Over the past few years, open floor plans have been a popular choice for home layouts. While there are many benefits to having an open layout, such as maximizing space and increasing natural light, there are also drawbacks to consider. Some disadvantages include less privacy, too much visibility, and less formality when entertaining. This has led many families to consider a different option: a broken floor plan. A broken floor plan involves creating zones or spaces within an open concept plan using different flooring, paint, shelving, screens, and other semi-permanent structures. However, this layout may not suit everyone.
One major drawback of a broken floor plan is the issue of noise bleeding between spaces. While it may offer more privacy than fully open floor plans, without soundproofing elements, noise can still echo throughout the broken floor plan. This could be challenging for households where some members work from home or have young children or pets contributing to the noise level.
Broken floor plans can look cluttered and smaller
The flexibility of a broken floor plan may come at an aesthetic cost, as adding furniture and barriers to create separate spaces can make the area appear cluttered. Designers suggest using half walls, partial walls, or full-length bookcases to create the illusion of room separation without cluttering the space. Glass doors can also help create fragmentation while maintaining flexibility.
Another consideration is how a broken floor plan may impact your home’s value. Due to the popularity of open floor plans, potential buyers may be put off by a home that appears cramped due to a broken floor plan. However, it’s important to consider whether you plan to sell your home in the near future and seek advice from a realtor on the trends in your area. If you don’t intend to sell and like the temporary nature of a broken floor plan, it can be a low-risk way to experiment with your space.
