Since the 90s, open-plan living has been the interior architecture we’ve all strived towards – knocking down walls to increase our living space. However, over the last few years, we’ve seen the desire to create separate areas within our homes reappear, but with a modern twist. Now, the key to open-plan living spaces is a “broken-plan interior.”
The premise behind broken-plan interiors is simple − using clever design features you have the concept of open plan but with designated separate areas, that when called for, can be opened up. While it may sound expensive to redesign a whole open plan space, fear not − with clever budgeting and styling you can achieve this interior du jour easily, effectively and most importantly, cheaply.
Use different textures
You can quickly and effectively divide your open living space with the clever use of textures. Designated living room areas should be warm and inviting. In these areas use plush fabrics like a crushed velvet sofa in an opulent color. Large rugs that cover the majority of the floor space should be used, with furniture placed around a central focal point like a coffee table, in a square or U-shape to help create a divide.
A marble countertop in the kitchen and a traditional wooden dining table can help create two distinct areas. However, to ensure the whole space has a cohesive feel, ensure that color palettes remain the same throughout.
Bring the outdoors in
House plants are having somewhat of a moment in the interior world − not only are they great for our health, they’re perfect room dividers.
Using large plants in planters of different sizes strategically throughout the space can help define areas. A kitchen island with a selection of herbs like rosemary, thyme, mint and basil, creates a definitive barrier with the rest of the living space, and helps the eye from wandering.
Similarly, an Alli ficus makes a real statement in a living room space. With long elegant leaves, this plant adds an air of understated glamour, and because of its size, makes a perfect room divider.
Be bold with colors
If you have a large blank canvas, adding bold blocks of color is perhaps the easiest way to section off your interiors. Living room areas tend to be able to take darker and richer tones compared with other spaces, especially if plush fabrics are used. Deep blues and forest greens accented with gold or antique bronze create an opulent space. But, remember to use sharp lines – so painted edges need to be precise – to create the perfect color blocking.
These richer colors from the living space can then be peppered throughout the other areas. For example, in the dining room, a picture wall can be dominated with images using these hues, while kitchenware could be accented to match.
The most important thing to remember is to enjoy each living space, and if it isn’t working for you, change it! There are no hard-and-fast rules when it comes to interiors − it’s all a matter of personal taste!
