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Vent: That 'open concept is always better' advice I got from a blogger | Custom Home Builds - SMM Buzz

Vent: That 'open concept is always better' advice I got from a blogger

I was reading this design blog last month, the one everyone in the custom build forums talks about, and they were pushing open concept so hard for every new build. They said it makes houses feel bigger and connects families better. But I just finished a 2,200 square foot house in Des Moines for a family of five where we kept the kitchen separated from the living room by a half wall and a pocket door. The mom told me last week her kids actually talk to her while she cooks now, instead of just staring at the TV from the open great room. I think this whole open plan trend is great for some, but it kills quiet space and privacy in smaller homes. Anyone else deal with clients who refuse to believe a closed off kitchen can work better?

3 comments

3 Comments

reesea493mo ago

That mom's comment about the kids actually talking to her instead of staring at a screen is the real kicker. Most people pushing open concepts are thinking about resale value or Instagram photos, not how a family of five actually lives day to day. A half wall and a pocket door gives you the best of both worlds, you can close it off for quiet or open it up when you want. Sounds like you actually listened to what that family needed instead of some blogger who probably lives alone in a loft.

aaronclark2mo ago

Building on what you said about the pocket door, I think the half wall is the real unsung hero here. It lets parents see what's going on without the noise bleeding through, which is huge when you have kids who can't be trusted alone for five minutes. Plus you can throw some bar stools on the other side for a quick breakfast spot, so it's not just wasted space. The pocket door is smart too, it slides into the wall and disappears, no door swing to fight with when you want it open. Did the family end up going with that setup?

felix_lane993mo ago

Yeah @reesea49 I actually read something the other day about how open concept houses are a nightmare for families with kids because the noise just bounces everywhere. One architect was saying you basically have to choose between hearing your kids fight over a toy or hearing the TV over dinner, no winning. The half wall and pocket door setup sounds genius, you get the sightlines for keeping an eye on them but can shut it when homework time hits. You nailed it with the blogger comment too, half those design trends come from people who never had to hide from a toddler during a work call.