How to Creatively Place Carpets to Define Areas in Open-Plan Spaces

As attitudes towards the functionality and aesthetics of homes and offices have evolved, the trend towards creating open-plan living and working spaces has gathered speed and become widely accepted. At BOAS Cleaning Services, we recognise the importance of comfortable, inviting spaces and their effect on those who spend time in them. 

This article dives into the subject of open-plan spaces and the strategic placement of carpets and rugs as a practical, savvy way to separate and define different areas without restricting structural/temporary walls.

The Advantages of Open-Plan Spaces

Before we examine tips and strategies to define separate areas within an open-plan space, it is worth addressing the reasons why this is advantageous, as follows:

• Increased natural light
• Improved airflow
• Visually arresting, aesthetic appeal
• The efficient, practical use of available space
• Easier supervision in working environments
• The perception of space
• Maximum versatility and flexibility
• Facilitating multipurpose use
• Enhanced social interaction
• Superior environments for entertaining
• Increased property value

Determine Applicable Areas

The spaces where it is appropriate to use strategic carpeting to maximum effect depend on the location in question and its intended use. Homes and offices differ, but some common spaces include:

• Living areas
• Dining and break areas
• Home or corporate offices
• Play areas

Choose Appropriate Carpet Sizes

Each carpet must be a sensible size for the area it is intended to define. Oversized pieces will ruin the illusion of separation, and undersized ones will look odd and fail to achieve the desired result. 

• In living and separate working areas, use larger rugs and carpets that all the furniture can sit on, ensuring that chairs can be moved without catching the edges.
• Dining areas need a rug or carpet small enough to define the area as separate from the others but big enough to allow the chairs to be pulled out safely.
• Home office spaces need a separate rug or carpet that creates the desired workspace boundary.

Coordinate Patterns and Colours

Although a consistent, complimentary theme is an aesthetic requirement in many locations, different colours and patterns can be employed to separate open-plan spaces without sacrificing cohesion. 

• Contrast—Consider bold patterns for living areas and solid colours for dining areas. 
• Tonal opposites—Another way to contrast effectively is to choose ‘complementary’ colours that are tonal opposites. These create an eye-catching contrast in overlapping areas. The basic tonal opposites are as follows:

• Black and white
• Red and green
• Blue and orange
• Yellow and purple

• Avoid overly busy patterns that confuse the eye and cause issues if objects are dropped.
• Harmonise—Aim to maintain a consistent colour palette for a harmonious effect. Consider the overall impact and vibe of different palettes, whether earthy, natural tones or more arresting, unnatural ones. Choose and blend them wisely. 

Create Layers

• Layering rugs on top of carpets can add depth that defines individual spaces. Choose patterned or contrasting-coloured rugs over neutral carpets or vice versa. 
• Textured rugs on smooth carpets add visual interest and create inviting areas but take care not to overwhelm the space.

Use Furniture to Your Advantage

• Existing furniture can be useful in anchoring rugs and smaller carpets, clearly distinguishing between open-plan spaces and reducing tripping risks. 

Consider Foot-Flow

Your choice of carpets and rugs may be determined by the footfall they can expect to encounter. There must be ample space for movement between rugs and defined areas, and pathways should be rug-free for safety and easy navigation. Smaller rugs or runners are an excellent way to transition between significant areas.

Facilitate Multipurpose Spaces

Rugs and carpets are a superb way to create defined but flexible boundaries in multipurpose spaces. 

• Consider soft, plush rugs for play spaces
• Create separate reading areas with smaller, comfortable rugs
• Highlight break areas using brightly coloured, inviting rugs to draw the eye and create a welcoming space

Experiment with Placement and Non-Traditional Angles

Although many people gravitate towards traditional carpet and rug placement, large enough spaces may be able to accommodate unusual, contrasting angles for a dynamic, visually appealing effect that feels less structured and more expansive. When you have selected your carpets and rugs, spend time placing them in different areas and using alternative angles to see which gives the best overall effect without compromising safety, practicality, or the definition of each space. 

Safety Considerations

While using separate carpets and rugs to define areas within open-plan spaces is highly effective, some consideration must be given to safety. Unseated carpets and rugs can be a tripping hazard, but the following methods can lower the risk significantly:

• Non-slip rug pads for extra grip
• Double-sided tape to prevent movement
• Anchoring with heavy furniture
• Carpets and rugs with non-slip backing
• Regular adjustments 

These products and methods help keep rugs and carpets securely in place, minimising the risk of tripping hazards.

Contact BOAS Cleaning Services + Building Maintenance

Please do not hesitate to get in touch with us today for more information on how to creatively place carpets to define areas in open-plan spaces. If you have any questions or comments about this guide or want to learn more about BOAS Cleaning Services and how we can help, please use our convenient contact form, call 1300 611 454, or email [email protected]