Open-plan living has been a popular trend for decades. But it’s not always the best choice. While large, multifunctional rooms can be light, fluid and sociable, this style can feel cold and very public – as many people discovered during the pandemic. ‘Broken-plan’ living helps to adapt an open plan space to better suit your needs.

Broken-plan living uses the wall-free structure of open-plan living, but with other methods to divide the space up into smaller segments. It allows for the benefits of open-plan living such as natural light and versatility, but combats the lack of privacy and cold feel. By creating smaller, functional pockets of space, the room feels less oversized and exposed.

Even on a slim budget, broken-plan living can be achieved in a variety of ways. You can even use a variety of these methods within the same room.

Floor-to-ceiling glass doors are an excellent way to preserve the natural light of an open plan space while retaining privacy and peace.

Opaque pocket doors can be a more costly option, but they allow you to convert between open-plan and broken-plan living at will. These doors slide away into walls, completely out of the way.

If your budget is smaller, curtains and screens will help divide up the space while still being mobile.

Installing a double-sided bookshelf in between spaces maintains the accessibility of an open-plan space. Larger pieces of furniture can reduce noise while providing functionality. This could be used for plates, keeping them accessible between a kitchen and dining room.

A variety of smaller, functional spaces can make the room feel like a completely different place depending on where you sit. For example, an armchair in its own corner with a lamp can create an intimate reading environment completely separate from the rest of the world, let alone the rest of the room.

If you’re looking to divide your open-plan space into broken-plan living, InteriorNet has a search tool that can match you with the right interior designer to help you. Our network of interior design companies and freelancers operate throughout the UK and work to a variety of budgets and styles.

Every single designer is vetted to ensure a high-quality experience. Simply pop in your requirements then let us find up to five suitable candidates.