How to zone an open-plan space

Knocking down walls to create large kitchen-living spaces is popular. They create a sense of space and are often brighter, as well as providing the convenience of being able to see small children in a living room while you are cooking. But the downside is that it can lead to the different spaces becoming jumbled. The way to avoid this, while keeping the open-plan space, is zoning.

Install an island or banquette

Adding a mid-height physical division such as an island or banquette seating to the kitchen area can clearly mark out that zone while keeping the open-plan design.

Which one will work best is something you can discuss with kitchen fitters. If you are redesigning your kitchen, get recommendations or search online for what is available in your area. For example, searching for kitchen refurbishment Guildford will give you results like /www.thekitchenrefurbishmentcompany.co.uk/.

Different flooring

Using different flooring in different areas clearly marks them out. A quick way to do this is with rugs – a rug under the dining room table marks it as a different area from the large rug in front of the TV with a coffee table on it.

You can also use different types of flooring such as floorboards or carpet in the living area and tiling in the kitchen. Take a look for ideas on good flooring for a living-room area.

Split-level

This may require more substantial refurbishment work, but having different levels in your open-plan area such as a couple of steps from the kitchen-dining space to the living room gives an appearance of different rooms without the need for walls.

Use furniture

A cost-effective way to mark out areas is to use your existing furniture to mark out the spaces. A sturdy bookcase, cabinet or sofa can all create a long barrier that marks the end of one area and the start of another. If you do this, consider what the backs of these items look like. An alternative is to buy a screen which can create a movable barrier, making your open-plan space more versatile.