Check this project for more divider ideas and how to separate spaces
Open Plan Design in North London
An apartment in Highgate cleverly renovated.
YEAR 2019
SIZE 110m²
CLIENT Julia
YEAR 2019 | SIZE 110m² | YEAR Julia
Design Brief
Ready for a fresh start, the clients decided to renovate their flat. They wished to maximize the space and to get the home they always wanted. When they moved into their new home, they already knew that they needed to change the space to make it work for them. They wanted to create something special for their family.
After our initial meeting, it was clear that they had a strong idea of what they wanted to achieve with the renovation. A big space to spend time with family and friends was a must. For that, an open plan seemed the best solution. They both agreed in the style they wanted to achieve: a contemporary style mixed with cosy and warm elements to create a comfortable environment at home.
Understanding their space, their preferences and personalities, we started working on a mood board that showed initial ideas about the style and the mood we were expecting to achieve for their renovated flat.
Concept Design
Our proposal for the open plan design was the mixture of a Scandinavian style with the touch of luxurious elements. A neutral colour theme will unify the whole apartment.
The renovation consisted of changing the layout of the flat in order to achieve a new open area. This new open area was composed of a big kitchen with an island, a dining area, and living room.
The intention was to keep this area open, but at the same time, having the possibility to separate the living room from the kitchen and dining area when needed. Besides that, the clients wanted to have an extendable dining table to host at least 10 people during weekends and parties at home. These 2 petitions were quite challenging for that space. However, we were positive that we could find a great solution to fulfill their needs.
Making the Most of the Space
Once we came up with a solution, the clients were provided with a detailed floor plan showing exactly how everything would fit and where to put the furniture to make the most of their space.
The shape of the layout and the position of the windows guided the whole open-plan design. The L open shape was very convenient. It provided more intimacy for the living room and a big space to host the kitchen and dining area.
We also included an initial idea of how the materials and textures worked together in their space. They wanted tiles in the kitchen area and wooden floors for the rest of the flat. The proposal consisted of highlighting the kitchen with the tiles and also, lowering the ceiling in the same area. This would help to create a subtle differentiation between both areas.
Versatile Solutions for Versatile Spaces
With the detailed floor plan, they were able to have a better understanding of the space. Together we discussed the different options to achieve the ideas they had in mind.
The key element to be able to separate the living room from the rest was a glass folding panel. These kind of panels are so trendy now, and they also make a great function when well designed. In this case, it was very appropriate. It could separate the living room or create an open plan allowing an extended big table for big dinner parties.
They were excited about all the ideas. However, they wanted to see how it would look and how the design and the glass folding panel would work.
3D Design to Explore Possibilities
With all the ideas, initial drawings, mood boards, and concept design, the planning was ready to go into detail. We started working on the 3D images to be able to see how the distribution, the materials, and furniture worked together.
We always say that the best moment to make changes and to explore ideas is while designing. With our 3D images, our clients are able to see our proposals, make modifications, and explore the best options in detail, always obtaining the perfect design for them. We created some visual alternatives for the kitchen floor and worktops, different furniture options, and some different colours and patterns for the walls.
The Living Room
Separating the living room from the rest with the folding panel brings privacy to that room. It also keeps the light and an openness sensation in the entire space. The living room is a small retreat where the clients could relax reading a book, having a nice chat or watching tv. For that, the living room has 2 different areas. One reading area, with books on hand and direct light to read at night, and one living area with a large sofa and the tv conveniently placed.
The neutral and appealing tones compose the whole design, creating a monochrome home with rich textures and subtle contrast. In the living room, the contrast appears between the bright scene and the dark armchair, folding panel and cushions. At the same time, the golden pendant light and the marble and golden coffee table give sophistication to the design.
The Folding Glass Panel
The glass folding panel not only has a practical function. It works as well as an important beautiful decorative element. It is one of the main elements since it stands out and can be seen from any angle of the open-plan area. Once opened, the folding panel separates the living room from the rest. With this option, the available space for a dining table is 4 comfortably seatings. However, folding the panel, the space gets bigger. This allows extending the table and to host 10 people in the open plan area.
We also thought about the pendant light. To avoid a weird looking light in one of the corners of the table, we came up with an idea. The solution was to add a small hook in the ceiling. This way, they are able to hang the light up in there when they are using the extended table
All the Information to Make it Happen
Another important element of the design in the scene is the bookshelf. It frames the dining table and creates the visual transition between the dining room and the living room. It also adds pops of colour with the books in the open area.
The final result of this design was a practical, contemporary and cozy environment. At the end of the project, we delivered 3D images, drawings, layouts, a furniture list to buy the products online, and all the information they needed to make it happen.
What our clients say about us
“I loved working with Tania. She came out with clever ideas for our space! It was super helpful to get advice from a professional designer before actually making the decision to buy.”
Julia, owner of this property and client of The White Interior
Find Out More
Read more about our residential interior design service or contact us to discuss your project.