Master the art of broken-plan living

PROPERTY NEWS - Open plan-living has become an established trend, primarily because it facilitates a relaxed, harmonious, more sociable way of life. However, with the advent of self-isolation and remote working, the concept of broken-plan design has evolved into one of the biggest interior design trends of 2021.

Says Chris Cilliers, CEO of Lew Geffen Sotheby's International Realty in the Winelands, "No one can deny the benefits of open-plan spaces, which create a sense of sociability, allow for more spacious and bright living areas and enable multiple functions to be performed in the same area."

Cilliers explains the concept: "In a nutshell, broken plan is still an open-concept design, but with the focus on integrated living. You retain the spacious airiness of open-plan living but, through the clever use of the available space and the creation of distinct zones, you allow for more flexible use throughout the day.

"Essentially, you are creating separate personal hubs in your home for working, family time, dining, study and leisure. This also adds visual interest, and enhances the liveable aspect of an open-plan area.

"This can be achieved in a number of ways, including through the use of different floor finishes, split levels, glass partitions and semi-permanent partitions, such as bookcases and screens and even mezzanine levels."

However, simple as it may sound, Cilliers says that there are a number of factors to consider and a few tricks to learn to ensure that the result isn't impractical, disjointed or even unsightly.

Photo: www.yourhomeimprovement.co.uk

One of the main reasons you opted for open plan was for the light, so it's important to try and preserve as much of the same flow of light as possible. And with the room divided into distinct zones for different uses, you can further distinguish each area with its own light source. Think statement lamps or standing lights.

Although a dated concept, they are making a comeback as they are a great way to break up rooms without affecting sight lines and light. Modernise a half wall by making it a statement feature in the room. Paint it a vibrant or contrasting colour, add texture using brick or wood or you can even have it double as a bookshelf.

If you need more privacy or peace and quiet for your work, glass walls are a great way to achieve clear definition while keeping your home bright and spacious.

Last seen in the 1970s, the sunken room is an area of a room that is dug / lowered about half a metre below the rest of the living space. It's ideal for keeping all the kids' toys in one place and also as a TV snug.

Different flooring is great for creating the perception of distinct zones without interfering with the overall flow of the space. For instance, If you have tiling throughout, consider swapping your lounge floor for carpet instead. But if you feel that's too costly or drastic a change, a couple of cleverly placed rugs will do the trick.

Mezzanines are a beneficial way of creating extra room in smaller spaces which would appear very cluttered if you need more than two or three zones. It's also perfect as a work station as it's above the main activity and distractions in the room.

If you think the layout you currently need might be temporary, use portable dividers like screens that allow for constant change depending on the degree of privacy needed. Or you can use furniture items like open shelving, which is a bit less flexible but no less temporary. Indoor plants and even just rearranging the furniture will also help to create separate spaces.

"Essentially, broken-plan design gives you the best of both worlds - all the benefits of open-plan living but with considerably more privacy and functionality," says Cilliers.

"And the best thing about it is that all it really requires is a little imagination. Even a shoestring budget isn't a stumbling block to transforming your living area into a multi-functional live / work / play space."

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