Designing Functional Zones in an Open-Plan Great Room

A San Diego-based designer, Diane Luna, transformed a vast, open great room into three distinct and functional zones without major renovations. Luna began by defining the formal living room as the home's first impression. The dining room was defined by a bold dark teal wall paint, Dunn Edwards’ Taliesin Blue (DE 798), which contrasted sharply with the ivory paneling in the living room. The family room was designed as a lighthearted, family-friendly zone with neutral walls that showcased the view of the canyon from the back patio (source ID: 1). [1]

The home’s existing architecture played a crucial role in defining the three zones. Luna utilized the builder’s original arches and a dated pony wall, which she decided to keep for practicality. These visual cues helped her make decisions about each of the unique spaces. The clients’ inspiration also influenced the design, with the wife’s concept photos showcasing traditional-meets-modern living rooms and the husband’s desire for a functional home (source ID: 1). [1]

In the formal living room, Luna used ivory paneling and a light blue ceiling to set the space apart. The paneling was painted a custom ivory color and trimmed with crown, baseboard, and casings in a charcoal color called Dunn Edwards’ Sheet Metal (DE 6346). This two-toned effect created a classic style, and the dark trim acted like a frame around the living room (source ID: 1). [1]

The dining room was defined by a bold use of color, with a dark teal wall paint called Dunn Edwards’ Taliesin Blue (DE 798) creating a high-impact definition. Timorous Beasties black-and-white Thistle Wallpaper was hung on the ceiling as an unexpected touch, and the space was finished off with charcoal crown molding. A large dining table and dramatic, two-toned cane chairs established the personality of the space (source ID: 1). [1]

A San Diego-based designer, Diane Luna, transformed a vast, open great room into three distinct and functional zones without major renovations. The home’s existing architecture played a crucial role in defining the three zones. In the formal living room, Luna used ivory paneling and a light blue ceiling to set the space apart. The dining room was defined by a bold use of color, with a dark teal wall paint called Dunn Edwards’ Taliesin Blue (DE 798) creating a high-impact definition. This approach allowed the spaces to maintain a cohesive aesthetic while still feeling distinct (source ID: 1). [1]

The family room was designed as a lighthearted, family-friendly zone with neutral walls that showcased the view of the canyon from the back patio. Luna kept the walls and ceiling neutral to emphasize the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. The use of an oversized, luxe sectional in white fabric and a coffee table with built-in trays made the space both functional and comfortable for daily use (source ID: 1). [1]

Luna also addressed the home’s echo problem by incorporating sound-dampening elements, such as large linen chairs with matching ottomans in the living room and double-layered drapes in the dining room. These soft furnishings helped absorb noise and create a more welcoming atmosphere. Additionally, Luna used the home’s existing architectural features, such as arches and a pony wall, to reinforce the spaces without undertaking any major renovations (source ID: 1). [1]

Sources

Apartment Therapy

Prepared with AI assistance from the cited sources.