Unpopular opinion: open-concept interiors and rash decisions
(5 min read) Open concepts seem to be all the rage in this self-isolation day and age. A simple room makeover and knocking down a wall or two can really do miracles for your mood, but is it really worth it? You’re not going to rebuild that wall you just demolished afterward, so you better be sure because the open concept is a pretty permanent space “solution”.
Lol. Jeez SOMEONE is passive-aggressive, huh? You can already tell my stance on open spaces just by reading that 3-sentence long intro. Oh well, you know how we roll around here, It’s either honest and on point, or nothing at all. You’re probably wondering: “Why, oh, why doesn’t she like open-concept interiors? Here is my point of view…
First of all, what is the reason for open concept interiors to become all the rage right NOW? Well, people are simply sick and tired of their respective house and apartment interiors. Most of us can’t wait to go outside and walk freely, and that is a perfectly sensible feeling. However, is it sensible to start knocking down walls just because we are eager for some open spaces?
Keep in mind that every wall had a purpose when space was originally built and you bought it like that because that is how you liked it before this whole pandemic started. Some of those walls are doing the not-so-little job of holding up the roof and people call them load-bearing for a reason. Needless to say, you will need a detailed plan on how you’ll replace that essential structural element you now want to remove. This requires a word with an expert, which goes under “additional expenses”, not to mention further costs that the replacement will entail.
One of the major downsides of open concept interiors is also heating. I know the summer is approaching and who cares about the heating right now…Well…You have to think about the future. Unless you have loads of cash to pay some huge heating bills, you better rethink knocking that wall down.
So, you’re still dreaming of open space, huh? Okay. Scratch those two snugly rooms you have. Now subtract 25% (loose estimate) of the feeling of privacy. Done? Now add noise. Yep. You now have just one big room. You can no longer chill alone in a room, you can’t shut the door and shut out unwanted sounds, and on top of all that you are now — cold…lol
If your home is older, did you do the research about what lies underneath your wall? What is it filled, with? What is it painted with? Old newspapers? Lead paint? Asbestos? How about those vintage floorboards you love so much? How will you match everything now that you are missing a 25 cm wide stripe where the wall used to be? Add that to your expenses too.
So, take your time and think about what you’re about to do. Don’t make a rash decision just because you can’t go out at the moment. Once this whole pandemic passes (*holds fingers, prays silently), you want to have fun and enjoy, not regret the decisions you’ve made during the pandemic. If you are hungry for some open spaces and the world in general, add a gorgeous landscape mosaic to your wall. Let that be that one decision you will never regret.
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45 Comments
I love an open concept. But I think it’s mostly because I’m a photographer and often have to take photos indoors. I need all the natural light I can get.
I love all the styles here, so elegant.
I honestly love an open concept interior. I would want a floor to ceiling glass window. However, it is of course not advisable in a very hot area like our tropical country. I guess the curtains can do the trick. Or blinds. I like the points that you have raised for the pros and cons.
A landscape mosaic sounds nice. This pandemic is really having an effect on us, with everyone wanting open spaces haha.
Such lovely interiors! I would love to get inspiration here soon!
heating is always an issue with open spaces. I love my living cool and comfy at all times so I pleased with it but sometimes during the winter I find it annoying to get an extra layer to welcome guests or watch a movie
I love walls! Separate spaces and creating disparate environments is where it’s at for me. Plus, if you’re living with others, a little absence makes the heart grow fonder.
all these homes are so stunning, im in the middle of doing mine and I love hwo much fun it is!
As always, this is so helpful! Part of my home is open concept, so I totally appreciate this post.
These are very interesting thoughts about open spaces and tearing down walls. I was tempted many years ago to tear down some walls but now I am glad I didn’t. With everyone at home, it is nice to have some privacy.
I love anything open concepts and I hope they never go out of style! It’s just so nice to feel open in a house.
It is nice to have an open floor plan. We ripped out some walls in our home so that the floor plan would be more open, and we have enjoyed the result.
I am a big fan of open plan living spaces, I think they add so much light and space if it’s in the right home. Loving the first photo!
I am loving all of these beautiful spaces as they are all tastefully put together. I especially love the rustic wood kitchen with the brick firplaces at the end. Very cool!
Wow this is really nice, looks lovely open concept interiors.
Don’t you think that the homes in the photos would look so much better with mosaic art on them, too?
So relatable, my older sister almost did this exact thing last July because she felt too confined and claustrophobic. She didn’t do it though because she came to the conclusion she just needed to find other things to do. Thanks for sharing!
I like all the interior designs. My fave is the morn sleek design.
For me, the idea of an open interior is really nice because you get to see everything that’s happening and even if family members are in other parts of the home, you can see each other. It makes you feel closer.
I had been searching for open designs and they are wonderful!
Loving all of the wonderful rooom pictured above,. The designs are nice and I am especially. Fan of the Scandinavian Design. I would add a plant or two for some pops of green bout otherwise love it as is.
These homes are so pretty!!! I love open concept so much when I build my own house own house one day I totally want to do it
Oh wow! The designs are all so elegant! Saving this inspirations!
I just love open space homes. Very bright and Airy.
I was contemplating about getting an open space design but I totally agree with the disadvantages you mentioned. Privacy is one and yes, electricity consumption is another. 🙂
I love an open concept ideas.Such s beautiful images.Thanks for sharing with us.
I love open-concept but I have since long before the pandemic. I purchased my open home 6 years ago. I don’t think it has anything to do with the pandemic because open-concept has been popular long before this. And heating isn’t an issue in the south but we have to watch our air conditioning bills and open-concept allows the breeze to go through the house if we open the windows.
I love open space homes; I must save this blog post to get inspiration!
I love open spaces, the larger the better. They look so good and can be rearranged easily to create a new look.
I am so with you there! Open space is the trend now but it does not fit all homes or spaces. If you live in a cold country then you also need to think about the heating bills as well
I love the look of all of those! I wish my house could have an open concept, but the layout is not conducive to that. Even with walls taken out, still wouldn’t be very open. lol Maybe someday with a full remodel!
I like open-concept homes. They feel so free and light. It’s a challenge to make sections work, but it pushes you to be more strategic, and simple.
I read an article recently that said people are actually getting tired of their open concept homes. They want their walls back. It’s exhausting to keep everything so neat and tidy, because an open concept layout tends to expose every nook and cranny of the home.
I love open concept interiors! Especially with big windows!
Amazing design for all spaces. I love a well design ed and organized living space ad the kitchen is for sure my favorite room in the home 😉
I like open concepts of common areas, maybe because I live in a big house with a lot of walls.
But of course, your thinking is very interesting and backed up by facts.
Friendly greeting,
Nina
I love open plan, more so because of myself & my sons disabilities (his from birth mine recently). We’re considering moving hole to somewhere more open, although it’ll need to be single storey too
Love the wonderful open floor concept. Looks very elegant.
I love open concepts on select areas of the home. The kitchen for one. But definitely agree with you on the heating aspect. It is so hard to get everything warm in the winter!
Open concept really stands out!
I love open spaces and all of these are amazing, I would love to have one of them in my office at work
I personally love the open spaces! It brings more light into the room and can completely transform the area. These are some beautiful design ideas.
Such gorgeous photos! My maternal uncle always believed in open concepts and he owns a beautiful house too based on open concept interior design! Love visiting his house.
I didn’t know that the open space concept is the rage NOw. I thought it was a few years ago since the office here in Japan went for that idea in the workplace.
I love the open concept but have never really been able to stick to it. I seem to fill up every space I get.