What is a Semi-Open Floor Plan?

An open-concept kitchen is beloved for a lot of good reasons, but for some people, an open-concept floor plan does not meet their lifestyle choices. While an open concept is still a popular option, there is a growing trend toward the semi-open floor plan. A semi-open floor plan can be almost anything. This type of interior design makes use of several clever design tricks to give some separation between your living spaces, while maintaining a sense of openness.

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Levels are one way to create separation, and open shelving can be installed as a type of room divider. Interior designers often use architectural features like interior windows and half walls to give a sense of separation while still allowing a view and letting natural light sources flood the living space.

Let's look at how the growing semi-open floor plan trend is a viable alternative if a fully open floor plan won't work for your family.

The Pros and Cons of a Semi-Open Floor Plan

Like any interior design trend, the semi-open floor plan offers pros and cons. It really comes down to your style and your family's functional needs. While an open floor plan works in most homes, some homes do not lend themselves to this option. This is where designing a semi-open style can really fly! Here are a few of the pros and cons to consider before remodeling.

The Pros

An open floor plan design can be too open for some families. A semi-open floor plan offers the best of both worlds, feeling cozier than a fully open space. A semi-open floor plan gives you some privacy, with quieter nooks and crannies built away from the larger living spaces. Also, lighting and ventilation are easier to control and more efficient than in a closed floor plan.

The Cons

While a semi-open floor plan offers more privacy than a fully open space, there isn't as much privacy as a fully closed floor plan. Creating the perfect semi-open floor plan requires a significant creative effort. Working with a professional design-build-remodeler can help you to develop a viable and functional semi-open floor plan. Adding design elements like split levels, half walls, and interior windows can be expensive.

Is a Semi-Open Floor Plan Right For Your Home and Lifestyle?

Ultimately, this is the question. Whether an open, semi-open, or closed floor plan works for your home, family, and lifestyle ultimately comes down to your family's specific needs and lifestyle. While an open concept looks good on paper, here are some reasons to consider creating a semi-open floor plan for your family.

• Wall Space For Art – Do you love displaying family photos or meaningful artwork? A lack of walls means less space for displaying treasured items. Half walls, pony walls, and shelving can give you the space you need.

• Sound Carries – In an open concept space, sound carries. For example, if your oldest is sitting on the family room couch watching TV and your youngest is doing homework in the kitchen, an open concept makes this challenging.

• Climate Control – Maintaining a comfortable climate throughout your home can be difficult in an open space, especially if you enjoy high ceilings.

A semi-open floor plan addresses each of these concerns. A semi-open floor plan uses some design tricks to give some separation to your rooms while maintaining an overall open feeling. For example, using shelving to separate spaces when hiding an unsightly area, like a messy kitchen. Other options for creating a semi-open space include adding a formal dining room and separating the space with French doors, pocket doors, or sliding barn doors. With this design, you can open the space when needed and close it off when not in use. This can save you on heating and cooling costs as well.

It really comes down to your family's specific needs and style. The best option is to talk with your design-build professional to create a floor plan that works for you. It can incorporate elements of both an open and closed floor plan to create a perfect balance to meet your needs.

Are you considering a home remodeling project? Let us help you create a stunning semi-open floor plan design to meet your family's unique needs! If you live in the Greater Madison area, call the experts at Degnan Design-Build-Remodel at (608) 846-5963. We can take your home to the next level of comfort, design, and function! Ready to learn more? We're always happy to answer your questions.