An open concept floor plan combines traditional separate rooms like the kitchen, dining and living room, into one large space.
When working with our Architectural Technologist to develop your home/cottage design, you need to consider whether you want an open concept or not. There is no right answer; it is always about what works best for you and your lifestyle. These pros and cons will help you decide what is best for your specific build.
Pros
1. More Natural: With fewer walls comes more sunlight flowing freely throughout the space.
2. Better Social Interaction: Perfect for entertaining. People in different areas of the home can still interact with others easily.
3. Flexible Layout: Without walls, furniture and decor can be arranged more easily. You have more freedom to make the space more personalized.
4. Modern: Open concept designs are more contemporary and the preferred style in newer builds.
5. Real Estate Value: Open concept floor plans often increase the value of the home due to desirability.
Cons
1. More Noise: Without walls, noise from appliances, TV, kids or others in the home carries more easily throughout the space.
2. Harder to Heat or Cool: Large open areas can be less energy efficient, especially with high ceilings.
3. Clutter Stands Out: Due to everything being visible, it is harder to keep the space looking and feeling tidy. You would need to get creative on where you will hide smaller items so as not to stand out.
4. Potential Design Challenges: Defining separate areas (like the living room, dining room, office, etc) can be difficult and require creative use of furniture and accessories to best define the spaces.
Written by: Reenie Brydon, January 2026
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