Don’t Make These 8 Open-Plan Mistakes!

Last updated on September 5th, 2022

There’s no doubt that open-plan layouts are becoming more and more popular in the interior decor sector. The open plan concept can create a breezy and bright atmosphere, perfect for entertaining guests. The design also makes your house look more spacious than it is.

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But for all its positives, there are some noticeable drawbacks of this design that you must know about. So before you tear down all your walls and start rearranging your furniture, we’ll show you 8 mistakes to avoid when setting up an open-space layout for your abode.

Not Considering Zoning

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One of the biggest mistakes you can make when designing an open-living room is not zoning the space correctly. The living space should be divided into different areas for different activities. For example, there should be an area for watching TV, a place for reading, and a separate one for relaxing. You can make the living room more functional and inviting by zoning the space.

Using Too Many Different Styles

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When you have too many different elements competing for attention, it can make the space feel chaotic and cluttered. Instead, focus on creating a cohesive look by sticking to a few complementary styles. Using too many styles will also make it challenging to define the space, as there would be no clear delineation between the different areas.

Taking a Simplistic Approach to Lighting

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Using natural light is a great way to go if you’re looking to add some warmth and character to your living room without overspending. However, there is a lot more to lighting. Don’t light the entire space with just one type of light. This can result in a dull and lifeless atmosphere. Instead, try to mix different types of lighting together to create a more dynamic look.

Kitchen Doesn’t Suit the Layout

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Kitchens should be placed in a separate area, preferably on the other side of the room. A small kitchen can easily be tucked away behind some furniture if necessary, but large kitchens often take up too much space, blocking views and creating visual barriers between different areas of the home. So if you want a clear distinction between the kitchen and the rest of the property, then be sure to consider this before opting for an open layout.

Oversized Furniture

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When it comes to open living rooms, one of the biggest mistakes people make is opting for furniture that is too large for the space. Using oversized furniture can break the seamless vibe of the space and create difficulty while moving around the house. This is particularly true if you opt for an open plan in a small apartment.

Using Same-Old Design Concepts

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If you want your space to feel inviting and comfortable, you’ll need to experiment with different ideas and ensure that you’re using the right colors, textures, and furnishings. One mistake that many people make is following the same old rules. They try to replicate the look and feel of a traditional living room without trying new things. This can result in a cramped, sterile space that isn’t very inviting.

Not Planning Furniture Placement

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When furniture is poorly placed in an open-concept space, it can block views and create a sparse, barren environment. A classic mistake is putting the couch flush to the wall. While it might be great for traditional living space, it would be disastrous for an open plan. Instead, be creative with the placement of the couch and place it in the middle of the room, or create an ensemble of more petite sofas.

Using Too Many or Too Few Materials

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Using too many different materials can lead to a cluttered and confusing design. Conversely, insufficient materials can result in a sparse and boring design. Hence, it’s essential to strike the right balance. For example, if you’re using sturdy materials in your design like stone or granite, be sure to complement it with something warm like wood.

Conclusion

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Open-plan living space is a great design, provided you don’t make these classic mistakes. Visit Homebliss.in to learn about more design sins concerning this design scheme or find the perfect decor suitable for your home.