Where Did Open Floor Plans Come From? 

We’ve been told that open floor plans are the only way to design a modern home. The kitchen, dining, and living spaces should all flow together, right? But have you ever wondered why this trend took over?

Some say open floor plans were made for modern families. Others claim they started with home renovation TV. But let’s set the record straight—this design trend didn’t start because camera crews needed more space.

Open layouts actually date back to mid-century architects like Frank Lloyd Wright and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, who championed simplicity, function, and seamless indoor-outdoor living. Their designs broke away from small, compartmentalized rooms in favour of flowing spaces filled with natural light.

Even before that, historic homes featured grand halls, parlours that blended into dining spaces, and kitchens built for socializing. So, the real question isn’t whether open floor plans are new or old—it’s whether they fit your lifestyle. Do you love the airy, connected feel? Or do you crave walls for sound control and a little separation? There’s no right answer—just what works best for you.

The Case for Open Floor Plans

More natural light – Fewer walls mean more opportunities for windows and open sight-lines.

Feels bigger – Even small homes can feel spacious with fewer walls breaking up the space.

Easier to keep an eye on kids – Parents of young kids often prefer open sight-lines to keep watch while multitasking.

Better for entertaining – If you love hosting, an open floor plan makes sure the cook isn’t isolated in the kitchen while everyone else is having fun.

The Case for Closed Floor Plans 

Less noise & distraction – With walls, you won’t hear the TV blaring from the next room while you’re trying to work or cook.

More privacy – Want to hide the dishes until after dinner? A separate kitchen means less pressure to keep things constantly tidy.

Easier to define spaces – You can dedicate rooms to specific functions, making a home feel cozy and organized.

Better for resale in some markets – In some areas, people want separate spaces—especially in larger homes where open concept can feel too expansive.

Hybrid Layouts: The Best of Both Worlds? 

The good news? You don’t have to choose one extreme or the other. Many new builds are incorporating semi-open floor plans with:

Glass partitions (framed or frameless) allow light to flow but create separation.

Pocket doors disappear into walls for a seamless transition between rooms.

Large Openings & Archways to define rooms while keeping them connected.

Double-Sided Fireplaces that open to two spaces (e.g., living and dining) to maintain connection but define zones.

Built-In Shelving or Cabinetry can act as space dividers without closing off areas.

How to Decide? Try Before You Commit

Not sure which one fits you best? Before making big design decisions, spend time in different types of spaces:
Visit a friend’s open-concept home and notice if you love it or feel overwhelmed.
Cook a meal in a closed kitchen—do you enjoy the separation or feel isolated?
Stay in an Airbnb with a different layout than your own home and see how it feels to live in it.

Because at the end of the day, the right floor plan isn’t about trends—it’s about you.

If you’re designing a new home or renovation, what’s your take—open, closed, or somewhere in between? Drop a comment below and let’s talk!