Do you have an open plan space that's begging for a makeover? We feel you!
Designing these sprawling areas can be a puzzle, but fear not, at My Bespoke Room we have designed 1000s of open spaces and our designers have the insider scoop on how to create your dream open plan space.
Open plan colour schemes
Deciding on a colour scheme for your open plan space is crucial, especially when it comes to creating cohesion (but more on that later).
As always, our top tip for colour schemes is to select hues that resonate with your preferences. And try to aim for colours within the same family that harmonise well together.
Let's take a look at some ideas on the colour scheme front.
Keeping it neutral
Going neutral in large spaces is never a bad idea!
It acts as a great backdrop, allowing you to add colour through other aspects such as artwork or furniture.
A neutral, monochromatic scheme, like the one above, is totally timeless and has the added benefit of being completely cohesive.
Even though the main palette is simple, excitement is then added through patterns in the soft furnishings and pops of colour from the house plants.
Going bolder
If you want to go a little bolder with your colour choices, we suggest doing it more subtly through the use of feature walls and décor.
A dark feature wall can help you zone off an area and make certain sections of the open space feel cosier.
Bold shades such as deep blue or dark green are a great way to inject personality into the space - just remember to introduce some lighter shades which will help to bounce that beautiful natural light around the room.
Creating cohesion
If you’re tackling an open kitchen-diner and living room, you may understand the struggle of making the spaces match without everything looking too matchy matchy.
Our number one Interior Design tip for creating cohesion is having what we call a 'common thread' throughout the space.
To achieve cohesion in your design, focus on what we call a "common thread" running throughout the space.
This could be a dominant colour, like green, which you can feature on walls, in statement furniture pieces (think sofas or cabinets), or through finishing touches like artwork or ornaments.
Another way to create a harmonious look is by using the same flooring throughout the whole space or repeating similar patterns and materials.
Lighting open plan spaces
Ambient lighting is perfect for living and dining rooms, however, task lighting is perfect for the kitchen - so how do you pull the two lighting styles together?
In an open room, you want to give yourself as many options as possible. Combining ceiling fixtures with wall, floor and table lamps will allow you to adjust your lighting throughout the day and create a stunning layered lighting scheme.
To prevent light pollution in an open plan space, opt for adjustable or directional lighting fixtures. These allow you to control where the light is directed, minimising unnecessary spillage into other areas.
If your open space is lucky enough to boast a stunning skylight or floor-to-ceiling windows, make sure to maximise that light and ensure you don’t block it with any furnishings.
Zoning open rooms
With strategic placement of furnishings, you can divide the different spaces and make them feel like their own rooms.
Rugs are a great way to do this as they add comfort to your space and soundproof the room, all while dividing off the area.
Paint hacks can also help you to zone off separate areas by using feature walls to draw your eyes into certain parts of the room.
Finally, if you’re still in the planning stage of an extension, consider half walls that will divide up the space and act as a backing for your furniture, while still maintaining an open and airy feel.
Furniture choices and layouts
In large, open rooms, you don’t want your furniture to feel like it’s drowning in space.
It’s always best to double-check proportions to strike the right balance – not too small, nor comically oversized.
These pieces of furniture are a great way to divide up a room. You can use the back of your sofa as a mini wall to block off the living room from the kitchen or dining space.
The same concept can be used with storage cabinets or bookshelves - try testing out multiple layouts on paper and you may be surprised by how many different ways you can use the space!
Want a professional’s eye on your open plan space? At My Bespoke Room, we’re here to help! Our all inclusive design package can transform your room in just 3 weeks - get in touch with one of our experts today.
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