Guide to Zoning an Open-Plan
Open-plan living has one a sought-after feature in modern homes and it still has its place in spatial flow design. Whether you’re working with a period property that’s been opened up, or a contemporary new-build apartment, the beauty of an open plan is its flexibility. But with flexibility comes challenge: how do you create flow and function without the comfort of solid walls? That’s where zoning comes in.
As an interior designer, I often work with clients who love the sense of space, but struggle with making it feel purposeful and cosy. Zoning is the key to unlocking the best of both worlds.
What is zoning?
Zoning is the art of defining different areas within a larger, open space, without resorting to walls or doors. It allows you to create pockets for dining, relaxing, working, or entertaining, all while maintaining the airy, connected feel of open-plan living.
Think of it as creating invisible boundaries that guide how the space is used, and how people naturally move through it.
Why zoning matters
Functionality – Each area has a clear purpose, making your home work harder for you.
Flow – Good zoning ensures that movement feels effortless, without bottlenecks or awkward layouts.
Atmosphere – Subtle changes in design create intimacy and comfort, even in large, open rooms.
Flexibility – Spaces can evolve with your family’s needs, from play corners to home offices
Space (and What is Broken Plan?)
Broken-plan living: a softer alternative
In recent years, many homeowners have embraced broken-plan living as a way to balance openness with definition. Unlike traditional open-plan layouts, broken-plan introduces subtle divisions—such as half walls, Crittall-style glazing, shelving, or changes in floor level—that allow light to flow freely while carving out distinct zones.
It’s a clever way of zoning that provides a sense of privacy and cosiness, without closing spaces off entirely. For example:
A glazed partition can separate a study nook from the living room while keeping sight lines open.
A split-level floor can define a dining area, giving it a sense of occasion.
A double-sided fireplace can act as a divider between seating and dining zones.
Broken-plan design is especially useful in busy family homes, where multiple activities happen at once. It gives each area a sense of identity while keeping everyone connected.
Practical ways to zone an open-plan (or broken-plan) space
Use furniture to define areas - sofas, armchairs, and console tables can act as subtle dividers. A well-placed sofa, for example, creates a natural boundary between a living area and a dining zone—without blocking movement.
Rugs as anchors - a rug does more than add warmth—it visually anchors a zone. Use them under dining tables or seating arrangements to ground the space.
Lighting for atmosphere - pendant lights over a dining table, a floor lamp by a reading chair, or recessed lighting in the kitchen all help establish distinct moods within the same space.
Play with floor levels and finishes - changes in flooring, ceiling height, or wall finishes can signal a shift in function. In broken-plan layouts, this is often combined with screens or partial partitions for even greater definition.
Colour and texture -introducing different (but complementary) colour palettes or materials for each zone helps differentiate areas while maintaining cohesion.
Storage as dividers - open shelving or cabinetry can separate zones without blocking light, offering both function and structure.
Balancing flow and function
The secret to great zoning lies in balance. Each area should feel distinct, but not disconnected. Whether you lean towards pure open-plan or broken-plan living, the aim is always to maintain a sense of flow.
For example, in a kitchen-dining-living space, think about the ease of moving from kitchen to table, or from sofa to garden doors. Flow should feel effortless, while each zone still serves its purpose.
Final thoughts
Zoning is one of the most powerful tools in interior design for open or broken-plan living. It brings clarity, comfort, and elegance to what might otherwise feel like a cavernous space. Done well, it balances function with atmosphere and creates a home that adapts beautifully to both everyday family life and entertaining.
If you’re considering opening up your home—or if you already have an open-plan space that feels a little undefined—we would love to help you design zones that bring out its very best. Please contact us for more information