Design trends are changing and the open-plan layouts are showing off multi-purpose areas, such as kitchens and dining rooms and living rooms that seamlessly flow into one another. While the lack of walls allows your family to be closer while completing different tasks, it is easy to get lost in the amount of space or to feel the need to section areas off. The key is continuity between the spaces, and here’s some tips on how.
- Color – Whether “warm” or “cool,” keep the color consistent on all the walls. You can use varying shades of the same color to spruce it up, but this will give you a base sense of continuity throughout the large area. Paint architectural elements such as pilasters, soffits and chair rails variations of the main color or add an accent color that flows throughout the space. Large furnishings such as sofas and area rugs are most successful when they are color-cousins of the walls, like three shades of blue.
- Flooring – Don’t break up the floor by using different types and colors. This will chop the flow of the space and detract from the large, open space. Rugs can then be layered on top to soften the look and add warmth. The are a great, versitile tool to separate the rooms without breaking the flow. No matter what kind you choose, they add personality, color, texture and style.
- Furniture – While it’s important to keep the openness of the space, you need to be able to live in it. This means creating nesting areas for separation. Separate, but equally useful and good-looking ‘zones’ can be established with good furniture placement. Bring furniture off the walls and arrange it for a specific purpose, such as conversation, reading, or dining. Look for ways to bridge these nesting areas, such as a some beautiful short shelves or placing a table behind the couch.
- Window Treatments – Regardless of what type of window treatments you use, drapes, blinds, shutters or any combination, make sure they are consistent throughout the space. You don’t have to limit them to the windows though. Consider using them as a beautiful accent to the wall color and placing them in unusual places to add softness where needed. Think about puddling gorgeous silk fabric in an entry hall between the front door and the staircase for an element of drama and luxury.
- Accessorize – Pillows and art can be used to enhance the space by complimenting or contrasting with an existing color and adding texture for true dynamics. Bring art into a space by resting it on ledges, tabletops, even the floor as well as the walls.
Open floor plans need unity. Don’t chop them up with too much color or too many materials. A good rule of thumb is that you want to see clearly from horizon to horizon. For more tips and tricks, call Helen today at 847.967.0022 or email [email protected].