Honestly, I used to think open concept was just a trend, but after living in one for a year, I’m actually a fan. Yeah, it gets noisy sometimes, but that’s what rugs and soft furnishings are for—makes a big difference with sound. And as for mess, I find it keeps me tidier since there’s nowhere to stash clutter out of sight.
I get the privacy thing, especially with kids or if you’re on Zoom calls all day. But for me, the extra light and space outweighs the downsides. If you really need a quiet spot, you can always carve out a little nook or use bookcases as dividers. Old layouts are cozy, sure, but sometimes they just feel cramped. Guess it depends on your lifestyle and how much chaos you can handle!
If you really need a quiet spot, you can always carve out a little nook or use bookcases as dividers.
- Totally agree on the light and open feel—makes winter less gloomy, for sure.
- On the noise front, I’ve found adding some recycled denim insulation in the ceiling helps more than any rug (sounds weird, but it works).
- Plants are my go-to for softening sound and breaking up space. Plus, they eat up some of that echo.
- I do miss having a door to close sometimes. Especially when someone’s blending a smoothie during a call... not ideal.
- Old layouts = cozy, but yeah, sometimes you just want to stretch out without bumping into a wall every five steps.
Honestly, the smoothie blender is my nemesis during Zoom calls—noise travels like it’s auditioning for a role in surround sound. I’ve had decent luck with heavy curtains as quick “walls” too, especially if you can’t do construction. Also, if you’re open to a little DIY, sliding barn doors are a lifesaver for closing off a section without losing the open vibe. Plants are a must, but I always forget to water them... so fake ones in the mix, no shame.
“noise travels like it’s auditioning for a role in surround sound.”
- Acoustic panels are a game changer—stick-on foam ones aren’t pretty, but you can cover them with fabric for a custom look.
- I’ve used open-backed bookshelves as dividers; they break up space and eat up some sound without closing things off.
- Not totally sold on fake plants, but I get it... I’ve killed more ferns than I care to admit.
- If you’re crafty, try hanging macrame or fabric art as soft barriers. They help with echo and look cool, too.
“noise travels like it’s auditioning for a role in surround sound.”
That line nails it. Open spaces are gorgeous, but sound just bounces everywhere. I’ve had clients swear by heavy curtains—they’re not just for windows. You can hang them as flexible dividers and pull them back when you want the space open again. Rugs with thick pads underneath help too, especially on hardwood. I’m with you on the fake plants... they never look quite right, but I’ve seen some decent ones lately if you’re desperate for a green fix without the guilt.