Really clever ideas to make open-plan work for everyone

An open-plan scheme is the natural choice for sociable, modern living, but a free-flowing floor plan requires careful planning and execution to make sure the space really works. From a large, airy hub fit for the whole family to a multitasking studio apartment setup, here's how to master the secret to open-plan design, no matter the size or style of your home.

Design around your daily needs

Before you begin creating your dream open-plan interior, take a moment to consider how you will use it from day to day. Do you want to make the ultimate entertaining space or a relaxing haven for cosy nights in? An open-plan layout can add real wow factor to a home, but remember that the space has to work for you and your lifestyle, too. Understand your main needs and think about how many people will be using each space and for what purpose.

Call in the experts

If you’re planning to knock down walls and create an open-plan scheme in your current home, then you’ll definitely need help making the job a success. Experts will not only be able to complete the work to a high standard, but ensure that load-bearing walls are retained, or reinforced steel joists are installed to support the upper floors of the home. Consider hiring an architect, a builder and a structural engineer, to ensure your open-plan space is not only beautiful, but safe too.

Work around invisible walls

Once you've decided on a layout that works for you and your lifestyle, it's time to think about zones and furnishings. It might sound strange, but visualise the space as a series of rooms. Imagine where walls would be located and use this as a template for arranging your furniture. Assign each space a purpose in order to maximise every inch of your open-plan interior.

Plan it out in advance

Another great way to ensure an open-plan layout will work for you is it plan out furniture placement in advance. If you're planning on moving to an open-plan home, or you're renovating your current property, then sketch out room layouts and map out where your furniture and zones will go. If you already have access to the space, use masking tape on the floor to represent each piece of furniture. This way, you'll be able to see whether each item will fit and how the rooms will work together.

Don't neglect soundproofing

Open-plan living is great, but by removing walls privacy is reduced and noise is amplified. Therefore, soundproofing is the key to a successful design. Opt for soft flooring to minimise noise and incorporate plenty of soft furnishings like heavy curtains and cushions to absorb sound, especially if you have high ceilings that can amplify noise.

Embrace broken plan

If a fully open-plan space seems too extreme, then a broken-plan layout might work better for you and your lifestyle. This semi-open floor plan allows you to break up a large living area with room dividers, furnishings or accessories, like this shelving unit. You can use this technique to define different zones for different tasks to help you make the most of every inch of space.