Why Separated Spaces Are Making a Comeback in Home Design

Jourdan B.
Sep 4
2 min read

For years, open-concept floor plans dominated home design. Kitchens, living rooms, and dining areas flowed into one another, creating an airy, spacious feel that homeowners loved. But design trends are shifting, and separated spaces are becoming more popular—and for good reason. At IGFI Construction, we’ve noticed a growing desire among Phoenix homeowners for functional, well-defined rooms that balance openness with privacy and practicality.

1. Privacy and Quiet Matter More Than Ever

Open-concept layouts are visually appealing, but they can make privacy nearly impossible. With more people working from home, remote learning, or enjoying hobbies, families are craving quiet, dedicated spaces. Separated rooms allow homeowners to:

Work or study without distractions
Enjoy personal space for hobbies or reading
Reduce noise between common areas

2. Cooking Without Chaos

Kitchens are often the heart of a home, but in open-concept layouts, the chaos of cooking spills into the living and dining areas. Separated kitchens provide:

Containment of cooking smells and mess
More countertop and storage space
Defined zones for meal prep, cooking, and entertaining

In Phoenix, where families entertain frequently, a kitchen that’s functional but separate can be a game-changer.

3. Better Room Functionality

Not every activity fits an open space. Separate rooms allow for specialized functionality, such as:

Home offices or study rooms
Playrooms or media rooms for kids
Formal dining rooms for family gatherings

By defining spaces, you can ensure each room serves its purpose efficiently without feeling cramped or cluttered.

4. Aesthetic Flexibility

Separation doesn’t mean feeling closed off. Thoughtful design elements like partial walls, sliding doors, or glass partitions can provide separation while maintaining:

Natural light flow
Visual connection between rooms
Flexibility for entertaining or hosting

This approach gives homeowners the best of both worlds: defined rooms that still feel connected.

5. Easier Organization

Open spaces can feel airy, but they often struggle with clutter control. Separated spaces make it easier to:

Contain toys, books, and electronics in designated areas
Organize cooking and dining tools efficiently
Create a tidy, stress-free environment

A home that feels organized and functional is more enjoyable for everyone.

6. Customization and Personalization

With separate rooms, homeowners have more freedom to personalize each space:

Choose paint colors and flooring that match the room’s purpose
Incorporate custom storage solutions tailored to activities
Design a workspace or media room that fits your lifestyle perfectly

Separated spaces allow your home to reflect your family’s unique needs and style preferences.

Separation doesn’t mean sacrificing style or flow—it means creating a home that fits your family’s lifestyle. Contact IGFI Construction today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you transform your open-concept space into a home that balances privacy, function, and design.