Help with open plan layout & also how to decorate bare wall

4 years ago

<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><md>Hi everyone,

A few months ago I’d removed a wall to make the living space more open plan.

We are looking to sell shortly (though still have a lot of work to do), and I was just looking for opinions on a couple of things.

Firstly, I initially thought it would be good idea to break up the different spaces with a bold colour but I’m just not sold on the blue at all (might look a bit better ones I’ve finished the skirtings etc) and I just think it’s a bit too much and was looking to get a few opinions?

Secondly, I much prefer the table by the window (it’s just a nice place to sit) & just some seats in the corner by the fire but my wife seems to dislike it for whatever reason and prefers it as shown in the pictures but she has agreed to bow to popular opinion so I’m hoping the general consensus falls on my side

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PRO

Detail Movement Interiors

4 years ago

last modified: 4 years ago

Hi Richard, I have a different proposition. From what I can see in the pictures, you already have a separate seating area (which I assume is the Living/Lounge area). This blue room would act beautifully as a transition space between the kitchen and living room. It has big windows, loads of natural light and what seems to be a beautiful view of the terrace/garden. That's why, I wouldn't place a sofa there, blocking the access to the garden. Plus, it's a shame not to take advantage of the view (seating with your back to it).

I agree with you that the dining table should go in that area, but more towards the middle of the room (so that you can still access to garden easily). At the same time, I can see why your wife likes to have the dining table in the corner, as it is the shortest way to bring in the food from the kitchen to the table.

So, my proposition is this: have the dining table and the chairs next to the garden doors/windows but leave a room to move and maneuver between the two. In the corner, next to the fireplace, have a shelving unit/joinery and an armchair (equipped with a footstool, floor lamp, side table and a small rug) to create a cosy reading area. This way you can enjoy the fireplace, the gorgeous garden view and create a direct path to walk from the kitchen to the living room (and not have to walk around the dining table to pass). I think it would add more value in the eyes of potential buyers.

As for the wall colour, I don't know what you have in the other rooms, but from what I can see in the pictures you shared, the blue doesn't tie in with anything else (and it's a strong colour that might put some potential buyers off). You could go for a lighter or darker grey, which, in turn, would tie to the kitchen counter and island top (and with the rug if you choose to keep it beneath the dining table and chairs).

|t might look good against the shelving unit (and any accessories/ art frames you choose to place there) and the vibrant yellow/orange colours of the fire (when the fireplace is in use). Also, it's best to keep at least 1m clear in every direction from the fireplace so, having space to maneuver there make more sense.

Hope this is helpful!

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Comments (10)

Richard G
Original Author
4 years ago
Not sure the images uploaded properly so attached them here again
AMB
4 years ago
I agree with you Richard - the dining table and seating need to be swapped. My first thought was that it was a very odd placement. Also, dining tables & chairs pushed into a corner makes the room look cramped and uninviting - not something you want if selling!
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AMB
4 years ago
The blue looks nice and does help to 'zone' the space. You need to accessorise more though - pictures on the wall etc. to give the blue more impact. I would get a much larger rug/get rid of the rug/put the dining table and chairs on the rug. Armchairs and throws are a good idea to get that 'cosy' vibe brought on by the fire and blue wall.
Juliet Docherty
4 years ago
I personally find the blue a bit too saturated. Something blue but duller and slightly lighter may look better. I doubt if it would put people off though.
Richard G thanked Juliet Docherty
Richard G
Original Author
4 years ago
last modified: 4 years ago
Thank you all for the replies - i'll get the orientation switched around and try get another picture uploaded.

colourhappy - on the blue i think that's exactly what i find that it's just a bit too saturated as you say. I'll try accessorize a bit and get some things on the walls and see how it looks though.

Would anyone happen to have any suggestions how to decorate the fireplace wall? It's just feels like an odd space to try fill.

Thanks again for all the input.
Maths Wife
4 years ago
Totally agree with swapping the table over. The seating area will be difficult as it's quite narrow from wall to window and the sofa will probably be too large. It will most likely block the walk way from kitchen to table. Therefore, a couple of small armchairs would probably be better.

Can you draw a sketch and put the dimensions on?
Richard G
Original Author
4 years ago
Thanks so much for all the replies and on the feedback on various points.

We did have the table at the window which I much preferred - below is an image from a few weeks ago with the table by the window and pre-blue paint!

I’ve also attached a sketch of the floor plan, apologies if the dimensions are a bit of a scrawl.

I’m pretty sure the table will stay by the window based on the general feedback so I suppose I was just thinking what kind of furniture might work in the corner near the fireplace?

I think the blue is going to be toned down too!

Thanks again
Maths Wife
4 years ago

The sofa and rug that you're trying to use are just too large for the space.

The dining table needs to go lengthwise in front of the opening to the lounge with a good amount of walk room around it. ( Usually as close to a 1m as you can get it.)

The snug area is good, but the furniture needs to be the right size to go in it. It's fairly small, so a small sofa is called for. Bring the sofa backwards, ensuring that you have an adequate amount of room to walk behind it to and from the kitchen., Tone the blue down to a nice deep restful grey. A good deep colour is restful and great for the snug and dining room. The dark grey also goes very well with your floor. However, a lighter rug will help divide floor and furniture.
Richard G thanked Maths Wife
PRO
Brandler London
4 years ago
Richard, when I refurbished a house for rental and another for sale I was told by the Estate Agents that neutral colours were best.

Apparently the reason for this is that potential buyers can then imagine how they would decorate the space as most new buyers do, or so I am told.

Some buyers may like a dramatic area to look at, which the blue colour of yours certainly gives, but would not like to live with it and so may be put off buying the property.

In conclusion my advice would be to speak to your estate agent as they know what their buyers are looking for and may also have an input as to furniture positions, etc.

Best of luck.