Open floor plans remain very popular here in Miami, largely due to their functionality and simplicity. First introduced in the mid 1950s, an open floor plan combines multiple spaces – usually the kitchen, dining room, and living room – into one unified area. 

Before open floor plans, most homes were designed with a traditional floor plan, in which enclosed rooms are separated by walls and doors. While the open floor plan emphasizes socialization, the traditional floor plan emphasizes privacy. 

To help you decide which plan best suits your taste, here are the primary pros and cons of open floor plans, along with some innovative solutions for people who like elements of both concepts: 

Pro: Improved Traffic Flow and Socialization

An open floor plan removes barriers that make homes feel cramped and disconnected. With fewer walls to inhibit movement, open floor plans allow people to easily move from one high-traffic space to another. This allows everyone to stay within the same region, making it easier for everyone to communicate. 

Con: Noise Travels

The lack of walls can be a drawback for people who like privacy. For example, if you love to read and your kids love to play Call of Duty at full volume, an open floor plan can be frustrating. 

Pro: Improved Visibility

Open floor plans provide increased visibility throughout the first floor of a home, allowing parents to keep an eye on their children while simultaneously cooking, cleaning, or just relaxing in the living room. 

Con: Clutter Accrues 

When there are large open spaces in a home, it’s just begging to be filled. Without good organization, an open floor plan makes the flotsam and jetsam of life accrue where you might not want it to. 

Pro: More Natural Light

Much like human beings, open floor plans allow light to travel throughout the home more easily as well. This makes the home feel brighter and more spacious, creating a welcoming environment. 

Solutions for the Cons of Open Floor Plans

One of the best ways to combat the issue with privacy is creating defined spaces with area rugs, furniture, and lighting. You can also use waist-high bookshelves and taller cabinets as visual barriers while still maintaining the open, airy feel of the layout. 

As for the noise issue, you might consider adding design items that absorb sound like acoustic panels, rugs, and curtains. These items can dampen the noise and give the space a more peaceful look. 

Lastly, since open floor concepts can appear cluttered very easily, it’s wise to thoughtfully go through your home and make sure there is a place to put purses, backpacks et cetera right where you walk in and to not scrimp on custom closets to maximize their storage efficiency. 

Ready to Create a Plan of Your Own?

Some of our favorite designs balance open floor plans with room to get away so that you can have the best of both worlds.  Whether you want an open floor plan, a traditional plan, or a tasteful mix of both, the Debowsky Design Group is ready to design the perfect space for your lifestyle. 

We can also provide our own solutions for the biggest issues with either plan to ensure you’re 100% comfortable with your design. Give us a call, and we’ll put together a plan that speaks to your individual taste, not someone else’s.