Is an Open Floor Plan Really for You?

Tune into just about any home improvement show and you’re bound to hear the terms “open concept” or “open floor plan” at least half a dozen times.  And although this design trend, which first appeared in the 1950s, continues to dominate the remodeling and new construction scene, more and more homeowners are starting to rethink open floorplan living.

Here are 8 good reasons why.

1. Coziness Factor – Even with architectural definition, large open living areas can sometimes feel cold and cavernous.
2. Wall Space – If you like to decorate with paintings, portraits, or any other hanging artwork, a lack of interior walls can make it hard to do so.

3. Storage – Fewer interior walls also can mean fewer closets and less space for bookcases, console tables, and other storage solutions.
4. Décor – If your design style leans toward traditional – like colonial or Victorian – your furnishings and décor may not work well with a more contemporary open floor plan.
5. Cleaning – Not only is cleaning a large open space more time consuming, clear sightlines make it hard to escape the mess and clutter.
6. Construction Costs – Whether you’re building from the ground up or remodeling, an open concept home will generally have a higher construction cost. With fewer interior support walls, you’ll need heavier or steel support beams which can be costly.
7. Noise – Sounds from a combined kitchen, living room, and dining room all intrude on one another which can make watching the game, listening to music, or cooking in peace a challenge.
8. Energy Efficiency – A large open layout is more expensive to heat and cool. And, because they don’t allow for zoned climate control, you’re paying to heat or cool an entire area whether it’s occupied or not.

Planning to remodel or build new? Then clearly you have a lot to think about. So, before deciding on which direction to take, contact Optimum Air for expert advice on the most efficient way to heat and cool your home no matter what design style you might choose. We’ll help you enjoy maximum and affordable indoor comfort, all year long.