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A kitchen with an open floor plan style and with white and walnut cabinetry
Walker Woodworking

Design Notes

Why Have An Open Floor Plan

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While the kitchen was often viewed as the place where food was merely prepped and served, it has transitioned into a command center as people gather to talk or enjoy a snack while getting some work done. Layouts have slowly shifted to accommodate this change, which has produced the open concept. This floor plan allows families to stay connected even when they are doing things in different areas of the home. While not as popular as it was in the 1990s and early 2000s, many families still choose this floor plan because of their desire to stay close to their family and guests. Today, we want to discuss the open floor concept, the elements that make it up, and if it is the right fit for your family.

Focus On The Focal Points

A multi-functional space is a great plus in a home, but it is essential that each space feels distinct, often achieved through unique focal points. For instance, it might be the fireplace in the living room, the light fixture hanging over the kitchen island, and the beautiful art piece in the dining room area. Creating a focal point allows each area to be its own space while still being connected to the other areas. This is a key to the function of the space.

Walker Woodworking custom cabinets kitchen lighting kitchen island white kitchen cabinets inset cabinets

Open Concept Feels Larger

Because it is an open concept, the area can feel less confined and larger, a great selling point, but more on that later. Walled rooms can make a space feel small and restricted, but by allowing it to be more open, there is a great flow from one section to another. It is also nice to be in one spot and still feel connected to your family, no matter where they are in the room. Connection is something many homeowners are looking for in their home, and this layout successfully delivers this. Look at this open concept project.

Easy To Host

If you enjoy hosting family gatherings of all sizes, then an open concept is perfect for you. This layout was designed for gatherings where even the host can feel a part of the fun while still making sure everything is running smoothly. With sight lines into any room available, everyone can gather in small groups to talk while remaining connected to the whole group. Since the kitchen is easily accessible to everyone, it also makes the perfect place to set up your buffet line, making serving a breeze and clean-up simple.

white and grey kitchen with gold lighting
Walker Woodworking

Coordination

Color is an important element in designing any space, and variety adds a lot of personality, but when doing an open concept, it is important that the areas coordinate. Since this large area serves multiple functions, having a similar color scheme can bring it all together in a harmonious way. This does not mean that it needs to be a large amount, but maybe choosing pillows for the living room that have a similar shade to the window treatments in the dining room can be a great way to achieve a cohesive design. Your designer can be a great asset to you in the selection process.

Adds Value

Since many families are looking for ways to stay connected yet enjoy individual spaces, an open concept layout means added value if you choose to sell. Kids can always be in sight of their parents as they get dinner ready, and the kitchen can be the gathering place once everyone gets home. An open concept is a win for those who want to have a beautiful, multi-functional space and for those looking to appeal to a potential buyer.

open and connected kitchen, white and walnut
Walker Woodworking

Open Concept Floor Plan

Do you think this layout is the one for you and your family? Schedule an appointment to meet with one of our experienced designers and discuss the next step in the process. We have assisted numerous clients in finding the perfect space for them. Our service area extends into both western North Carolina and upstate South Carolina and continues to expand. Let us help you design and build a space for your family where you can feel connected through open concepts.

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a kitchen with a large island and a stoveWalker Woodworking

Simple ways to make your Home look Elegant on a Budget

Life, Styled

When decorating your home, the last thing you want is to look like a cheap knockoff of something elegant. That is why it’s essential to choose your furniture and accessories wisely. You don’t want stuff that will make your space look drab or outdated. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to spruce up your digs without breaking the bank. In this article, we’ll look at simple ways to make your home look elegant on a budget.

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April 14, 2023/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Walker-Woodworking-custom-cabinets-kitchen-island-wolf-steam-oven-silverware-divider-drawer-slanted-spice-drawer-half-knife-block-divider-mullions-walnut-island.jpg?fit=1980%2C1320&ssl=1 1320 1980 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2023-04-14 16:50:392025-07-21 16:51:30Simple ways to make your Home look Elegant on a Budget
A kitchen with a large island countertop with white cabinets and barstools with wood floorWalker Woodworking

7 Popular Kitchen Design Features

Design Notes

The kitchen is one of the most functional areas in the home, as it serves a multitude of needs. It is where we cook for our family, host special gatherings, and celebrate the wins. This is why including these kitchen design features matters, as it means creating a kitchen that works for and with you, leaving you more time for the things that truly matter. Take the time to evaluate your space and the things you do every day, so that when you attend your design meeting, you can share exactly what you need with your designer, and they can tailor your space to meet your needs. We also invite you to visit our showroom located in Shelby, NC, and browse our numerous displays.

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April 1, 2023/by Sierra
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Walker-Woodworking-custom-cabinets-kitchen-backsplash-lighting-canned-lighting-countertop-bar-stools-inset.jpg?fit=1853%2C1280&ssl=1 1280 1853 Sierra https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Sierra2023-04-01 16:52:282025-07-23 16:52:577 Popular Kitchen Design Features
a dining room with a table and blue couchesWalker Woodworking

Top 5 Sustainable Materials for Interior Design

Design Notes

Home is a special word because it represents comfort, refuge, and family. Our home is meant to be the culmination of everything we cherish, which is why designers work tirelessly to create the perfect environment. Recently, however, there has been a movement to rethink how we design in order to minimize our carbon footprint. Interest in sustainability has increased in recent years as homeowners and designers seek ways to reduce waste and minimize environmental impact. One way is selecting sustainable materials for use in our home products. From furnishings to accent pieces, there are certain items that are more eco-friendly and come with benefits for you and your family. Let’s talk about the sustainable design approach and the top five sustainable materials you can incorporate into your home.

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March 14, 2023/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blue-bench-seat-dining-room-table-custom-cabinets-pool-view-porch-view-custom-furniture-Greenbrook-Design-mixing-colors.jpg?fit=1920%2C1280&ssl=1 1280 1920 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2023-03-14 17:28:402025-07-23 17:42:52Top 5 Sustainable Materials for Interior Design
A mudroom with blue cabinetry and a sitting area and a dog inside the cabinetWalker Woodworking

Window Treatments for every area of your Home

Life, Styled

Window treatments are a great accent to any area of the home, including home offices, laundry rooms, and dining areas. Each has various needs that should be considered, as well as the style that best suits the particular area. Home offices are where you will spend a large portion of your daylight hours, so be sure to consider the location of your computer in relation to the window and any potential issues with glare that may arise.

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March 14, 2023/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Walker-Woodworking-custom-cabinets-drop-zone-mud-room-blue-cabinets-notch-pull-slab-door-floating-shelves-window.jpg?fit=1024%2C1280&ssl=1 1280 1024 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2023-03-14 15:45:092025-10-06 19:50:52Window Treatments for every area of your Home
A dry beverage center with a small refrigerator with cans and drinks inside itWalker Woodworking

The Perfect Pairing: Countertops and Backsplash

Life, Styled

Many elements make up a beautiful kitchen, but without a doubt, the countertops and backsplash are the focal points. These materials have become more than just practical tools in the kitchen. They are now works of art and an opportunity for homeowners to add a touch of themselves to the design. Of course, there must be a balance between the two, where they work together to create a cohesive design. Multiple ways exist to create both beautiful and functional looks in the kitchen. Here we answer some common questions surrounding the topic.

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March 14, 2023/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Walker-Woodworking-custom-cabinets-beverage-center-backsplash-brass-hardware-frameless-kitchen-cabinets-white-kitchen-countertop.jpg?fit=854%2C1280&ssl=1 1280 854 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2023-03-14 09:19:422025-10-06 19:22:42The Perfect Pairing: Countertops and Backsplash
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112 N. Lafayette St.
Shelby, NC 28150

 

Contact
Jan@greenbrookdesign.com
980-404-9600

 

Showroom Hours:
Monday 9 to 5 pm
Tuesday 9 to 5 pm
Wednesday 9 to 5 pm
Thursday 9 to 5 pm
Friday 10 to 4 pm
First Friday’s extended hours 5 to 7 pm
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Our showroom is open to the public. Design meetings require an appointment, which can be done by phone or email. CONTACT US

 

Vendors require an appointment. Please contact: Jan@greenbrookdesign.com

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