Designers Say Closed-Concept Layouts Are Making a Comeback

Many people admire the allure of open-concept layouts, often considered a hallmark of a modern interior. But, as a home editor, I’m noticing more designers lean into closed-concept floor plans — a trend that ties hand-in-hand with the desire for personalized interiors (and the downfall of minimalism). Think of it this way: It’s easier to go bold in the dining room, when it’s not attached to the kitchen or part of your home office.

To feed my curiosity about the rise of closed-concept floor plans, I reached out to 11 interior designers and overwhelmingly, they all agreed: Homeowners are embracing closed-concept layouts.

In the years following the pandemic, people continue to spend more time at home. They crave personalized spaces that reflect their lifestyle and they’re turning to closed-concept floor plans.

“Open-concepts have lost their luster a bit with clients,” says interior designer Allison Handler. “People want more designated spaces, with specific purposes, rather than just designated areas of a larger room.”

Don’t worry: The open-concept layout isn’t dead (we’ll dive deeper in a few), but designers are seeing a clear shift. When asked whether homeowners are seeking closed-concept layouts, here’s what the pros had to say:

• “Yes! Across the board, we are finding that homeowners need separate spaces to break up and silo different functions of the home.” — Dan Mazzarini, principal of BHDM Design and ARCHIVE
• “Absolutely! Clients are requesting closed-concept layouts, or hybrid spaces, that offer flexibility to close off certain areas when needed.” — Danielle Chiprut of Danielle Rose Design Co.
• “Yes. While open concepts remain popular, many homeowners are recognizing the benefits of having more defined rooms.” — Krystal Reinhard of Old Soul Design Studio
  

Why do homeowners prefer a closed-concept layout?

Designers find homeowners are leaning toward more traditional, closed-concept floor plans. Here’s why:

There’s more design versatility.

Closed-concept interiors can lead to major design moments. “With one big space, you only have one design move. With smaller spaces, you can have a bit more fun,” says Kevin Kaminski of Kaminski + Pew. Think floral wallpaper in the dining room, green cabinetry in the kitchen and a dark, moody living room.

“The opportunity to bring different design aesthetics into each room allows us to make spaces feel really unique and personal,” adds Victoria Armour, co-owner of Stil James. “In a closed-concept layout, each room can have its own personality, empowering our homeowners to make bolder choices that could feel overwhelming in an open floor plan.”

Not to mention, “more wall space allows for built-ins, art displays and other design elements that might not work as well in an open-concept space,” according to Gideon Mendelson, founder of Mendelson Group.

Individual rooms feel cozy and private.

A closed-concept layout creates designated zones, giving each room a distinct purpose and function. Imagine this: The kitchen is intended for cooking, the living room is designed for relaxation and the playroom is reserved for quality time with family.

Especially among families with children, homeowners want to close doors and step into private, personal spaces. And for those who work from home, “the ability to close an office door helps keep work life separate from personal time,” says Hillary Cohen of HCO Interiors.

There’s less noise.

With walls to absorb sound, open-concept layouts can feel loud and echoey. Homeowners often complain about the noise and distraction of a large, open area. “By creating closed spaces, it’s more difficult for sounds and noise to travel between rooms,” says Mark Schubert, founder of Phillip Harrison Interiors

It’s easier to stay organized.

Another disadvantage of open layouts is that all of your belonging are on full display, which can make it difficult to stay organized and clean up when expecting guests.

“Even though the open concept is touted as effortless, in reality, it means everything in your whole house needs to be put away for it to look presentable,” says Peter Spalding, co-founder and chief creative officer of Daniel House Club. “Walls mean some rooms can be closed off when visitors come.”

Are open-concept spaces going out of style?

Short answer: No, open-concept layouts are still popular. “While open-concept layouts won’t disappear entirely, more people are starting to recognize their limitations,” says Chiprut, who sees the trend moving toward balance, where open spaces coexist with closed rooms.

Designers say closed-concept layouts aren’t taking over completely — there’s an evolving preference for flexible layouts that can incorporate both open and closed elements. For example, expect to see media rooms, playrooms and home offices tucked behind doors. There’s also the option of pocket doors or archways for flexibility.

“The trend has gone more to a semi-open concept rather than fully open or closed,” says Handler. “In this concept, the rooms are clearly defined and separated, but still opened with no doors, just trimmed openings to separate them.”

Source: Home Ideas - goodhousekeeping.com