Open Concept Living: Is It Right for Your Home?
Open floor plans are a popular request for everything from full Germantown home renovations to targeted kitchen remodels in Cedarburg and it’s easy to see why. Removing walls can give your home a more modern, connected and light-filled vibe. But before you commit to an open concept, it’s worth taking a closer look at how it really fits your lifestyle.
Let’s break down the pros and cons of open concept living and whether it’s the right choice for your next remodeling project.
Pro: More Natural Light and Airy Feel
Tearing down walls can make even modest homes in Grafton, Mequon and Richfield feel bigger and brighter. Light flows more freely through the space and without barriers, it’s easier to create a cohesive, updated design.
Where we see this most:
In older homes where compartmentalized rooms make kitchens feel closed-off. Many of our Cedarburg kitchen remodel clients choose to open up their layouts to connect the kitchen, dining and living areas for a more inviting and practical space.
KMKB Tip:
If you’re going for an open feel, consider pairing it with lighter flooring, larger windows or even a kitchen island to help define zones without closing things off.
Pro: Better Flow for Families and Entertaining
Open layouts help everyone feel more connected, whether you’re keeping an eye on the kids during dinner prep or hosting a gathering with friends. That’s why so many Germantown home renovation projects include removing barriers between key living areas.
In action:
We’ve seen families in Oconomowoc and beyond transform their homes by combining kitchen, dining, and living spaces into one flowing layout. It’s a move that improves both daily function and resale appeal. A great example? Check out this Germantown kitchen remodel, where we opened up the space to create a bright, welcoming hub for modern living.
KMKB Bonus:
An open kitchen remodel often gives you more flexibility for seating, serving and storage, with fewer walls in the way.
Con: Noise Carries (More Than You Think)
The downside of fewer walls? Less noise control. That open kitchen might be beautiful, but the sounds of cooking, TV, and conversation can blend into one noisy mix.
How it affects you:
If you work from home or have kids with different schedules, an open concept layout can make it harder to find quiet space. This is especially important in multi-use homes where living rooms double as offices or study areas.
KMKB Advice:
We recommend our clients in Mequon and Cedarburg balance openness with acoustic comfort by adding soft finishes, rugs and strategic room dividers when needed.
Con: Less Wall Space and Storage
Walls aren’t just for separating rooms, they hold cabinets, shelves, art and décor. In kitchen remodels, removing a wall can mean losing valuable upper cabinetry.
Smart design is key:
If your Cedarburg kitchen remodel includes wall removal, we’ll help you rework your layout to maximize storage elsewhere…think larger islands, floor-to-ceiling pantries or cleverly built-in shelving.
Neutral: Resale Value Depends on the Buyer
While open concept homes used to be the gold standard, buyer preferences are evolving. Today’s homebuyers in places like Germantown or Richfield often look for balance, spaces that feel open but still offer privacy for work or rest.
Thinking ahead:
If you’re remodeling for resale, talk to your contractor about what buyers in your area are looking for. We stay on top of local trends and help you create spaces that feel modern but still meet your long-term goals.
Final Thoughts: Open Floor Plans Done Right
At Kettle Moraine Kitchen & Bath, we’re big fans of function-first remodeling. Whether you’re tackling a Cedarburg kitchen remodel or planning a full Germantown home renovation, we’ll help you think through your layout, lifestyle, and goals.
Open concept living can be the right move, but only when it’s done with care, planning and smart design.
