that each area is well-lit and inviting, while also using different shades, colours, and lighting fixtures to reference different areas of the home.
In the living room, ambient lighting such as a central ceiling light or recessed lighting can provide general illumination. Complement this with “task lighting,” like floor lamps or table lamps, to create a more intimate atmosphere. In the dining area, meanwhile, a statement chandelier or pendant light above the table could serve as a focal point and make the dining room really feel like a dining room.
