Finding a home with an open-floor plan – where the living room, dining room, and kitchen are opened up into one “great room” – seems to be the trend these days. If you’re an avid watcher of House Hunters, you’ll notice that an open-floor plan is almost always on a buyer’s “must have” list.
We’re here to break down whether or not an open-floor plan is actually worth all the hype it’s receiving.
Illusion of more space
One of the most important things to a buyer when looking for a home is feeling like they have enough space.
Combining the living, dining, and kitchen areas does exactly that because the end result is really just one huge room.
WINNER: Open-Floor Plan
Lighting
Open spaces let in much more natural light.
Since there aren’t any walls blocking the sun’s rays, you won’t need to install as many lamps in every corner.
WINNER: Open-Floor Plan
Handling Noise and Smell
While open spaces let in a flow of natural light, they also don’t block any noise or smell.
Unfortunately, the scent of tonight’s dinner could fill up the whole house.
WINNER: Closed-Floor Plan
Cleanliness
We all want to think we’re super clean people, but sometimes it’s hard to get all the house cleaning done quickly enough.
You can’t really hide the kitchen sink filled with dishes when it’s all out in the open for everyone to see.
WINNER: Closed-Floor Plan
Privacy
Your roommates might be hanging out in the living room while you’re in the kitchen trying to take a business call.
Sadly, when you consider the way sound travels, you might as well be sitting in the living room with them.
WINNER: Closed-Floor Plan
Family & Friends
Who wants to be away from all the fun of entertaining the guests while you’re making the meal for the night?
With an open-floor plan, a wall or hallway won’t be keeping you from interacting with the group.
WINNER: Open-Floor Plan
Watching the Kids
Being a parent is all about multi-tasking.
It’s so important to make sure that you’re able to keep an eye on the kids while you’re busy in another room.
WINNER: Open-Floor Plan
Artwork, Décor, and Color Scheme
More walls mean more space for artwork and flexibility when it comes to color schemes.
Feel free to set up a theme for each room.
WINNER: Closed-Floor Plan
Summary
Well… there isn’t a clear overall winner because it really just comes down to what you feel is most important to you.
If you’re still looking for the perfect space, whether it’s an open-floor or closed-floor plan, our agents at Platinum would be glad to help you. Get started by calling our office at (212) 825-0050.
Check back soon for our next Platinum Talk!
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