For years, open-concept layouts were extremely in-demand among homeowners and renters — and for good reason. They allow for communal family living and make it easy for parents to keep an eye on their kids in the living room while they prepare dinner in the kitchen. Entertaining is also a breeze in an open-concept design, since guests almost always gravitate toward the kitchen.
But during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, many people began prioritizing closed floor plans. “It was really loud with every family member home,” Connecticut-based Douglas Elliman agent Jennifer Leahy said. “So having an open-concept kitchen to the living room makes cooking and watching a show an orchestra of crescendo-ing sounds.”
Forgoing the open floor plan has numerous benefits, including privacy, noise reduction, and increased functionality. And for a while, it seemed as though the open-concept design was dying out in lieu of layouts with delineated spaces. But according to experts, the open floor plan is still the most preferred option by buyers and renters looking for their next place.
“My buyers still want an open concept where family and friends can be together in an inviting, cozy setting,” said Indiana-based Sotheby’s real estate, Rebecca Glazier.
This is especially true for compact homes where square footage needs to be maximized. Matt Blake, an agent based out of Colorado, says open-space layouts are more popular in the vacation home market. “Buyers prefer high ceiling spaces as well as ready access to outdoor elements.”
Outdoor space, another feature that became essential during the pandemic, is particularly complemented by the open-concept design. If you’ve got a sliding glass door, it’s nice to be able to open it and let the breeze roll through the entire home, rather than just one room.
“Open rooms are still trending with the openness from large sliding doors and windows,” said Danielle Lacko, an agent in New York. “An indoor-outdoor living room is what I see. We see a lot of people focusing on their entertainment space, such as home bars and outdoor kitchens.”
According to the pros, buyers and renters are still looking for open-concept designs, opting for effortless flow between the living and dining spaces. But just because that’s what’s popular doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the right layout for you. Ultimately everyone’s lifestyle is different. Open floor plans and closed-off designated spaces each have their own set of pros and cons, and homeseekers will need to consider their needs before choosing a place to buy or rent.