How The Pandemic Changed Our View of Open Concept Living
Remember 2020, when we all suddenly became intimately acquainted with every square inch of our homes? The open concept floor plan—that aspirational design choice that dominated home-buying wish lists for years—faced its biggest test during lockdown. And the results? Well, they're more nuanced than you might think.
The Great Floor Plan Debate: How The Pandemic Changed Our View of Open Concept Living
The Open Concept Dream
Pre-pandemic, open floor plans represented the ideal: a flowing, communal space where family could gather while dinner was being prepared, where entertaining felt effortless, and where natural light could reach every corner. The appeal was undeniable—and in many ways, still is.
Then came lockdown. Suddenly, that beautifully open space had to serve as:
- A home office (or two)
- A virtual classroom
- A gym
- A restaurant
- A movie theater
- And yes, still a home
The sound of video calls competed with virtual school sessions. The smell of lunch prep wafted through everyone's workspace. The boundaries between work and home life—already blurry—virtually disappeared.
Now, as we emerge from those intense years of at-home everything, buyers are expressing a renewed appreciation for defined spaces. While open concept hasn't lost its appeal entirely, there's a growing desire for:
- Dedicated home offices with doors
- Homework rooms or study nooks
- Separate play spaces for kids
- Private areas for phone calls or virtual meetings
- Spaces that can transition from work to home life
The ideal modern floor plan might be something of a hybrid—maintaining the connection and flow of open concept in main living areas while incorporating strategic private spaces. Think:
- Semi-open floor plans with clever room dividers
- Flexible spaces that can be closed off when needed
- Pocket doors for occasional separation
- Strategic sound-dampening design elements
Like so many aspects of home design, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. The key is understanding how you and your family actually live in and use your space. The perfect floor plan is the one that supports your daily life—whether that's completely open, traditionally separated, or somewhere in between.
What's your experience been? Has your ideal floor plan changed since 2020? I'd love to hear your thoughts!
Organizations Making a Difference Some of my favorite nonprofits doing incredible work right here in our backyard: 914Cares , Westchester Land Trust , Hope's Door , The Pantry , Community Center NW, and the Suzanne Grant Foundation . Each one addresses critical needs, from food insecurity and domestic violence support to land conservation and community programming. How We Give Back Together After every sale, I make a donation in my client's name to an organization of their choice. It's a simple gesture that creates real impact. But more importantly, it introduces people to the vital work happening in their new community. When you learn about your neighbors' needs and the organizations serving them, you don't just move to a place—you become part of it. This Holiday Season: Let's Hit the Give Back Program Hard The holidays are the perfect time to amplify our impact. Whether you're buying, selling, or simply wanting to make a difference, let's support these organizations together. A percentage of my profits goes directly back into the community, and I'm challenging myself—and you—to give even more this season. Keep Showing Up Giving back isn't a one-time event. It's about consistently showing up for your community, learning what's happening in your own backyard, and helping your neighbors assimilate and thrive. When we all contribute, even in small ways, we create stronger, more connected neighborhoods. Ready to make a difference? Reach out to learn more about the give back program, or pick your favorite local organization and support them today.
The holiday season is magical, but let's be honest—crafting with kids can sometimes feel more stressful than festive. Between the glue spills, the scissors mishaps, and the inevitable meltdowns, holiday activities don't always go as planned.
As a real estate agent who's helped dozens of New York City families relocate to upstate properties over the past few years, I've witnessed a transformation that goes far beyond real estate transactions.