Go With The Flow

A clever layout and savvy furniture placement are essential for creating a successful open-plan living area.

-  Beatrice Moore-Nothnage

#1 Easy living

After the awkward staircase (see page 54) between the dining area and living room in Brian and Louise Tait’s Rondebosch home was removed during a total revamp in 2019, the two spaces felt too large. With assistance from architectural designer Jenny Collins of Red Cat Design and interior designer Zarah Riley of Zarah Riley Interiors and Design, the couple opted to install a double-sided fireplace between the living area and dining room – not only a great way to subtly separate the two spaces, but also a striking feature. “The connection between the living area, dining room and kitchen and how the family interact with each other in these spaces was important,” says Jenny. “There needed to be plenty of cosy spots in which to relax with a book or doze in the afternoon sun as well as spaces ideal for hosting braais and dinner parties.”

CREATE ZONES

The kitchen is neatly tucked away in the ‘short arm’ of the L-shaped design, so it’s not in full view of the lounge – ideal if you need to hide a mess when guests arrive unexpectedly.

A series of beams running below the ceiling support the upper level and subtly define the various living areas on the ground floor.

Furniture and lighting were used to create zones, giving each area a clear purpose.

FURNITURE PLACEMENT