How to Make the Most of an Open Concept Layout

Years ago, open concept layouts were practically unheard of. Every space in the home had its own designated room that was separated from the rest of the home. In recent years, however, open concept layouts have become more and more popular among people who prefer the main areas of the home (living room, family room, dining room, kitchen) to be all open to each other in one large space. This promotes a flow that is perfect for entertaining and large gatherings so everyone is together rather than separated.

There is an art to making the most of these open layouts, but once you figure out how to divide it into conversation areas and get the flow just right, they can be really fabulous spaces. Here are some tips and ideas for taking advantage of all an open concept layout has to offer.

In this angle alone, I can spot three separate seating areas, but they all flow well together: the island, the banquette, and the living area. A banquette is a great way to save space in a small breakfast area like this one.

Area rugs are excellent for defining areas in an open concept layout. This living room could have felt disjointed if it weren’t for the rug.

A console table joins the living room and kitchen areas nicely, while also providing some extra space for decor and storage.

A built-in banquette transitions the kitchen into a dining area by making use of the neutral bar area.

Area rugs define both the living area and dining areas in this big space, but they don’t have to be the same rug. In fact, using two different ones gives each space its own character.

Though this room is huge and open, the cottage and vintage elements give it a charming feel that makes the expansiveness feel cozier.

Stunning arches define each space in this gorgeous open layout full of rich details.

A color on the island helps break up all the white in the space and give the kitchen its own identity, while texture and pattern does the same for the other spaces.

Many open concepts put the back of the couch parallel to the kitchen, but you can get creative and angle the couch, too, to leave it more open to the kitchen’s activities.

The way this layout is set up, everything feels like it is happening in one conversation rather than defined, separate areas, leaving every space open to the other in the way it is positioned.