Image: The Block/Channel 9 / Domain
For years, open-plan living was the way to design a home. If we couldn’t all exist in one giant space, we didn’t want it. Entertaining without open-plan? Unthinkable. But in 2025, we’re collectively craving something different.
It’s striking a chord on social media, with content creator @therenegadehome sharing how she’s putting up walls to reverse her open-plan design.
“This is my petition to make open floor plans a thing of the past,” she said. The video has garnered 2.7 million views, with many chiming in to share their dislike for open-plan living.
The Block’s Steph and Gian have seen this sentiment firsthand at their architecture practice, Japandi Estate. “Open-plan living remains popular, but there’s a noticeable shift towards more defined spaces and room division,” they told Home Beautiful.
Why the change of heart? People’s evolving needs for privacy, functionality and flexibility are reshaping how we live. “While open-plan layouts are still valued for their sense of space and social connection, the post-pandemic lifestyle has highlighted the importance of dedicated areas for work, study, and relaxation.”
Is open-plan a good idea?
It’s all about personal preference, but open-plan living has its drawbacks. Here are five reasons why people are falling out of love with it:
- No privacy: Finding a quiet corner is nearly impossible when everyone’s in the same big room.
- Noise overload: The lack of walls means you’ll hear everything – conversations, the TV and kitchen chaos.
- Temperature troubles: Large spaces are harder to heat or cool evenly.
- Zoning headaches: Without walls, it takes some serious design skill to define separate areas.
- Clutter chaos: There’s no hiding that pile of dishes when it’s always in view.
If open-plan is over, what’s next?
According to Steph and Gian, it’s not about saying goodbye to openness but rather rethinking how we use our spaces. Here’s what’s trending:
- Textural divisions: “Open plans now often incorporate subtle sliding shoji-style panels, timber screens, or half walls to break up spaces.”
- Multi-functionality: “Rooms that can transform – like living areas doubling as home offices or guest rooms – are becoming increasingly popular.”
- Enclosed retreats: “The rise of remote work and more time at home has created demand for quieter, enclosed spaces for focus and relaxation.”
The comeback of the separate dining room
Even Neale Whitaker, host of Love It or List It and interiors expert, is calling attention to the return of more traditional spaces.
In his 2025 trends list which he shared on Instagram, Neale called out the return of the dining room – yes, a proper, separate dining room. “Not dining zones or little nooks leading off the kitchen, but good old-fashioned dining rooms are back,” he said.
Maybe it’s time to embrace the walls again. After all, there’s something undeniably charming about a home where every space has its own purpose.
