The Open Floor Plan: Tips for Decorating

Open floor plans are a popular layout when it comes to home design, and it can often be a prerequisite for many homebuyers today. An open floor plan has many perks. It allows social togetherness while allowing individuals to do their own activities. Not only does it make entertaining a breeze but it expands a small space and brings in excellent natural light. If you are not used to having an open floor plan in your home, decorating it can seem a little overwhelming. At Bazaar Home Decorating, we are here and ready to help make decorating easy! 

Establish Designated Spaces 

To start the decorating process, begin with creating individual spaces to break it up. By adding area rugs and grouping furniture together, you will be creating distinct separation while also helping the room feel open. 

A cozy living room with light colored vertical shades over the windows and sliding doors.
Duette® Vertiglide on Sliding Door; Sonnette™ Cellular Roller Shades on Windows

Keep the Room Open 

If you aren’t familiar with an open floor plan, it can seem like the space is bare. You may instinctively add items to make it feel smaller. However, that is not always the best choice. Keep in mind that it is better to keep the open floor plan open. This can be done by making sure that the entire space is easily walkable. This ensures that you and your guests aren’t struggling to maneuver your way around the room. Another great way to keep the room open is by not placing anything in the space that will obstruct sightlines. Making sure the sightline is clear will continue to make the space feel big and will not be overwhelming for your guests when they enter! 

A light colored living room with white Sonnette™ Cellular Roller Shades cascading down the windows at different heights.
Sonnette™ Cellular Roller Shades

A Strong Foundation is a Must 

Consistency is key when it comes to an open floor plan space. Making sure your wall colors and flooring is consistent will create a unified look throughout your space. Not only will it make it look larger, but it will also be visually appealing. 

A lounging area with a square black trim window with Vignette® Modern Roman Shades covering the window.
Vignette® Modern Roman Shades

Create Lighting Zones 

While an open floor plan will have superb natural light due to the additional windows and doors, there are moments when a cozy vibe is preferred. Start by adding well-placed sconces or chandeliers. This type of lighting will help you achieve the cozy feeling you are looking for. 

An eat-in area with two chairs and a modern light fixture. The room has gray Vignette® Modern Roman Shades on windows, Duette® Vertiglide™ on slider in a gray color over the windows.
Vignette® Modern Roman Shades on windows, Duette® Vertiglide™ on slider

Don’t Forget Window Treatments 

Since an open concept joins at least two different spaces together, it is safe to say that each space has its own purpose. Therefore, it may need its own type of window treatment. The coverings that you want in the living room may vary from those in the kitchen or dining room. The good news is that these window treatments don’t have to look the same! You can easily find coverings that complement each other nicely. By keeping this in the forefront of your mind as you start picking out window treatments, it will be easier to make the best decision for your home and your needs. 

A modern living room with Luminette® Privacy Sheers cover the sliding door; Silhouette® Window Shades covering the windows.
Luminette® Privacy Sheers cover the sliding door; Silhouette® Window Shades cover the windows.

Be Energy Efficient 

With the added natural light coming in through the windows and doors, it can also let in a draft or warm up the space to an uncomfortable temperature during different times of the year. With the right window treatments that are energy efficient, you can ensure that you are protecting your interior while making sure that everyone is comfortable. 

Dual long doors with Duette® Honeycomb Shades with TrackGlide™ in white covering the glass on the doors in the living room.
Duette® Honeycomb Shades with TrackGlide™

Let’s Start Now

At Bazaar Home Decorating, we are eager to assist you with the window treatments for your open floor plan! Contact our team today to schedule a FREE design consultation. Our designers are ready to help you find the best solution for your home.