Colour Zoning in Open-Plan Living Spaces

Zoning Space with Colour in Open Plans

Open-plan living spaces where walls have been removed offer freedom and sociability, but distinguishing different functional zones becomes difficult. Colour is the smartest way to achieve this zoning.

Zoning with Floor Colour

Using a rug in the seating area and a hard floor in the dining area draws a visual boundary. Even a small difference in floor colour is enough to divide the space functionally.

Accent Walls

A different-coloured panel or backsplash behind the kitchen counter, a dark-toned prominent wall in the dining room and a feature wall in the living room give each zone its own identity.

Colour Continuity

When separating different areas, using tones derived from the main colour rather than completely breaking the palette provides cohesion. For example, a tonal scale such as light grey-dark grey-anthracite both separates and connects.

Textiles and Accessories

Textile elements such as cushions, curtains, rugs and tablecloths are the easiest and cheapest-to-change tools of colour zoning.