In the world of home design, one debate continues to stand the test of time: open concept vs. defined spaces. For homeowners across Middle Tennessee — from Murfreesboro to Franklin to Mt. Juliet — the decision comes down to lifestyle, home layout, and long-term goals.
At Reed’s Remodeling, we’ve worked on countless homes across the South, customizing layouts to match our clients’ unique preferences. Here’s a breakdown of both styles, their benefits, and how to decide what works best for your Southern home.
🏠 What Is an Open Concept Layout?
Open concept design eliminates dividing walls between major living spaces — typically combining the kitchen, dining, and living areas into one large, flowing area. It’s all about connectivity, light, and spaciousness.
✅ Benefits of Open Concept in Southern Homes:
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Great for entertaining – perfect for hosting BBQs, holiday dinners, or game nights
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Allows natural light to travel – especially valuable in ranch-style or single-story homes
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Creates the illusion of more space – ideal for homes with smaller square footage
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Keeps families connected – parents can cook while keeping an eye on kids in the living room
🛋️ What Are Defined Spaces?
Defined layouts feature individual rooms with walls or partial enclosures separating each function — a formal dining room, a closed kitchen, and distinct living or family rooms.
✅ Benefits of Defined Spaces in Southern Homes:
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More privacy and noise control – great for larger families or multigenerational households
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Distinct character in each room – allows for specialized décor or functions (home offices, media rooms, etc.)
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Better temperature control – easier to heat/cool smaller rooms in older Southern homes
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Traditional charm – complements historic homes and classic Southern architecture
🌾 Which Style Suits Southern Living Best?
It depends on your home’s layout, age, and your lifestyle. Here’s what to consider:
✅ Choose Open Concept if:
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You love to entertain
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Your current floor plan feels cramped or dated
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You want a more modern, airy aesthetic
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You’re doing a major remodel or gut renovation
✅ Choose Defined Spaces if:
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You value quiet zones or dedicated rooms
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Your home has strong architectural features worth preserving
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You want formal dining or a cozy, traditional feel
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You work from home and need separation of space
🔨 The Reed’s Remodeling Approach
We’ve helped homeowners across Murfreesboro, Franklin, Spring Hill, Mt. Juliet, Lascassas, and beyond reimagine their floor plans — whether that means opening up walls or creatively defining space using columns, arches, custom shelving, or half-walls.
Not sure what’s possible in your home? We’ll walk through your space, listen to your needs, and recommend the smartest design — both functionally and financially.
Ready to Redesign Your Floor Plan?
If you’re thinking about remodeling and are stuck between an open concept and defined spaces, Reed’s Remodeling can help you weigh the pros and cons — and craft a layout that truly works for your lifestyle.
