What Is Broken Plan Living?

Broken-plan living or flexible plan living describes a home with a mix of spaces. One that has both open spaces (with a sense of airiness) – but also offers areas that can be divided up or closed off to offer some privacy and cosiness.

Instead of one large living area, the space might be divided up into different zones to offer a snug or small nook or a living area separated from the kitchen and dining area.

The area can be divided in different ways: as a split-level home, with walls, sliding doors or even a simple bookshelf to zone up the space.

The term broken-plan was first used by Architect Mary Duggan – one of the judges of the 2015 RIBA House of the Year award. Because it provides the best of both worlds, this rising trend is set to replace the now ubiquitous open plan home.