Visit a display village or home builder’s website and it is very clear that open plan living is the current trend – and it looks like it’s here to stay. Giving a fresh, modern and practical solution for family living, the open plan design is one that is full of possibility. For the entertainer, these designs ensure endless opportunity to gather friends and family and create lasting memories in a home they cherish.

Of course, open plan design can still be quite varied, with numerous formations to choose from to cater to your needs. It makes sense for a buyer to assess their preferred types of entertainment in order to find a home that is going to suit their expectations. To help you make this decision, we’ve taken a look at some of the common entertainment spaces and what you should be looking for.

The Home Chef
Those who love to whip up their latest creation and serve it amongst friends and family are going to need the perfect kitchen and dining combo. You will need to assess the kind of dishes you like to cook most, how much preparation space you require (for example, is an island bench a necessity?) and ensure the kitchen work triangle will match how you like to cook in the kitchen.

You will also need to consider whether you prefer an intimate setting with those closest to you or large events with the whole family and large group of friends. The answer to this question will help you assess dining areas and the size you will require.

The Outdoor Entertainer
Love to spend your days outdoors? Then the right backyard is going to be crucial. Outdoor entertaining comes in many forms, so you will need to think about the activities you are going to partake in most. Will you be cooking on the barbecue and enjoying alfresco dining? Will you throw pool or spa parties matched with drinks on the deck? Are you more of a sports fan and simply want space to run around with the kids? The answers to these will help you assess your space and decide which elements are most important. Of course, you can get a mix of multiple entertainment areas (for example, a deck and spa with a large grassed area for the kids), the trick will be finding the right size to give you the freedom to transform it how you see fit.

The Movie Buff
Love watching the latest blockbusters? Or perhaps you prefer re-watching the classics? No matter what genre you prefer, every movie buff is going to need the perfect space to relax and watch their next flick. For those smaller gatherings, simply having a great lounge or family area will be enough to throw some great movie nights. If you are looking for something a bit more luxurious or something large enough to fit all your friends, you may want to look at a transformative open plan space. By incorporating a function in your home that transforms the living area into a theatrette, you can take advantage of the whole space, giving you greater capacity to enjoy the features of luxury entertainment.

The Game Master
If board and card games are more your style, you are going to want a space that can cater for multiple chairs. Dining and living areas can easily be converted into your games space, so it’s simply a matter of finding a space that is going to be large enough. Having these areas close to a kitchen is great as it makes it easier to grab nibbles and drinks for players.

Have kids? While their wild imaginations can turn any area into place for entertainment, you may want to think about noise control and containing the mess. An extra bedroom or even a rumpus area is going to be great. These will be set apart from the parts of the layout where it is most open, meaning the noise won’t travel and disturb everyone else.

For those looking at double storey houses, having a rumpus room on the top floor can be great. The adults can then entertain in the kitchen or living areas while the kids embark on their latest adventure or enjoy their new game in their own entertainment haven.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

The information contained in this article is intended to be of a general nature only. It has been prepared without taking into account any person’s objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this information, Fairhaven Homes recommends that you consider whether it is appropriate for your circumstances and that you seek independent legal, financial, and taxation advice before acting on any information in this article.