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 DesignMaking the decision to open our own showroom was not done overnight. It began as the answer to a need for our clients. They needed a place where they could come and explore the possibilities that awaited them for their home renovation. It was important to our owners, Travis and Stacey Walker, that their clients could see and feel the products, enhancing their design experience. As the idea became a reality, the Walkers realized the added benefit of having more than just cabinets featured in the showroom. Greenbrook Design is proud to be an authorized dealer for not just four lines of cabinetry but multiple home furnishings and decor companies like Europe 2 You and Moe’s. Get a peek inside the showroom here and listen to Stacey share her vision of the showroom.
We have all witnessed the transformation this past year, bedrooms become offices, kitchen tables become classrooms, and your basement doubles as a home gym. The problem is that most of these spaces were not ready to accommodate double duty. Multifunctional means one area of the home can handle multiple duties, while this sounds great, no one wants it to look like it’s a three-in-one, which is where good design comes into play. Selecting furniture pieces that can serve several purposes or planning a layout that can fulfill multiple needs is key to creating a home that suits your family’s unique lifestyle and routine. Let’s discuss what goes into designing these spaces and how you can make the most of the space you have.
Walker WoodworkingDesign is more than just creating a layout that is functional and beautiful; it is about turning a house into a home that has an atmosphere just right for you. A functional home is good, but a home where you feel at home is best, which is the end goal for every designer. One way to have a welcoming environment is to draw inspiration from nature, which is a trend that is gaining momentum in the design world.
Walker Woodworking When you think of a closet, you envision a space within a room that opens with a door. For some, it means enough room to hang up clothes or store larger items. It has, however, evolved to become much more than a mere stash and go-to spot for necessities. From hall closets to pantries to linen and bedroom closets, they serve multiple purposes. Today, it can be a mini dressing room, a place to keep all the kids’ sports equipment, and even a place of meditation ( really, it’s a thing). It is a great way to gain extra storage in the bedroom for personal items and is considered an extension of the home.
Walker Woodworking Are you feeling like something needs to change inside your home? Tired of the same old decor pieces greeting you when you come home? Maybe your taste in style has changed, and you’re looking for a little update? The good news is you don’t have to do a full-blown renovation to achieve your goal; sometimes, it takes a little freshening up to update your home.
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Walker Woodworking