The appeal of open-plan living is undeniable for families and those who love to entertain. Creating an open-plan living space in a home not originally designed for it—especially a charming period property—can feel impossible, but with the right home builder, Adelaide property owners can achieve this vision.
Older homes often exude character and charm, but these same features can sometimes work against modern living needs. Many of these homes were built with smaller, purpose-specific rooms that don’t align with today’s demand for flexibility and connectivity. With this in mind, how do you get that airy kitchen-dining or bring more light to your home?
Transforming a traditional layout into an open-plan space requires thoughtful planning. It’s more than just knocking down walls. It’s about blending the old with the new, ensuring that the home’s history isn’t lost in the process.

An open-plan layout is a lifestyle transformation
By removing barriers between rooms, you can create a space that feels larger, lighter, and more physically and socially connected. But before diving into the build, it’s crucial to think carefully about your goals and whether an open-plan redesign is the best solution for your home and lifestyle.
One of the main reasons people choose an open-plan layout is to foster a stronger connection between spaces. Modern life often revolves around multitasking—cooking dinner while supervising homework or chatting with guests while setting the table. An open-plan space makes it easier to stay connected, allowing family members or friends to share moments across a unified area.
Natural light transforms a home, making it feel brighter, more welcoming, and even more spacious. Removing internal walls allows light to travel freely through the space, illuminating areas that might otherwise feel dark or enclosed. This is particularly appealing for older homes, where smaller windows and compartmentalised rooms often lack brightness.
For homes with limited area, an open-plan layout can also create the illusion of more room. Removing walls eliminates visual interruptions, making your home more extensive and cohesive. Even period homes with modest dimensions can benefit from this openness, provided the redesign is thoughtfully planned.
The key to a successful open-plan renovation lies in balance
Done right, open-plan living can truly improve your lifestyle—making it easier to juggle cooking with family time, hosting friends, or simply enjoying a greater sense of space and light. Period properties, in particular, come with their own set of challenges.
Once those walls come down, the intimate atmosphere they provided is gone for good. For homeowners, it’s a delicate balance between preserving a home’s original charm and embracing the functional benefits of open-plan living.
The process of transforming a home into an open-plan space while retaining its character and maximising its potential is a task BTF Constructions, as a go-to custom home builder in Adelaide, is often given.
We’ve worked with everything from large floor plans to compact spaces, applying smart design principles, thoughtful zoning, and preserving the soul of the home to every project. We know how to deliver that perfect balance and create a space that’s practical and beautiful.
How to renovate your way to an open-plan living space
With a skilled home builder, Adelaide property owners can transform their homes into an open-plan space that feels connected, functional, and light-filled. Here are some key strategies to consider:
Take out some walls
One of the simplest ways to embrace open-plan living is by removing walls. This instantly merges separate rooms into a cohesive, flowing space. In period homes, even load-bearing walls can be replaced with structural solutions like beams or supports to maintain the integrity of the building.
However, careful planning is crucial—work with a professional to ensure the changes enhance the layout without compromising the home’s character.
Add a central kitchen island
The kitchen often becomes the centrepiece of an open-plan design, and a large central island is a must. It acts as a hub for family life and allows you to stay part of the action while preparing meals when entertaining. Just be mindful of clutter—design plenty of storage to keep your island sleek and functional.
Optimise the flow
A successful open-plan layout depends on how well the space flows. Traffic patterns must be intuitive, ensuring seamless movement between the kitchen, dining, living, and outdoor areas. This is especially important when extending a period home, as the design must respect the natural rhythm of the space. Thoughtful placement of walkways, furniture, and entry points can make a significant difference.
Choose the right shape
The overall shape of your open-plan layout is key. Long, rectangular spaces are particularly effective, offering a balanced length-to-width ratio that’s easy to furnish and navigate. This design also naturally directs activity toward outdoor areas, creating a harmonious link between inside and outside. Careful planning can ensure the space feels functional and inviting regardless of your home’s size.
Maximise natural light
Natural light is one of the most transformative elements in an open-plan layout. Large windows, skylights, and glass doors can flood the space with light, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The right ceiling height can also make all the difference—high ceilings add to the spaciousness and lend a grandeur to period properties.
Consult an experienced custom home builder in Adelaide
No matter how clear your vision is, bringing in an experienced building designer for your renovation helps refine your ideas. At BTF Constructions, we make sure the final design flows perfectly while respecting the character of your home.
Our insights into layout, materials, and finishes can save you time, money, and potential headaches.
Renovating to create an open-plan space is a great idea, and it has the potential to enhance your lifestyle while maintaining the unique charm of your home. Speak to the experts at BTF Constructions today and let our careful planning and expertise design a space that feels airy, functional, and beautifully connected.