The Advantages of Defined Spaces in Residential Design

Open floor plans have been the go-to for years. Knocking out walls lets in more light and air, and makes a great space for entertaining.

But living in one day to day has some drawbacks.

C20 - What You Should Know When You Design Your New Home

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Last updated 28 Oct 2026 · Revision 3 · Free updates for life

Checklist Type: Minor

Form Factor: Fillable, print-ready PDF (A4, 42 pages)

When to use: Design stage: before the plans and specification are finalised and before you sign

A 134-check guide to work through with your designer while the plans are drawn. Settle the block, the sun, the layout, the energy rating, the services and the contract early, so a change costs a redraw, not a variation.

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The Downsides of Open Floor Plans

One major issue is the lack of privacy and noise control. With no physical barriers, noise from one area can easily travel to another, making it challenging for those who want to work or relax in peace. Additionally, the lack of physical barriers can lead to a feeling of being exposed or on display, which can be uncomfortable for some homeowners.

Another disadvantage of open floor plans is that they can be less energy-efficient than homes with defined spaces. Large open spaces can be harder to heat or cool, leading to higher energy bills and a less comfortable living environment. Open floor plans can also present a cleaning challenge. Without walls to separate spaces, dust and dirt can easily spread from one area to another, making it harder to keep everything clean and tidy.

The Return to Defined Spaces

So many homeowners and designers are bringing back defined spaces. They give you more privacy and quiet, they're easier to keep clean, and they let you heat and cool only the rooms you're using.

One solution to the drawbacks of open floor plans is "broken plan" design, which involves creating defined spaces while still maintaining an open feel. This approach involves using partial walls, movable screens, and other creative solutions to create separate areas that still feel connected to each other.

Design smartphone definition — Photo by Edho Pratama / Unsplash

Broken plan designs

Broken plan design gives you zones without losing the open feel. Partial walls or screens can define a living or dining area while still letting light and air flow through.

It can also carve out a private workspace or reading nook within a bigger living area, which is handy if you work from home or need somewhere quiet to study.

It's more flexible, too. Sliding or cavity doors let you open or close a space as your needs change, which suits growing families and people who like to entertain.

Defined spaces also make it easier to incorporate storage solutions into a home's design. With open floor plans, it can be challenging to find space for storage without disrupting the flow of the space. With defined spaces, however, it's easier to incorporate built-in storage solutions that are both functional and stylish.

Practical ways to zone your home without losing light:

Cavity sliders that disappear into the wall when open.

Part-height walls that separate spaces but keep sight lines.

Joinery dividers, like a bookshelf or bench, that double as storage.

A step in the floor or ceiling level to mark out a zone.

Doors that let you zone your air conditioning, so you only cool the rooms you're in. In a Queensland summer, that adds up.

Defined spaces also give you more room to play with colour, texture and lighting to set different moods: a cosy reading nook, a bright kitchen or a moody dining room.

They can help resale value too. Plenty of buyers now want a mix of open and defined spaces rather than one big room.

When you're planning defined spaces, start with how you live.

For example, a family with young children may want to create a play area that is separate from the main living area, while a couple who frequently entertains may want to create a separate dining room or bar area.

Another consideration is the overall flow of the space. While defined spaces can provide more privacy and seclusion, it's important to maintain a sense of openness and connection between different areas of the home. This can be achieved through partial walls, screens, or other creative solutions that allow light and air to flow through the space.

Before You Sign Off Your Plans

When you review your plans, mark where you'll want quiet (study, kids' play, TV) and ask your designer how to separate those zones without losing light.