Many newer homes these days feature open concept floor plans that combine spaces like the living room, dining area and kitchen into one large common area. While open concept designs can make a space feel more spacious and airy, they can also lack defined areas for different activities. Sectionaling off zones in an open concept living room is a smart way to divide up the area for designated uses while maintaining an overall flowing layout. Here are 5 effective ways to do just that without completelywalling off spaces.
Living Area in Blueface House
The spacious living area in Blueface House has a luxurious sectional sofa in royal blue color arranged in a U-shape. The sofa effectively creates a defined zone for lounging and TV watching while leaving the center open. Layering plush area rugs underneath the sofa anchors it in place and defines this as the living space. Continuing the color scheme with curtains and throw pillows helps maintain visual cohesion between the living area and rest of the room. Lighting fixtures like floor lamps placed at the end of the sectional provide task and accent lighting for this portion of the space.
Lounge in parker schnabel house
Parker Schnabel house has an elegant yet masculine decorated living area in his Alaska home. He demarcates a lounge zone using a soft leather sectional sofa in a dark neutral shade. The layout differs from a regular U or L-shape by positioning the sectional in a dramatic curved silhouette against the wall. This distinctive arrangement clearly sets apart the lounge while appearing visually interesting. Built-in cabinetry behind the sofa provides ample hidden storage. Decorative coffee table books, plants and a drinks cart within the lounge define it as a casual seating enclave. Plush area rugs underneath anchor the furnishings in place for a polished look.
Art in Jesse Duplantis House
Jesse Duplantis house has an impressive art collection displayed throughout his expansive house. In the large open concept living area, he sections off a defined zone to properly view and appreciate his artwork. Here, a seating arrangement of loveseats and armchairs faces the curated wall of paintings and photographs. By angling the furniture towards the art gallery portion, it promotes admiring the pieces. Keeping other furnishings like end and side tables bare of accessories within this area maintains focus on the artwork. Track lighting ingeniously directs illumination straight to the art without glare effects. Neutral area rugs differentiate the gallery space from the rest of the room.
Rugs and Furniture Placement
Thoughtful placement of rugs, sofas and chairs can act as invisible dividers. Large area rugs placed beneath a furniture arrangement takes up floor space and separates it from other areas. Positioning conversation groupings, accent chairs or loveseats in separate zones facing each other delineates spaces. Using substantial sectionals in L, U or curved shapes that connect to walls helps box off defined lounging areas. Angling furniture pieces towards a focal point like a fireplace or TV visually orients specific areas. Contrasting rug colors helps further distinguish diverse seating sections.
Use of Partition Screens
Freestanding room dividers or partition screens provide portable zoning without permanent construction. Screens can be installed on castors for easy maneuverability. Opt for designs with open latticework that maintain visual flow while partitioning. Floor to ceiling tri-fold screens elegantly divide an open layout into discrete lounging nooks. Mounted wall dividers separate areas while allowing light to permeate both halves of the room. Staggered panel dividers provide pocketing for artwork, plants and accessories while defining an alcove within a large space. Consider materials like wood, metal, paper or fabric for screens to match overall interior aesthetics.
Built-In Furniture Features
Built-ins not only optimize storage but also help section off functional zones. Hideaway murphy beds or fold-out trundle sofas convert vacant wall spaces into guest sleeping areas. Media units, window seats or banquettes fitted beneath large architectural windows form reading niches. Fitted cabinetry featuring open shelving and hidden cabinets behind reception desks, bar stations or home offices demarcates professional hubs. Cantilevered floating shelves or paneling delineates living, dining or breakfast zones while maintaining open sightlines. Ingeniously designed built-ins capitalize on architectural details to establish designated spots without interrupting visual continuity.
In summary, there are many clever furnishings and design strategies to thoughtfully break up a large open concept living area into clearly defined zones without using permanent walls. Sectionaling maintains a flowing floorplan while promoting diverse activities. Layering rugs, placing furniture groupings and using partitions provides invisible divisions through human-centric living arrangements. Integrating built-ins capitalizes on peculiar space attributes to establish distinct locales within a cohesive overall design aesthetic.