You’ve probably heard the term ‘open plan’ before. Open plan living refers to connecting two or more traditional rooms into a larger space by removing the walls that divide these rooms. While open plan living has been a trend in architecture for many years, an entirely new way of designing spaces has recently entered onto the scene: broken plan living.
What is the difference between open plan and broken plan?
Both open plan and broken plan living are about the clever use of space. Open plan living is intended to combine more than one living space to create a bigger, lighter, and more airy space. The idea behind broken plan living is to keep the open feel of living while creating more privacy in your home.
Broken plan living has all the benefits of an open plan space while giving each space a specific function. When designed effectively, broken plan spaces will still feel open and light while providing more nooks and private areas.
What is the point of broken plan design?
One of the main reasons why people are now choosing broken plan living over open plan living is the fact that it preserves the same flow of light as open plan living. This is done through the installation of internal windows which address the noise dilemma without sacrificing light and keeps a good sense of cohesion between spaces. Skylights provide another way to allow light to reach all areas of your semi-divided living space.
Broken plan living also encourages the creation of more than one social spaces. Partitions, stairs, and changes to your décor can divide spaces into multiple areas to entertain without losing the light and airy feel that open plan living encourages.
Broken plan living is flexible and allows you to create as many or as few divisions between different areas as you would like.
How can I incorporate broken plan living in my home?
Broken plan living is achieved when distinct spaces are created using different flooring finishes, split-levels, and semi-permanent partitions. Creating these partitions could be as easy as introducing bookcases and screens or room dividers. These small divides keep the spacious feel that open plan living has to offer, but also gives a sense of separation and function. This gives the people living in your home their own space and privacy, while still being connected in a common space.
An example of broken plan living that you can introduce into your home would be to take the open plan kitchen and dining room in your home and use glass balustrades between them to reduce sound transference and create a better sense of relaxation. You could also take the more drastic route of knocking down walls between rooms and then using a partial wall to create a cosy area.
If you are looking to embrace open plan living in your home, you’ve come to the right place. At Plan It, we are experts in introducing broken plan living into UK homes by breaking down walls to create a more open space and then designing partitions that provide privacy and prevent sound from travelling. Contact us to get a quote for your new broken plan living space.