Claire Garner Design Studio

Creating Functional and Cosy Zones in Open-Plan Living: Expert Tips from Claire Garner, Director of Claire Garner Design Studio

Claire Garner Design Studio, renowned for timeless and classic interiors, guides homeowners in achieving the perfect balance of spaciousness and well-defined zoning in open-plan living spaces. With a thoughtful approach to both form and function, Claire Garner shares her expert advice on creating distinct zones while maintaining the fluidity that makes open-plan living so desirable.
Claire Garner, Director, Claire Garner Design Studio

"Open-plan spaces offer a wonderful sense of freedom, however it’s essential to establish visual and functional zones to avoid the feeling of one large, undefined area," says Claire. "Thoughtful design and carefully chosen furnishings can transform these spaces into harmonious zones that cater to various activities, while still feeling cohesive and inviting."
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Claire Garner Design Studio - Western House 03


Define Each Area with Purpose


Open-plan living remains an attractive choice, especially for families. "It creates a communal atmosphere where parents can stay connected to children while cooking or working, and it makes hosting gatherings more social," says Claire.


The first step to creating a well-designed open-plan space is understanding the needs of each area. For instance, the kitchen, dining and living spaces can serve different purposes within a single room.

Claire recommends starting with purpose-driven layouts that address how each zone will be used. "Consider the flow of movement and natural light when planning your zones, ensuring that each area has a clear purpose," she advises.

"Open-plan kitchens for example, need to balance design with practicality, addressing acoustics, privacy and storage to create a stylish and functional space," comments Claire.

Use Furniture to Anchor Each Zone

Strategically placing furniture can help establish boundaries within an open floor plan. "We often use sofas or lounge chairs to create a cosy, defined seating area, while dining tables naturally anchor the dining zone. In our recent Western House project, this design approach is evident, where seating and dining areas are thoughtfully arranged to maintain a sense of structure without the need for physical barriers," says Claire.
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Claire Garner Design Studio - Western House 01

Layer Lighting for Distinct Atmospheres

Lighting is essential in defining and elevating each area within an open-plan layout. By using a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting, Claire Garner Design Studio creates layers that distinguish each area while contributing to the overall atmosphere.  "The right lighting can make each zone feel unique, yet seamlessly connected to the rest of the space," explains Claire . "Large pendant lights over the dining table and kitchen island serve as statement pieces, helping to anchor and visually define these areas. In the lounge, a mix of wall sconces, table lamps and candles creates a warm, inviting ambiance that’s adaptable to different moods and occasions. This layered approach to lighting not only enhances the functionality of each zone but also adds depth and cohesion to the entire open-plan design."
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Use Rugs and Accessories to Define Zones

To counteract noise in an open space, Claire recommends adding soft materials like cushions, curtains or rugs, which help absorb sound. This is particularly useful in open-plan kitchens where hard surfaces tend to reflect sound. "A well-chosen rug can instantly anchor a space, adding both warmth and character," says Claire. Thoughtfully selected accessories, such as artwork, plants and decorative items, further enhance each area, creating focal points that subtly reinforce the boundaries between zones. Together, these elements bring cohesion and personality to an open-plan design, making each space feel distinct yet harmonious within the larger layout.
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Claire Garner Design Studio - Western House 14

Opt for Neutral Palettes with Rustic Warming Tones

Using a neutral colour palette across the space ensures unity, while adding accent colours within each zone can create individual character. "We love incorporating subtle greens, warm woods and natural textures, which add depth and warmth without overwhelming the space," says Claire. "Soft rustic hues and earthy tones are a hallmark of our designs, as they’re timeless and create a calming atmosphere." This balanced approach ensures each area feels both cohesive and inviting.
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Bring the Outdoors In

Large windows, glass doors and skylights are ideal in open-plan design, as they flood the space with natural light and seamlessly connect indoor and outdoor living. "Creating a visual link between the interior and the garden extends the space, making it feel larger and more integrated with nature," explains Claire. This connection not only enhances the airy, open feel but also allows the home to change with the seasons, adding warmth in the summer and cosiness in the winter.
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Bringing plants inside further strengthens this indoor-outdoor connection. Lush greenery and potted plants add a refreshing burst of life and colour to the space, while also purifying the air and promoting well-being. "Incorporating plants of various heights and textures helps to soften the edges of the room and add natural focal points," Claire adds. Whether placed on shelves, clustered in corners or arranged on coffee tables, indoor plants contribute to a sense of calm and harmony, reinforcing the connection to the natural world.
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