The Open Concept Kitchen-Living Room Trend Is Fading (Finally)
On 02/14/24 // Lifestyle
Is the open concept kitchen living room trend losing its luster? While once hailed for its functionality and seamless flow, the lack of privacy in open plans is causing homeowners to rethink their design choices.
Open concept is one trend that has enjoyed the spotlight for years. The idea of a vast, airy space where cooking, dining, and lounging seamlessly merge has captivated homeowners and designers alike. But as we embark on a journey to uncover the true essence of minimalism, we must question if the open concept trend has overstayed its welcome.
The classic open plan setup leaves nothing a secret
I for one am glad to see the open concept idea to fade. It originated in the Danish minimalist flavor of functionalism, focusing on having one’s comportment and performance always on display. The idea is that a well-behaved person has nothing to hide, right?
Thankfully, while open layouts still thrive in office settings for good reasons, the desire for intimate spaces within our homes is growing. Some say that this should be attributed to advances in the feminist movement. It is a feminine position to be able to take refuge from endlessly performing and producing. (1)
As walls and partitions make a comeback, we have the opportunity to create personal sanctuaries tailored to our needs. Let’s embrace this shift and reimagine our homes as havens of tranquility and self-expression, where the fading trend of open plans gives way to the power of privacy.
The Fading Trend of Open Concept: Finding Privacy in Functionalism
Join me as we delve into the world of functionalism and discover why privacy is the new luxury.
The Functionalism of Open Plans: Open concept living, born out of the functionalist movement, was initially embraced for its ability to maximize space and foster a sense of togetherness. By removing walls and physical barriers, it created a fluidity that encouraged effortless movement and shared experiences. Open plans became a symbol of modernity and the embodiment of a lifestyle centered around connectivity.
Open concept is what makes minimalist interiors look downright sterile
The High Price of Openness: However, like all things in life, the open concept trend comes at a cost. As the boundaries between spaces dissolve, so does our ability to find moments of solitude and privacy. We find ourselves constantly performing, always aware of the eyes that may be upon us. The allure of retreating to a quiet corner or stealing a moment of peace becomes an elusive dream, trapped within the constraints of an open expanse.
Minimalism can be done in a more intimate way, too
The Office Oasis: Interestingly, the open layout has successfully maintained its popularity when it comes to office designs. The workplace, with its emphasis on collaboration and a different set of social dynamics, finds strength in the absence of walls. But when it comes to our homes, where we seek respite from the noise and demands of the outside world, the open concept trend may no longer be the sanctuary we yearn for.
The Rise of Intimate Spaces: As we yearn for a sense of balance and reclaim our need for privacy, the design world has responded with new possibilities. Enter the rise of intimate spaces within the home. By reintroducing walls, screens, and partitions, homeowners now have the opportunity to create private nooks tailored to their individual needs. These spaces can be cherished sanctuaries, cocooned from the chaos of communal areas and offering a haven for relaxation, introspection, and self-expression.
Dark colors are always associated with the cozy sanctuary-like spaces.
Embracing the New: The fading trend of open concept kitchen living room opens up a world of possibilities. With the rise of intimate spaces, we can curate our homes to reflect our evolving needs and desires. Let your imagination roam as you envision a cozy reading corner flooded with natural light, a secluded study tucked away from the buzz of conversation, or even a meditation room where tranquility reigns supreme.
Embrace the good feminine energy!
As the allure of the open concept kitchen living room gives way to a growing desire for privacy, we find ourselves at a crossroads. The functionalist concept that once captivated us remains a formidable force in the corporate world. However, as we redefine what it means to live a minimalist lifestyle, the fading trend of open plans allows us to explore new avenues of design and embrace the power of personal space. Balancing connectivity and solitude, let us embark on this journey together and reimagine our homes as intimate retreats, where peace and tranquility coexist with the vibrant rhythms of modern life.
References
(1) Lytken, M. (2013), The Danish School of Interior Architecture: A Visionary Functionalist, a Visionary Aesthete, and their Women Students. Journal of Interior Design, 38: 1-19. https://doi.org/10.1111/joid.12012
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