Design Notes
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.
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.
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.
Greenbrook DesignMany of our clients come to us from an hour or more away, often from the greater Charlotte metro area. A common question we hear is, “Why make the drive to Shelby when there are design centers closer to home?” It’s a fair question—and one we completely understand. That’s why we’d like to share a few key reasons why we believe the experience, service, and value you’ll find at Greenbrook Design make the trip well worth it.
Walker WoodworkingThere are many elements that help assemble the perfect design for your space, such as color, texture, and pattern, but one, in particular, plays a key role in making a statement: the focal point. Without a focal point, a room can feel busy or even boring, as it lacks something that immediately draws the eye. This is one of the reasons it is essential to include a focal point in the design; however, given its critical role, sufficient thought should be given to placing it in the optimal location. How do you design the perfect focal point that stands out without overpowering everything else? How do you best use focal points in a room or design with it in mind? Let’s explore the answers to getting the most out of your focal point.
Greenbrook DesignThe sofa is often one of the first things we notice when entering the living room since it tends to be the largest object in the room. We love to stretch out to watch TV or curl up under a blanket to read a book. Sometimes it also ends up being the quick solution to an additional place to sleep when in a bind. Designers have verified that this is a key piece of furniture for the living room, making it a sizable investment when the time comes for it to be replaced. As it is so important to the design, it stands to reason that there should be some things considered before making your next purchase. What things, exactly, should you look for before finalizing your choice, and what makes a sofa perfect for your home? Read on to find out some helpful tips that can assist you in picking your next sofa.
Home is the place where everyone can fully relax and be themselves. It is the center for all of our main activities, but sometimes we need a space that caters to our specific needs, especially when it comes to husbands and wives. This is why his and her spaces were invented: to give each an area to call their own, tailored to function just for them. From bathrooms to bedrooms and even the home office, having something that functions for your unique lifestyle routine can make a big difference in how you accomplish your day-to-day tasks with minimal stress and maximum success. When designing for these spaces, what should you include? What areas matter most, and how do you create the perfect his and her space within the same square footage? Let’s answer those questions for multiple areas within your home.
Walker WoodworkingPersonal Expression Through Design. There is no denying the truth found in the statement, your home is your castle, and who doesn’t want a custom castle? Now, more than ever, there are items available to help you completely personalize your spaces to reflect your unique personality. There is freedom to break the traditional design rules of the past and express yourself in so many ways by combining what you love into something new. Every area of your home should tell guests your story; it should speak to them of the things that matter most to you. By selecting colors, textures, patterns, shapes, and art that accurately reflect your individual tastes, you can achieve that goal. Don’t be afraid to step outside of the box and share what matters to you. At its core, that is what design is about: using a combination of varying elements to tell your story to the world.
Greenbrook Design
Walker Woodworking