When you read the descriptions of homes for sale in Markham and Unionville, you’ll see an overwhelming number mention open concept living. While open concept living sounds grand, do you really want it, and do you really need it? Let’s explore.
What is an open concept or open plan?
An open floorplan means that rooms aren’t as divided and basically many rooms are merged to provide you with one, large open space. For instance, many homes will not have walls separating the kitchen, dining and living rooms.
What are the advantages of an open plan?
When a space is wide open, it allows the light to permeate through all rooms. Many find that open concept homes seem brighter. We also know that bright spaces also appear larger, and in an open-concept home, they are, simply because the walls are not there to take up space.
Another important advantage to consider with an open floor plan is the “togetherness factor”. Whether you’re entertaining or just hanging out with your family, you’ll be together regardless of what room you are in. You can still make dinner and engage with your children who are doing homework in the dining room or playing video games in the family room.
What are the disadvantages of an open plan?
Because your space is wide open, you obviously don’t get the separation in rooms that you would if there were walls between them. What happens then is that there may be an excess of noise in each of the rooms. If your living space and kitchen are essentially combined, you may hear all of the noise that typically happens in a kitchen (pots clanging, water running) while trying to relax in your living space.
The togetherness factor may also weigh heavily as a disadvantage as residents of the home may feel they lack privacy or general “space”. Ironically, an open concept living plan may make family members feel like they don’t have enough space.
Although many people are becoming more casual, some don’t like to showcase their kitchen, simply because of the mess that’s in it. With an open space, you can’t hide what’s happening in the kitchen from your guests in the living area. This can also include cooking smells that will definitely be a part of your living space when you have an open concept area including the kitchen.
The same goes with clutter. When you have an open living space, you really need to reduce clutter. Because there is already so much to look at in one large room, you want to keep what you have to a minimum.
Choosing a Markham home with an open or closed living space is a personal decision. If you want to view some homes that will help you make that decision, let’s connect!
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