Costco Connection | August | Special Section | In the zone
© BMAK / STOCK.ADOBE.COM
In the zone
Dividing an open living room into smaller spaces
by MALI ANDERSON
Large floor plans are great for hosting gatherings, but if you have an open-concept living room, you have likely thought about creating functional areas for daily dining, work and/or lounging.
Designing different zones means selecting areas for certain activities. So while an open space may include both the living room and dining area, visual breaks using color, flooring and furniture will create intimate, functional zones within one united space.
“Open bookcases or shelving pieces are a great way to designate space in a multi-use room,” says Costco member Angela Harris, CEO of design firms TRIO and Bode & Well in Denver, Colorado. “Careful styling of these pieces creates a unique space where you can highlight books, collections and photos. Bookcases can act as a barrier to enclose a particular area of a room [for] a cozy reading nook or a creative workstation.”
Although open spaces feel large, they can fill up fast. Plan ahead and consider how much space each zone will use. For example, a corner sectional provides plenty of comfy seating, and a rug can visually anchor that area. Then, a partially enclosed nook can be used as a work or study space.
Naturally, your choices will depend on the overall space you have. Large living zones may have enough space for a substantial sectional with a matching ottoman that doubles as storage for pillows and blankets. If space is tight, a recliner sofa, a distinctive coffee table and accent chairs with a pop of color could be the perfect solution.
Choosing an overall monochromatic scheme while using different tones of the hue in each designated zone is an effective choice for an open-concept space. Textured pillows, heirloom pieces and works of art add interest and depth.
Natural light brightens rooms, but “look for lighting options that add warmth to your space without being too harsh,” says Harris. “Invest in quality LED bulbs, and opt for plug-in pendants or sconces if you need additional lighting in larger rooms.”
Maintain the flow
Follow these tips to create flow in your living space:
- Create paths. To be sure each zone is accessible, create walkways that are at least 3 feet wide so you can move between zones with ease.
- Capture light. Mirrors and other reflective surfaces brighten living areas and create an illusion of a larger room or space.
- Clear sightlines. Avoid pieces that are visual obstacles. Smaller drink cabinets, sideboards and console tables allow views to remain open.—MA
Costco Connection: A variety of furniture, such as couches and sofa tables, are available in Costco warehouses and at Costco.com.
Costco member Mali Anderson is a freelance writer based in Chicago.
