Open-concept homes have become a popular option for homeowners who want a modern home design. But that Return of closed layout is something interior designers are only too happy about.
Much like the comeback of traditional kitchens, the return of the closed floor plan reflects the desire for a personalized, cozy and practical home, according to designers. We asked designers for their honest opinions on closed-concept layouts versus open-concept layouts. While closed-concept layouts give you the opportunity to compartmentalize certain areas and make bold choices, designers also say open-concept concepts aren't going anywhere anytime soon.
Here's what you should know about the return of the closed concept layout.
Design professionals weigh in
- “Open concepts have lost some of their luster among customers,” say the population. They want more designated spaces with specific purposes rather than just designated areas of a larger room. Allison Handler of Allison Handler Design
- “Overall, we find that homeowners need separate spaces to divide and isolate different functions of the home.” — Dan Mazzarini, Head of BHDM Design and ARCHIVE
- “Customers are demanding enclosed floor plans or hybrid spaces that provide the flexibility to close off specific areas when needed.” — Danielle Chiprut of Danielle Rose Design Co.
- “While open concepts remain popular, many homeowners are realizing the benefits of clearer spaces.” — Krystal Reinhard from Old Soul Design Studio
Why do homeowners prefer a closed floor plan?
Designers are finding that homeowners are gravitating toward more traditional, closed floor plans. Here's why:
There is more design variety.
Enclosed interiors can lead to big design moments. “For a large room, you only have one design step. For smaller rooms, you can have a little more fun,” says Kevin Kaminski of Kaminski + Pew. Think floral wallpaper in the dining room, green furniture in the kitchen and a dark, moody living room.
“The ability to give each room a different design aesthetic allows us to make spaces truly unique and personal,” adds Victoria Armour, co-owner of Stil James. “In a closed floor plan, each room can have its own personality, giving our homeowners the opportunity to make bolder choices that might seem overwhelming in an open floor plan.”
Not to mention, “More wall space allows for built-ins, art displays, and other design elements that might not work as well in an open space,” says Gideon Mendelson, founder of the Mendelson Group.
The individual rooms appear cozy and private.
A closed floor plan creates specific zones and gives each room its own purpose and function. Imagine this: the kitchen is for cooking, the living room is for relaxing, and the playroom is reserved for quality time with the family.
Especially for families with children, homeowners want to close the doors and enter private, personal spaces. And for those working from home, “The ability to close the office door helps separate work life from personal time,” says Hillary Cohen of HCO Interiors.
There is less noise.
Without sound-absorbing walls, open floor plans can feel loud and echoey. Homeowners often complain about the noise and distraction of a large, open space. “Creating enclosed spaces makes it harder for sounds and sounds to travel between rooms,” says Mark Schubert, founder of Phillip Harrison Interiors
It's easier to stay organized.
Another disadvantage of open floor plans is that all of your belongings are on full display, which can make it difficult to stay organized and tidy up when guests are expected.
“Even though the open concept is touted as effortless, what it really means is that everything throughout your home needs to be put away to make it look presentable,” says Peter Spalding, co-founder and chief creative officer of Daniel House Club. “Walls mean some rooms can be closed off to visitors.”
Are open spaces going out of fashion?
Short answer: No, open floor plans are still popular. “Although open floor plans won't disappear completely, more and more people are recognizing their limitations,” says Chiprut, who sees the trend toward balance, where open spaces coexist with closed spaces.
Designers say closed-concept layouts aren't fully taking off – there's a growing preference for flexible layouts that can incorporate both open and closed elements. For example, expect media rooms, game rooms, and home offices to be hidden behind doors. There is also the option of pocket doors or archways for more flexibility.
“The trend is toward a semi-open concept rather than a completely open or closed concept,” says Handler. “In this concept, the spaces are clearly defined and separated, yet open, with no doors, just trimmed openings to separate them.”
Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is Associate Lifestyle Editor for Good housekeepingwhere she covers everything related to living and interior design. Before joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications, among other things ELLE decor, Chairman, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine And LODGING Magazinein addition to creating product copies for private labels such as BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.
Jamie Ballard (she/her) is a freelance writer and editor who covers news, lifestyle and entertainment topics, including sex and relationships, television, movies, books, health, pets, food and drink, pop culture, shopping and personal finance. She contributes regularly Cosmopolitan, Women's Day, Good housekeepingand YouGov, among other publications. When she's not working, she's running, traveling, or scrolling on TikTok. Keep following her Twitter.