Open layout is a very trendy solution that is used by many designers and just home owners, and it’s not surprising because it has many advantages: the abundance of light, visual unity of whole apartment – and it seems larger thanks to such planning, too. Alas, there are some disadvantages, and one of the most important of them is noise: when there are no partitions or walls, the noise spreads faster. How can we solve this problem? I’ve prepared some tricks that will help you make your space not so sound.
Wall Covers
A large plain wall can reflect much noise but you can use wooden panels to reduce it. One more advantage here is that wood is very beautiful and will give your space warmth and a cozy feel.
Weathered pallet wood on the walls will reduce the sounds.
Choose wood in stains and colors that suits your interior and brings warmth to it.
Wood panels can cover not only the walls but also the ceiling for a better impact.
Wood planks clad in a geometric pattern create bold decor and make the space cool.
A reclaimed wood wall contrasts modern furniture and fixtures.
Upholstered walls also minimize the noise level, I’d say that even more than wood, so if you like some fabric or leather – go for it. Of course, such covers aren’t cheap but look absolutely gorgeous.
A diamond upholstery wall makes the space elegant and cozy.
Leather wall panels make the space look very chic and reduce the noise level.
Teal wall with decorative nails geo decor looks very chic.
Stylish leather panels with industrial decor look amazing and unique.
Creamy upholstered walls make the space chic, light-filled and absorb the sound.
Acoustic panels is one more smart idea to cover the walls. There are super stylish designer ones that can fit absolutely any interior, so you can easily find yours. Though it’s a costly solution, such panels will reduce any noise from neighbors, will keep your space more quiet and it’s especially necessary when you have a music studio or a home cinema, where the level of noise is the highest.
Scallop acoustic penals in white, grey and blue create an interesting wall art.
Stylish geometric wall panels can become eye-catchy wall arts.
Grey, black and white hexagon acoustic panels for a modern space.
Floors
The easiest solution is using carpet throughout the space: we all know that carpets can damp down the sound of the footsteps. Better choose high pile carpets as they will be the most effective ones.
High pile carpets will not only reduce the noise but also add coziness.
Such a high pile beige and grey carpet with tassels adds a boho feel.
Don't be afraid to blend seveal carpets to fit your color scheme.
Dark carpets are a bit more practical than lighter ones, epsecially if you have kids and pets.
If you don’t want carpets or carpeting floors, opt for some other soft cover, for example, for vinyl ones. Avoid any hard floor coatings like marble or tiles because they will increase the noise level.
Vinyl and linoleum tiles can be chic and eye-catchy whole reducing the noise.
Vinyl tiles can be a practical and not costly idea.
Neutral linoleum floors will easily fit any interior.
Neutral vinyl floors all over the open space won't cost much and will be functional.
High Partitions
Add a tall partition or a space divider, which won’t effect the overall feeling of a large open space but will save you from unnecessary noise. Plus, it helps to separate various areas of your open space.
A high partition will not only reduce the sound but will also make your bedroom more private.
Such a pallet partition can be also used for storage.
A vertical wooden partition is a warm and stylish solution for dividing the space.
A tall headboard wooden wall acts as a space divider here and makes the bedroom private.
Curtains
Large glass surfaces, like windows and balcony doors, reflect the sound, and it spreads throughout the room. The best idea here is hanging long draperies that reach the floor, and if you are afraid that they will steal the natural light, choose semi sheer ones.
Semi sheer curtains reduce the noise and cover the windows for privacy.
Draperies to the floor decrease the sound level and add coziness.
Light draperies can be used for dividing the spaces too.