Open plan living space ideas

22 open-plan living room ideas to create a seamless space

These days you're more likely to find free flowing living spaces than more smaller, closed off rooms. Open-plan living room ideas are a hallmark of contemporary homes, thanks to their ability to cater to nearly any occasion.

Our homes need to be more fluid than ever before, and your choice of living room ideas play a big part in this. After all, you need to create a space that works for the whole family in a range of different situations.

'We know by now that our homes need to be ready to transform into whatever we need, be that a home gym, classroom or office – often with just a moment’s notice,' says Rebecca Snowden, interior style advisor, Furniture And Choice . 'Creating these dedicated spaces in our home doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style.'

'Open-plan spaces are increasingly popular and are great for entertaining, but can sometimes feel sparse or empty,' continues Martin Waller, Founder, Andrew Martin . 'Use contrasting colours to demarcate distinct spaces and inject personality into different areas of the room. Wallpaper can also be used in certain areas of the space to create a distinct zone.

'Use statement lighting to create different zones, that each have a purpose. Open furniture, such as cabinets, bookcases, or shelving can be used to create different zones, without making the space feel closed in. Alternatively, a folding screen can provide privacy, something that is often lacking in open plan living.'

Open-plan living room ideas

'Whether it’s a big project like adding some sliding doors or a divider wall, or simply laying out your furniture in an intelligent way,' says Rebecca from Furniture and Choice, 'there are plenty of ways to create self-contained spaces within open-plan living room ideas in a way that works for you.'

1. Create cohesion through colour palettes

(Image credit: Future PLC/Mark C. O'Flaherty)

'It is easy for the different areas to get lost and feel disjointed if the design is not cohesive,' notes Rob Ellis, Head of Design, dwell . 'So it important to zone the different areas, whilst keeping a common colour palette throughout.'

'Start by deciding how you will use the rooms, for example a distinctive dining space for friends and family, paired with a relaxing living room. To keep a consistent feel throughout, choose similar colours and textures across the two rooms.'

'If your scheme is blue, avoid it looking one dimensional by including different tones of blue to create layers and depth. This could be a soft, dusty blue rug under the dining table paired with a statement dark blue velvet sofa.'

This is especially useful in tandem with small living room ideas, as too many colours and textures can be overwhelming.

2. Zone with an oversized rug

(Image credit: Interior Fox/Daniel Villarreal)

You can visually zone spaces without any building work or big projects. A large, oversized rug goes a long way with open-plan living room ideas.

Choose an option which can comfortably fit your sofa, armchairs and coffee table. This 'island' created by the rug becomes a room in its own right, differentiating it from the dining or kitchen areas in the same space.

For modern living room ideas, choose a rug with pattens that reflect the graphic shapes and lines used elsewhere in the area.

3. Use the same flooring throughout

(Image credit: Future PLC/Georgia Burns)

'In today’s modern home, people are choosing open-plan layouts to maximise the feeling of space and light,' says Simon Myatt, Brand Ambassador, Havwoods . 'This remains a popular trend in the living areas, where flooring is used to transition seamlessly from one room into the next, without interruption from door bars or floor strips.'

'Alternatively, use living room flooring ideas to zone. In this way, you can create zoned areas, perhaps by layering your floorboards in alternate patterns, or choosing slightly different tones or textures.'

4. Make it work for every function

(Image credit: Future PLC/Simon Whitmore)

'An open-plan living area is often a multifunctional space that is home to entertaining, relaxing and dining,' reminds Rob from dwell. And while that it is on the whole a positive thing, it can be tricky to fully visually close off one function to focus on another. For example, tucking away the family/entertainment side of things when you want a relaxed, conservational space, or a WFH location.

Learning how to hide a TV is a great example of the ways you can keep all these elements in one space, but gloss over them when not in use.

5. Use steps for a subtle division of space

(Image credit: Future PLC/Robert Sanderson)

Not all home layouts are created equal. If you don't have a large, flat space to explore open-plan living room ideas, then think outside the box. A few steps leading to the dining or kitchen space will allow the spaces to stay open and connected, even if on slightly different levels.

This can provide a welcome small feeling of separation for family living room ideas, so you can easily keep an eye on the kids while still feeling as though you each have your own space.

Keep the colour palettes the same across the areas to really hone the link between the spaces.

(Image credit: Future PLC/James Balston)

'When designing an open-plan living room, think about the scheme as a whole,' advises Ann Marie Cousins, Founder, AMC Design . 'The different spaces need definition but there needs to be a thread that ties it all together.'

'So, if you have a navy sofa in your open-plan sitting room with richly-patterned scatter cushions with orange, teal and green, you might then opt for a leather upholstered bar stool at navy kitchen island ideas to merge the two together.'

'By bringing colour from one space to the other with pattern and texture, but allowing for differentiation, the spaces will tie together but not match.'

7. Use paint to define different zones

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Jo Henderson)

Open-plan living room ideas needn't be devoid of different personalities for different purposes. Opening up a living room and dining area is great to create a more generous space, ideal for busy family life. But it does blur the lines when it comes to lifestyle choices.

Simple paint ideas on architectural details, such as widened doorframes and arches, helps to gently signify different zones within the open space.

Creating zones within the larger space helps to give a sense of purpose for a living room end to that of a dining area or a kids playroom. This unimposing way of dividing the living space doesn't defeat the object of making it open – it merely gives more structure to how you use the space.

8. Continue a style throughout

(Image credit: Future PLC)

Create a seamless flow from one living area into the next by way of a considered decorating scheme throughout.

'Keeping a cohesive scheme will allow the style of the space to flow seamlessly from room to room,' explains Juliette Thomas, Founder & Director, Juliettes Interiors.

'Whether that’s using the same paint colour across your living room wall decor or incorporating the same textures across your soft furnishings, from curtains to scatter cushions, this will tie everything in together. '

9. Cheat it with broken plan

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Veronica Rodriguez)

Broken plan is the newer take on open-plan living room ideas. All the benefits of the latter, but allows you extra flexibility.

Replacing traditional doors with a unique glass door frame helps the open layout onto the space beyond. A feat in interior design, using glass in place of hard materials makes the walls disappear - while allowing you to shut off the living room for more intimate use, as and when some 'me time' is needed.

10. Leave a partition wall to benefit both areas

(Image credit: Future PLC/Rachael Smith)

While you may desire the feeling of openness, you might not want to create one vast space that is devoid of structure. If this is the case consider leaving a section of wall still in place, to divide one end of the room to the other.

Having an element of division allows you to retain a living room layout – not losing a wall to place furniture against or hang wall art for instance. A smart space could use the diving wall to situate open living room fireplace ideas to ensure both areas either side of the wall benefit.

11. Add personality with block painted zones

(Image credit: Dulux)

While lounging, eating and working may all take place in one large open-plan area, it doesn't mean you can't zone each area with a different colour. Signify a change of purpose with a splash of colour, with a thoughtful living room paint idea to transform with accent walls.

12. Utilise a neutral scheme

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Rowland Roques O'Neil)

Create an effortlessly sophisticated and inviting open-plan lounge by choosing neutral living room ideas, using the same paint shade and flooring throughout.

This soft approach helps to make the space feel more grounded, and adaptable for all uses. Echo tonal accent pieces, such as lilac-grey and charcoal, to add soft colour contrasts without making the space feel overwhelmed.

13. Choose a sliding door

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Rachael Smith)

'Sliding doors work well for larger spaces and can really make a difference in a room' explains Rebecca from Furniture and Choice. 'While they require more work to incorporate into a space, including sliding doors into your interior design will enable you to separate an open space with style and versatility.'

'As an example, incorporating a sliding door into your kitchen/dining/living area will provide you with the flexibility to close off one space when you need to. Perhaps for home working, but then seamlessly transform it back into a vibrant space for dining and entertaining when needed.'

14. Create distinct areas with different textures

(Image credit: Future PLC/Polly Eltes)

Instead of zoning with paint colours or furniture, you can go a long way by playing with materials. Using different textures can be used to create distinct divides in open-plan living room ideas, separating off the dining or cooking areas.

You might want to overload the former with softer, plush items to hone the relaxed element of the area, while kitchen ideas or dining spaces may be filled with harder surfaces and materials.

15. Use partitions to display items to reflect the zones

(Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles)

When planning how to design a living room, partially divide an open-plan space with a central column. Within that partition wall add handy alcoves to provide extra storage and also helps to add a decorative touch.

Each side of the partition can be used to display items relevant to the use of that space. For example, decorative kitchen items in the dining area, and books and plants in the living section.

16. Open up a period property

(Image credit: Future PLC)

Don't let the age of your property deter you from making modern alterations. Formal front rooms in older properties can often feel dark and enclosed, so knocking through to form an open-plan living room is a popular choice. Removing a wall between rooms offers greater flexibility for the space and enhances the light in townhouses and terraces particularly.

Before undertaking any work make sure to consult a structural engineer and research any planning permission required.

17. Make rooms work on another level

(Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole)

Not all homes have horizontal ceilings and single-level floors. Highlight these features by building clever storage and outside-of-the-box zones. Play with the levels in tandem with your open-plan living room ideas.

Be savvy with heigh ceilings and create a mezzanine to act as extra living space – such as a home office or guest bedroom. Using a tonal colour palette throughout will help tie the areas together.

18. Boost light and energy with a skylight

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Claire Lloyd Davies)

The beauty of open-plan living room is the sense of space, keeping the mood as light and airy as possible aids this effect. Skylights are the ideal solution for single-floor spaces or extensions.

19. Take windows from floor to ceiling

(Image credit: Future PLC/ James Merrell)

Think about natural light sources to ensure the room stays bright. Making the most of natural light is a great way to keep a room feeling vibrant and lively and can even help a space feel larger than it actually is.

Take things further by optimising your open-plan living room to flow seamlessly out to an adjacent outdoor space. Consider wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling patio doors - they will extend your room and optimise light. Make the transition from inside to out seamless by colour-matching internal flooring with external garden decking ideas.

20. Choose an L-shaped sofa

(Image credit: Future PLC)

Use a corner sofa to define the seating area in a multi-functional open-plan living room ideas, and add a sense of intimacy to a large room. Create a comfy haven and nestle a rug and coffee table into the gap made in front of the living room sofa ideas to give a friendly, more cosy feel.

To further enhance the warm mood and create a cosy feel, paint the wall in this area a darker shade than used in the rest of the room. The moody colour behind the sofa helps to enhance it and make it even more inviting.

21. Plan out your space

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Nicholas Yarsley)

As one of the most social spaces in the house, your living room needs to look good, work hard and function well. Before you begin any work, take a little time to work out how the space functions for you. Is it a relaxing haven, and entertaining space of family central? A sophisticated neutral palette helps create a comfortable feel in this kitchen living area.

The trick is to pay attention to balancing the colour scheme and keeping everything in proportion. After all, open-plan living room ideas are a fundamental part of modern family schemes and need to incorporate all aspects of living.

22. Reconsider furniture placement

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Colin Poole)

It's very easy to keep your dining areas in, or linked to the kitchen section of your open-plan living room ideas. However, this really doesn't haven to be the case.

There's no reason why your dining table can't sit at the other end of the space, leading on from the living area.

If you love entertaining, we recommend positioning your dining table and chairs by the window with the most light. It also creates a lovely flow to a dinner party and you will naturally feel more relaxed sitting near the window and the comfier parts of the space.

How do you style an open-plan living room?

The way you style your open-plan living room ideas helps to determine how you use the space for maximum potential. Think carefully about how to arrange living room furniture. 'Use furniture to separate multi-functional spaces,' advises Rebecca from Furniture and Choice. 'Nothing adds personality to the home like the furniture you choose, and beyond adding to the style, furniture can be positioned in such a way to stylishly divide rooms into clear sections.'

'Start by taking measurements of your furniture, then mapping out on paper what you want each area of the space to be used for. Having this plan in place will help you to visualise the finished product and notice where you can use accessories and statement pieces to create clear “zones” within the room.'

'A bookshelf can be a good way to break up and separate a room in two, just fill the shelving with plenty of books and some trailing houseplants to create a cosy but stylishly-vintage reading nook,' suggests Rebecca. 'This style is perfect if you’re living in a studio apartment or have an open floor plan, as you can add a bookshelf next to your bed to separate your sleeping area from the rest of your space.'

How do you divide a room in an open floor plan?

'Dividing open-plan living room ideas can be done in a number of ways,' says Juliette from Juliettes Interiors. 'If you want a physical divide without compromising the light and feeling for space, opt for a glass screen or Crittal doors. These will give both privacy and separation, but still allow for the rooms to flow together.'

'Alternatively, you could zone the spaces with the use of rugs. Whether it's in the centre of a living space or under a dining table, rugs are a great way to create separation.'

66 really clever ideas to make open-plan work for everyone

66 really clever ideas to make open-plan work for everyone | loveproperty.com

66 really clever ideas to make open-plan work for everyone

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How to master open-plan design

Darlings of Chelsea

An open-plan scheme is the natural choice for sociable, modern living, but a free-flowing floor plan requires careful planning and execution to make sure the space really works. From a large, airy hub fit for the whole family to a multitasking studio apartment setup, here's how to master the secret to open-plan design, no matter the size or style of your home. Click or scroll on for more...

Design around your daily needs

John Lewis

Before you begin creating your dream open-plan interior, take a moment to consider how you will use it from day to day. Do you want to make the ultimate entertaining space or a relaxing haven for cosy nights in? An open-plan layout can add real wow factor to a home, but remember that the space has to work for you and your lifestyle, too. Understand your main needs and think about how many people will be using each space and for what purpose.

Call in the experts

Furniture And Choice

If you’re planning to knock down walls and create an open-plan scheme in your current home, then you’ll definitely need help making the job a success. Experts will not only be able to complete the work to a high standard, but ensure that load-bearing walls are retained, or reinforced steel joists are installed to support the upper floors of the home. Consider hiring an architect, a builder and a structural engineer, to ensure your open-plan space is not only beautiful, but safe too.

Work around invisible walls

Once you've decided on a layout that works for you and your lifestyle, it's time to think about zones and furnishings. It might sound strange, but visualise the space as a series of rooms. Imagine where walls would be located and use this as a template for arranging your furniture. Assign each space a purpose in order to maximise every inch of your open-plan interior.

Plan it out in advance

Another great way to ensure an open-plan layout will work for you is it plan out furniture placement in advance. If you're planning on moving to an open-plan home, or you're renovating your current property, then sketch out room layouts and map out where your furniture and zones will go. If you already have access to the space, use masking tape on the floor to represent each piece of furniture. This way, you'll be able to see whether each item will fit and how the rooms will work together.

Don't neglect soundproofing

Darlings of Chelsea

Open-plan living is great, but by removing walls privacy is reduced and noise is amplified. Therefore, soundproofing is the key to a successful design. Opt for soft flooring to minimise noise and incorporate plenty of soft furnishings like heavy curtains and cushions to absorb sound, especially if you have high ceilings that can amplify noise.

Embrace broken plan

Carpetright

If a fully open-plan space seems too extreme, then a broken-plan layout might work better for you and your lifestyle. This semi-open floor plan allows you to break up a large living area with room dividers, furnishings or accessories, like this shelving unit. You can use this technique to define different zones for different tasks to help you make the most of every inch of space.

Connect to the garden

Jost Architects

Glazing isn't just useful for drawing natural light indoors. By introducing floor-to-ceiling glass doors, you will open your living spaces up to the garden, creating a seamless flow. Your backyard will also instantly become an extension of your interior, enhancing the sense of space, adding usable inches to your home. Make the transition outside even more seamless by matching the internal flooring with that of your external patio.

Reinvent a period property

Open-plan isn't just for modern homes. In fact, opening up a period property can add serious wow-factor. Often, rooms in older homes can feel dark, dingy or cramped, so knocking through to open rooms up can be a great way to add practical living space, value and natural light. You can even open up doorways to create a seamless flow without knocking down walls. Before undertaking any work, be sure to look into planning permission and permitted development rules.

Design around your dimensions

Alvhem

Not every multifunctional living space is square or rectangular – instead of trying to make your room fit into a formulaic open-concept layout, embrace unusual dimensions and create a design that works with the eccentricities of your space. In the U-shaped floor plan of this Scandinavian loft from Alvhem, a long dining table fits snuggly in the thoroughfare between the kitchen zone and the lounge.

Bring in a bold contrast

If you want to create carefully defined living areas within a free-flowing space, don’t be afraid to give different functional zones radically different personalities. In this contrasting scheme, the kitchen features moody grey plaster-effect walls, dark wood furnishings and coordinating appliances. Meanwhile, the adjacent lounge offers a completely different ambience with its bright white walls, light pine shelving and colourful statement furniture.

Move up with a mezzanine

Scavolini

If you have particularly high ceilings or are converting an airy warehouse-style space, think about incorporating a mezzanine floor into your design. Whether used as a seating nook, library or study, it will allow you to create a more intimate area within your airy open-plan living room. In this scheme, metal wire fencing adds an industrial feel while still allowing an easy flow between the two levels.

Slip in storage

Alvhem

Don’t be afraid of squeezing more functional zones into your open-concept layout. This compact room divider has been fitted with coat hooks and shoe cubbies, as well as higher shelves for bags and accessories. Not only does it add valuable storage space, but it helps define the transition between the kitchen and dining area in this snug multipurpose room too.

Sink the floor

Naked Kitchens

If you prefer modern open-plan living spaces with no walls or room dividers, there are other ways you can create a subtle distinction between functional areas. In this light-filled multiuse room, the sleek kitchen and dining area sit at floor level, while the floor has been lowered to create a cosy sunken TV area – a modern take on a mid-century conversation pit.

Bring in botanicals

Alvhem

While accent colours can unify distinct zones in a large, open-plan room, they’re not the only tool in a decorator’s arsenal. If you’re more of a minimalist, instead of disrupting a crisp, clean scheme with superfluous hues, why not turn to Mother Nature instead? Vibrant foliage and houseplants are a great way to create a visual connection between different areas without compromising on a streamlined aesthetic.

Make lighting striking

Lighting Lover

Consider how you're going to light your space right from the get-go in order to plan for the electrical wiring and sockets required. Options include stylish pendant lighting to illuminate a kitchen island, a cluster of pendant lights over a dining table, downlighters over the worktops and brighter spots that can be dimmed in your main lounge area.

Unify with a theme

Dunelm

Create a cohesive look in a large, multiuse space by embracing a unifying theme. Here, a subtle coastal scheme works hard to tie together the living room and dining area. Deep blue walls and furnishings create a visual connection and draw the eye through the adjacent spaces, while jute and rattan accessories complete the harmonious feel.

Add a double-sided fireplace

Try to give each distinct area of your room its own focal point. In the kitchen, it could be the island unit or the range cooker. In the dining space, it might be a dramatic pendant light. In the living area, a fireplace is ideal. Here, a fireplace has been built into a small partition wall between the dining and living space for a designer look. And, if you thought you needed a chimney for a fireplace, think again: the latest bio-ethanol fires don't require a flue and can be placed anywhere.

Keep thoroughfares clear

Cuckooland

An open-plan room is often a busy space with lots of foot traffic. Keep floors and walkthroughs clear by choosing slimline sideboards and fixing the TV onto the wall. As audiovisual technology moves on, television sets are getting thinner and lighter so they are much easier to mount. Narrow, unobtrusive furnishings are a particularly good idea if you have young children around.

Add a corner sofa

While there are so many styles of sofa to choose from, a large corner or L-shaped sofa is a great way to zone off your lounge in an airy open-plan space. For something practical and durable, go for a tactile family-friendly fabric like leather. An inviting focal point, complete the relaxed vibe with a rug, coffee table and plenty of soft cushions.

Don't overlook heating

It goes without saying that due to the lack of walls, open-plan living rooms can become cold and drafty quickly. Many homeowners overlook the fact that a single radiator is powerful enough to warm a closed-off space, but not a large, open room. So, before you knock down walls, hire a heating engineer to check whether your current boiler and radiator set-up will be enough to heat your home. You may need to consider extra heat sources, such as underfloor heating, which could increase your energy bills.

Install a stove

Ludlow Stoves

Another way of adding warmth and a rosy glow to your open space, is with a wood-burning stove. Whether you opt for a traditional model or something ultra-modern, the stove will not only increase the cosiness of your interior, but create a focal feature that will tie your open-plan rooms together.

Go dark and dramatic

Carpetright

A large open space with plenty of light creates a fabulous canvas to experiment with colour. Dark paint shades will create a cosy and inviting vibe when teamed with warm oak flooring. Add to the ambience with pendant feature lights and gentle spotlighting overhead to boost the moody atmosphere in the evening.

Turn up the texture

If your open-plan room was originally designed for a use other than living in, it might require a little bit more softness and comfort to make it a space you'll want to spend lots of time in. Make sure it has plenty of homely character by using natural elements such as wood flooring, textured soft furnishings and lush houseplants. Add cushions to sofas, go for long drapes and layer rugs to make it cosy and inviting.

Make walls mesmerising

Use wall art to visually divide open-plan areas into discreet zones. Gallery walls with family photographs will personalise your living areas, whereas neon wall lighting looks quirky and adds atmosphere to dining or home office areas.

Partition with glass

Sliding glass doors or panels are a very effective way of dividing an open-plan space into smaller zones while ensuring plenty of light flows through the entire area. Here, a dividing wall has been half-glazed with panels to separate the living area from the kitchen-diner without the space feeling like two disconnected rooms.

Impart flexibility with pocket doors

P C Henderson

If you don't like the idea of using internal glass, there are some alternatives that will allow you to impart flexibility into your open-plan design. Sliding pocket doors, which literally disappear into niches in the wall, will enable you to open up spaces when you want to, and close them off again whenever the need arises. This approach is particularly useful for those with children, as it means you can create zones, increase privacy and reduce interior noise flow.

Slot in an eating space

Maisons du Monde

Make furniture multifunctional. The slimline design of this bistro-style bar table is perfect for a quick meal and also makes good use of space by separating the kitchen from the living room in a small area. This one has extra storage shelves on the side to keep tableware. It can then be easily moved to the side of the room when more floor space is required.

Zone with furniture

Norsu Interiors

Use furniture to zone off an airy open-plan space in need of structure. This modern living area is divided into thirds thanks to carefully arranged fixtures – the breakfast bar separates the kitchen and dining zones, while the sofa creates an intimate seating nook that’s distanced from the busy culinary space.

Choose an L-shaped layout

If you're extending your home or knocking down or repositioning walls to create a whole new open-plan space, think about making it L-shaped. It's easier to break a room up if it isn't a standard square or rectangle shape. An L-shaped room will allow you to create a hidden eating or sitting space in a corner – this layout tucks the kitchen neatly away when required.

Make the stairs the star

The Sofa Workshop

Stairs can add a striking architectural feature to open-plan rooms. This industrial-style open-plan living room has a rustic vibe thanks to the factory-style iron staircase and exposed brick wall. The apothecary drawers and metal coffee table bring the whole look together.

Make the staircase disappear

Harvey Jones

At the other end of the scale, if you prefer your staircase to blend into the backdrop paint the steps and banister the same colour as the walls. Here, this minimalist staircase has open risers and a ceiling-hung balustrade so it appears to float in the room, offering a stylish and space-saving addition to this contemporary open-plan living room.

Choose a monochrome palette

John Lewis

When it comes to the heart of the home, living rooms are overtaking kitchens so a stylish open-plan communal space that provides room for relaxing, working, exercising and dining is the key to success. This industrial-style open-concept room uses easygoing modern furniture, cosy texture and lush greenery to make it homely. The large space is then pulled together with black accents and a soft white palette.

Add a privacy curtain

John Lewis

A clever way to create temporary walls, curtains are affordable and very easy to install. Add a curtain track to the area of the room you'd like to screen off and hang made-to-measure curtains or voiles to get the right floor-to-ceiling length. If the zone is in the middle of the room, choose a double-sided design that looks good from both sides.

Create a coherent backdrop

Help create a flow in a small open-plan space by making sure the backdrop is predominantly the same colour. Here, walls, kitchen cupboards and furniture are variants of the same tone to make the room feel spacious and cohesive. Two statement chairs and a panel of wallpaper add pretty and subtle interest.

Bring in a barn door

Give your open-plan living space a rustic touch by installing a barn door. Sometimes a little privacy might be needed, so sliding a barn door into place as a temporary divide between zones is an on-trend solution – just the ticket for a cosy movie night or an intimate dinner.

Utilise the side return

Harvey Jones

A small expansion such as a side return extension will enlarge an open-plan space to accommodate a kitchen-diner and living space in one. It's a popular route to open-plan living in older homes – if your home is dark, opt for a skylight in the ceiling to flood the space with light.

Make walls two-tone

Unify a small open-plan living room with an on-trend paint technique. When space is tight, look to the upper portion of the walls and the ceiling. Paint this upper area a refreshing shade to make a statement across the entire room. Choose crisp white for the lower parts of the walls to create contrast; it will also reflect the light and maximise the feeling of space. Blonde wood and white furniture set against the walls add to the vibrancy of this invigorating room.

Impart plenty of personality

@shabbychicinteriors / Lina Ikse / IKEA

Large open-plan living rooms can lack character so adding personal objects will make the space feel homely. Soft grey makes a neutral base for this vast picture wall, creating a flexible focal point that anchors the scheme. Mid-century furniture and pops of mustard and blue add to the eclectic look of this inviting family space.

Bring in bookcases

Open-plan living rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows are usually light-filled and airy, however, storage space can become tricky. One solution is to place back-to-back bookshelves in the centre of the room as a divider. Glass doors will keep colour-coordinated books dust-free and why not install ambient lighting on top to create an atmospheric evening glow too?

Maximise natural light

Masterclass Kitchens

Before planning your open living zones, think about natural light sources. The brighter a room, the more inviting and spacious it will feel. To maximise light flow and create a stylish indoor-outdoor living space, install large floor-to-ceiling sliding, bi-folding or Crittall-style glass doors.

Play with paint

Snug Sofa

A bold feature wall makes a striking addition to a home and creates a clear visual link between adjacent living areas. Painting the walls opposite each other the same hue can elongate a small space, while a strong focal feature can really add wow-factor.

Zone functional areas with flooring

Walls and Floors

A larger open-plan space allows you to be more creative with your flooring options. It's possible to mix and match different types of flooring to help separate living zones, as long as the flooring types complement each other and create a cohesive flow. Here, porcelain tiles have been used in the kitchen area, blending into warm wood floors elsewhere. The patchwork-effect floor is then repeated in the central space to define the living area.

Dine around a circular table

Norsu Interiors

Narrow open-plan rooms will benefit from swapping out a standard dinner table for a round design. The curved edges take up much less floor space, creating a mini kitchen-diner in an especially snug area. Here, a built-in bench allows the table to sit towards the side of the room to allow plenty of passage for through traffic.

Create cohesion with wallpaper

Farrow & Ball

If your multiuse space feels unharmonious and disjointed, a bold design choice can be the unifying element you need. This Art Deco-inspired Farrow & Ball wallpaper helps tie together the kitchen and dining space with ease, creating a colourful feature wall that balances out the crisp white table and island.

Celebrate structural features

Hamptons International

If your open-plan space has characterful features like exposed beams or support columns, don't try to disguise them. Instead, let these architectural quirks enhance your scheme for a completely unique interior. In this beautiful barn conversion, characterful woodwork and an original brick hearth frame a charming country-style living space.

Conceal your kitchen

For a cohesive open-plan space, make the kitchen area as unobtrusive as possible with clever design and sleek finishes. Here, the kitchen units run along the back wall and are raised off the floor. The unit fronts are simple, contemporary and handleless, plus they fit in with the scheme's chocolate brown tonal palette. When not in use, this kitchen has the air of a smart sideboard at the edge of the dining space. This would look equally as good in a classic white or sleek black scheme.

Slot in a desk

Sharps

A home without walls means you may have to factor in multipurpose spaces. Create a hardworking home office that's still part of the wider scheme with a desk that's in keeping with your décor. Don't neglect smart storage either, as it'll be on display all the time. If privacy is an issue, you could close off the area with a curtain or freestanding screen.

Pick flooring for all zones

The Porcelain Superstore

Using the same flooring throughout your open-plan living room will maximise the sense of space. Choose a coherent material that is slip-resistant and will withstand spillages in the kitchen, yet look timeless and soothing in the living area.

Divide with shelving

Tile Mountain

To give a large room instant shape and structure, use freestanding furniture to differentiate the various areas. A simple shelving unit placed between the lounge and dining space is an easy way to zone a large multiuse space, plus it'll give you practical extra storage.

Make room for all

When planning your space, think about creating a scheme that complements your lifestyle. This plain rectangular room has been transformed into an inviting hub that's perfect for family life. Two sofas are socially positioned in an L-shape, while wall-hung storage will keep a busy space organised from day to day.

Streamline appliances

Optiplan Kitchens

When your kitchen is part of a larger living space, it's regularly on show to visitors. It's not ideal if guests can see your socks spinning around in your washing machine, and you don't want your white goods to make such a din that you can't hear the TV, either. Go for integrated machines that can be hidden behind cupboard doors and buy the quietest possible models. Integrated fridges, freezers and dishwashers will also make your kitchen look sleeker.

Duplicate furniture

Masterclass Kitchens

Consistency is key and will make your open-plan home look streamlined and elegant. Create a visual link between spaces by choosing matching furniture. Here, pale neutral walls allow black fixtures and accessories to become the main feature, seamlessly blending one zone into another.

Put a peninsula to work

Kebbell Homes

A peninsular unit that juts out at a right angle from a wall of units can help you to create a natural barrier between your kitchen and the rest of the space. It can also provide useful additional countertop and storage space for the kitchen while doubling up as a breakfast bar too.

Add a skylight

Westbury Garden Rooms

In large open spaces with windows limited to one aspect, the area in the middle can often be starved of light. Installing a skylight or a glass lantern can make the world of difference, bathing the heart of the room in natural light. Install electric blinds on those lightwells too, so when you do want a cosy feel at night it's easy to shut out the outside world.

Wheel in furniture

The great thing about an open-plan space is that it can be easily rearranged to set a whole new scene as and when you need. If you want your room to be really versatile, invest in furniture with wheels. This coffee table, for example, can be easily pushed against the wall within seconds. It's also possible to purchase sofas, dining tables, bookshelves and even island units that are on castors.

Step it up

John Lewis

Consider your interior floor plan. Creating a split-level floor in your open-plan space will help to discreetly zone off different areas. Here, a small step takes you up to the light-filled living area. Meanwhile, a step down could be used as a transition into a cosy snug or a more formal dining space.

Make room for play

The beauty of an open-plan living area is that it allows you to watch over young children playing and older kids doing homework, while you kick back and relax or get on with other tasks. Consider including a playmat, study desk or even a games zone in your layout. To avoid the space being completely taken over by toys and tech, invest in boxes or baskets that can be tucked away out of sight.

Plump for a partition

KUPRYNENKO ANDRII / Shutterstock

In an open-plan studio flat or small space, a half-wall can work well to screen off the kitchen from the rest of the room without blocking out any light. A neat little breakfast bar has been created on one side of this wall, while the other side supports the TV, which faces out into a cosy living area.

Maximise extraction

JR-stock / Shutterstock

It's wonderful to be able to cook and entertain simultaneously and an open-plan space allows you to do that with ease. What you don't want though is for the whole room to smell of whatever you're cooking, so it's important to equip your kitchen with a high-powered extractor to whisk all those odours away.

Don't skimp on storage

Rational Kitchens

Keeping an open-plan space tidy can be a challenge – especially if you have a family. The easiest way to stay organised is to have a place for everything. This means investing in a mix of hidden storage and display areas for those more attractive items. Here, the kitchen units, broken up by open shelving, have been taken right up to the ceiling so there's no redundant space.

Roll out a rug

Furniture And Choice

If you have the same flooring throughout, rugs are a cheap and easy way to help zone your areas. As a guide, the rug should be no wider or narrower than the furniture that's placed on it. Always make sure there is a small border of flooring visible at the edges, which will create the illusion of more space too.

Suspend from the ceiling

Photographee.eu / Shutterstock

Using the ceiling to suspend items can be a very effective way of dividing up a large multiuse room, and making use of all available space. Here, the ceiling over the island holds the extractor fan and a striking glass display unit. Pan racks fixed to the ceiling would work in a similar space-efficient way. However, this trick is most effective in rooms with high ceilings, otherwise it can overcrowd a space.

Colour-code zones

John Lewis

If you want to create a distinction between your living zones without ending up with a jarring, disconnected scheme, decorate each individual area with different hues. Here, deep blue and powder pink armchairs define this sitting area, while pale sage accents dominate the kitchen. Pops of yellow create a cohesive link between the two spaces.

Choose space-savvy furniture

For open-plan rooms where space is at a premium, consider investing in clever furnishings that have been specially made for snug schemes. This angular IKEA table frees up the thoroughfare with its unique triangular design, which can also extend to double the length to accommodate guests when needed.

Keep it clean

When it comes to open-plan living, less really is more. The size of your space, and the way you use it, should help you to design an open-plan interior that is effortless for everyday living. Keep clutter and unnecessary furnishings to a minimum. Consider the flow of the room and arrange your furnishings accordingly, keeping them in proportion so as not to overwhelm the space. Are there some items that really don't work in the space? If so, let them go and instead stick with a clean and simple aesthetic.

Choose the right furniture

Darlings of Chelsea

When working with an open floorplan, it's essential that you keep your furnishings in proportion to the space you're working with. Large spaces will require more furniture to add warmth and a sense of homeliness, while smaller spaces shouldn’t be overwhelmed with too many items. You don’t have to choose over-sized furnishings, but consider how each piece will fill the space to avoid empty expanses with no clear purpose.

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13 April 2022

Interiors

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33+ Open Space Ideas for the Kitchen and Living Room • 333+ Photos • [ArtFacade]

With modern requirements for ergonomics, comfort and rationality of living, it is no longer enough just to combine rooms into a single space with high-quality, well-thought-out zoning. Now, along with this decision, openness, integration with nature and the introduction of living space into the environment have become a trend. Modern, practical and effective open space ideas for kitchen and living room allow you to achieve the maximum level of contact with the landscape.

small kitchen with living room

The environment practically merges with the interior, becoming part of it. Right from your sofa or at your dining table, you can enjoy panoramic views of the horizon. And the mood and atmosphere of the environment fill the house. Feel the light sea breeze, the romance of a spring garden, the warmth and joy of a summer day right in your kitchen, dining room, living room.

kitchen design with a hall

Today we will consider such ideas. They will help you become more daring about the architecture of your own home, make the right decision in the context of implementing the most fashionable engineering idea of our time in suburban construction - open space.

Through open kitchen and living room

kitchen with living room in a private house

One of the coolest, most impressive ideas was the kitchen-living room, open from two sides at once. Here we managed to get rid of the effect of a closed box, achieving the most free, environment-friendly space.

kitchen with living room in the house

The idea is especially relevant for houses on a hill, when impressive panoramic views open up on two or more sides of the building at once. So you can admire the scenery almost around the house.

combined kitchen and living room design

The open space of the kitchen and living room is filled with natural light. The atmosphere and mood in the room changes throughout the day. The accommodation wakes up at dawn and plunges into an atmosphere of romance every evening. At the same time, you have the opportunity to admire the views that change towards the horizon through open panoramic structures.

Open plan living space ideas in nature

Modern living room kitchens

Open space is a chance for close integration of housing with the natural environment. Due to the panoramic structures in the entire wall, which can be removed, it turns out to almost plunge into nature, to create a close interaction with it.

With this open space kitchen and living room idea , the home is transformed into a new, modernized human environment where comfort, technology and wildlife meet. Housing ceases to be a home in the usual sense. Now it is a localized environment that has adapted to close proximity to the environment.

The smell of herbs, the freshness of the forest, the peaceful singing of birds fill your living room, kitchen and dining room. Moreover, private rooms, such as bedrooms, can be closely hidden from all this, remain quiet, secluded corners of your home.

Open space with living room, dining room, kitchen

zoning kitchen living room

It is so important that the house is self-sufficient, and each room in it performs all the tasks provided. That is why it is important to provide three zones at once in the open social part of the building.

living room kitchen zoning

Ideas for open space for the kitchen, living room and dining room involve the arrangement of independent areas in which you can cook, have breakfast, lunch and dinner, relax. Each of these zones loves contact with the environment.

studio kitchen with bar counter

In this case, the space is filled with light, visual and tactile contact with the environment is created, and the area expands. The room seems much larger. To emphasize this effect, they make high ceilings, lighten the interior in the context of decor.

design of a kitchen combined with a living room

Kitchen and living room as an open space

design of a kitchen studio in a private house

In such a layout, the kitchen and living room are considered not as a room, but as an environment that closely interacts with the landscape. It is impossible to say where the house ends and the terrace with the pool begins. All this is a single object.

modern kitchen living room

Such a cool and dynamic idea of an open space for the kitchen and living room is an integration of the adjoining recreation area and the living area itself.

Opening a panoramic window, we get a common area, which is partly under a canopy, partly equipped under the ceiling, and partly under the open sky.

Open Space in the design of the kitchen and living room

living room with kitchen in the house

Today, the concept of arranging the space of Open Space is actively used not only for offices, but also for housing. The combination of the living room, kitchen, dining room in one room and the emphasis on the openness of this space allows you to achieve rationality and spaciousness of the living space.

design of a combined living room and dining room

Unlike an office, Open Space in a living space does not imply division into clusters, each of which will be at the disposal of one or another tenant. It is characterized by generalization and integration into a single, dynamic environment, when everyone can fully use the space without interfering with each other.

Open plan living space

kitchen living room in gray tones

Next, we see a layout that integrates with the courtyard. At the same time, landscape design and interior are made in the same style, palette, mood.

living room kitchen in a country house

This is one of the most daring decisions when you literally create a single environment, combining not just the kitchen with the dining room and living room, but also with landscape design.

small kitchen living room

Feel the freshness, majesty and good neighborliness of nature, enjoy the views, feel the dynamism of life, even just being at home. With new solutions, it is no longer possible to say that being at home, you are within four walls. With an open layout, every day is a new experience, emotions and mood, without even leaving the threshold.

kitchen-living room combination

The most stunning, spectacular open space ideas for the kitchen and living room give not just comfort in everyday life, but emotions. Moreover, they change depending on the weather, time of day, air temperature, the situation on the street, and other circumstances.

Pass-through open kitchen and living room
Open plan living space ideas in nature
Open space with living room, dining room, kitchen
Kitchen and living room as an open space
Open space in the design of the kitchen and living room
Open plan living space

Open space in the interior - Modern trend

Turn on any design program and you'll hear the phrase "open space concept" over and over again. By removing walls to create open, airy plans for the living room, dining room, kitchen or lounge area, this is what the “open space concept” is all about. For many people, the interior with separate rooms still retains its charm. But many homeowners are picking up a sledgehammer to change their traditional beliefs. Changing the interior, making it free, airy, they want to enjoy the space so that they can enjoy everything from cooking, involving children in the kitchen, turning it into an exciting activity, meeting friends in a spacious living room or watching a romantic movie. Today we are talking about open space in the interior.

An excellent example of a large living room combined with a kitchen area. The lighting is divided into three parts, the general consisting of LED spotlights, pendant lights for the kitchen, above the kitchen island and a floor lamp in the seating area.

1. How it all began.

The development of post-war construction still absorbed the foundations of the pre-war period. Where each room has its own separate task and is separated from the rest, in the vast majority of cases by a door. Cook in the kitchen, relax in the living room, dining rooms were most often formal. In the 50s and 60s, American developers proposed a different layout of the house. How to use less space effectively. This is how duplex houses and small but comfortable ranches appeared, which quickly became very popular.

Today, architecture and interior design are still very sensitive to the economic situation, but they are still highly influenced by cultural norms and the desire for convenience. Now, in most families, gender roles are blurred, if earlier the husband earned, and the wife stayed at home and raised children, now both parents work, cook, care for and raise children. The world has become unusually large, an ocean of information, different countries, events, everything is available without leaving home. It is only necessary to have time at the end of the working day to keep up with life.

Bright living and living room. A lot of wood, the room breathes life. Widely used glazing fills the room with light.

Pendant lights are only used above the kitchen island and dining area. In the kitchen, the main lighting is provided by a busbar lighting system.

2. Advantages of open space.

The open plan living room is one of the most popular for many reasons. First, open space makes even the smallest space a little bigger and brighter. Even in a small apartment with a tiny windowless living room, you can make a big difference by changing the walls or removing the large center table. The living room can be made brighter and more fun by combining it with a kitchen with a common outdoor area. You can chat with your family or guests while cooking. A kitchen island or table that is used for its intended purpose can be used as a center for a food and drink buffet.

Also, the large, open space gives parents more control over their children. You can cook food and supervise the kids in the same way, or do fitness while looking after a child who can draw on a coffee table. By installing a TV or computer on the wall, we make the room more functional and multimedia.

3. Nuances to keep in mind.

Since we talk about the benefits of open space all the time, you need to be honest and point out other aspects of such a layout that can stop you or seem significant in order to change your mind. For example, the apparent closeness or intimacy of a space is lost when you combine rooms. It may also be difficult for you to communicate on the phone when your children are watching TV or being naughty. By removing walls, we lose space that could be used for paintings, memorable photographs, souvenirs from distant lands. Fewer walls means fewer outlets or less convenient placement, and hiding a lot of wires can be difficult in such an open space.

Also, open space, in addition to a great look and style, has a downside. If you are a fan of neatness and cleanliness, then you can not read further, but if you are not inclined to regular cleaning and cleanliness, then open space is not for you. Scattered things, unwashed dishes, scattered children's toys, all this will immediately destroy all the charm of an open living room. So, if you don't have a penchant for cleanliness and order like Bree Van De Kamp, you should think twice if such an interior is right for you.

For example, this living room has a very clear zoning. Kitchen area, bar counter, dining area and seating area. Stylish pendant lamps with transparent lampshades, can be decorated with retro Edison lamps. Their task will not be to illuminate, but to create a warm living light, under which you can enjoy sitting with friends over a glass of beer. The recreation area, despite the fact that it has natural lighting at its disposal, interior table lamps will add all the styles. Above the dining table, a stylish pendant chandelier rightfully dominates.

4. Use the setting and lighting to highlight the desired areas.

Select individual functional areas using furniture. For example, place a sofa and table near the kitchen to define the beginning of the living room. Next, define the center of the living room by placing a rug in it. Lighting plays a huge role in highlighting various zones, a large space. For example, a dining table can be highlighted with a beautiful hanging chandelier, and a seating area can be equipped with a ceiling lamp with a fan.

Here is a prime example of the right approach to lighting. LOFT lamps fit perfectly into the style of the kitchen, a pendant lamp with amber shades visually stretches the dining area vertically, and a pendant chandelier above the seating area, on the contrary, makes it wider and more airy.

5. Maintain design continuity.

It seems obvious, but maintaining aesthetics throughout the open area of the living space is paramount. Fundamental features such as flooring and lighting should be consistent with the overall concept of the new space. Color palettes for different parts of the open space should complement each other. Add layers or textures in different hues, add flair or set the right accents.

6. Create uniqueness in every part of the room.

Creating a standout design feature in each area will help define each space and make your room look special at different times of the day, in different ways. For example, you can make a glass wall, like a gallery, to separate the dining area from the seating area. Hang a large pendant chandelier to brightly illuminate the centerpiece, or use hardwood flooring in a different color or pattern. Create a personality in every part of your living room.

7. Keep the space open.

Be stylish, but strategize where everything fits in the new space. Don't clutter the open space with cabinets or inappropriately large furniture or accessories. Be sure to save the windows so that there is more natural light in the room. Open space certainly has its downsides, but the efficient use of space, multifunctional elements, and brighter living interiors make it extremely popular with modern homeowners today. And what choice would you make, would you make life brighter or would you keep intimacy in the house?