Are Closed-Concept Layouts Back? Designers Say Yes

When it comes to interior design, there are certain topics that people get passionate—and even polarized—about: maximalism versus minimalism, carpet versus hardwood floors, and of course, open-concept versus closed-concept layouts.

Open-concept layouts have sat on a throne in the past few decades, becoming the norm in homes across the United States. They’re coveted for creating light and bright spaces where everyone can move about freely.

But, we've recently seen closed-concept layouts get more love and are a bit taken back—weren't we just knocking down walls to open things up?

We called on four interior designers for their unfiltered thoughts on closed-concept layouts, plus their take on why it is making a comeback. Here’s what to know about the latest design trend.

Why Closed-Concept Layouts are Making a Comeback

As most trends go, design trends are also cyclical.

“Wait around long enough, and something that was once out will be back in again—case in point: closed-concept layouts,” Nancy Barnett, principal designer and founder of Nancy Lane Interiors, explains.

Barnett noted that a century or two ago, having a home with separate rooms was actually a sign of wealth. Open-concept living started gaining popularity in the 1950s and quickly became the preferred layout—and now, the scales are shifting again. 

Jean Liu, the principal and founder of Jean Liu Design, notes that clients are now begging for privacy in their homes.

“When the whole family is home, it's challenging to be on one call after another in an open-concept living/dining/kitchen part of the house while the other spouse was doing the same thing," she explains. "Add kids into the equation, and the noise amplifies.”

Aside from pure practicality, closed-concept layouts also create more unique environments throughout the home.

“It's about channeling a specific energy into one central area, drawing everyone in, rather than dispersing them across multiple zones,” Bilal Rehman, interior designer and CEO of Bilal Rehman Studio, says.

Still, this doesn’t mean open-concept living is gone for good. Open-concept layouts were all the rage for a while, and Naïka André, CEO and principal designer of NJA Interiors, doesn't believe that will ever go away entirely.

“It's all about balance—both open and closed spaces can and should coexist in harmony," she says.

Yes, There Are Actually Benefits of Separate Rooms

Closed-concept layouts entail spaces or specific rooms divided by walls, doors, hallways, and even an open archway, as Barnett outlines. With a closed concept, there's a distinct feeling of separation—not to mention peaceful quiet and privacy.

One concern with closed layouts is that spaces can feel smaller. With careful consideration of ceiling height and window sizes, it's entirely possible to create a closed-concept layout that feels just as spacious and grand as its open counterpart, according to Liu.

Plus, while extra walls might seem boxy, the extra surface area can actually come in handy.

“Closed concepts do allow more opportunities for the walls to be finished and designed in a way that can amplify the overall look of a house,” Liu explains.

Closed-concept layouts also offer an unintentional benefit of making spaces tidier.

“Think of an open-concept layout during a dinner party—there is no escape from cluttered views, including dirty dishes," Barnett says.

“If you've just destroyed your kitchen trying out a new recipe and don't want to stare at it while you eat dinner with your family, you don't have to!” Rehman concurs.

Tips to Make Your Closed-Concept Layout Work

Whether or not you like closed-concept layouts, you may be stuck with one regardless. So, how do you make the most of it?

“You can really have fun and get creative in the individual spaces of a closed-concept layout with bold paint color or wallpaper and fabrics,” Barnett says.

To tie rooms together and ensure they “speak the same language,” Rehman recommends using similar color palettes, textures, or furniture styles in each space.

Barnett also likes using multiple mirrors for their reflective value—as they help open up more enclosed spaces by maximizing light.

If you’re craving separation in your space, but don’t necessarily want—or have the funds for—thick barriers, you can always get creative. André, for instance, likes to create “zones”  rather than permanent walls.

“Think about what your family needs are: are you big on puzzles but don't want to disturb the person cuddled up in a chair reading a book?" she says. "Incorporate room dividers. Use furniture, rugs, and plants of different heights to help create a separation of space."