There are a lot of benefits to an open floor plan. You can watch TV from the kitchen. There is improved air flow – no more hot kitchen. The expanded living space after walls are removed. An open floor plan encourages talking, laughing, and socializing with everyone!

Unfortunately, this also means there can be unwanted or distracting background noise. Thankfully, there are many ways to improve the acoustics and reduce noise in your open floor plan.

Decorate Your Walls

Covering your walls with paintings, art, decor, acoustic wall panels, or etc. can work wonders for stopping the echo in your living room. The echo is most likely a result of sound bouncing off of two parallel walls, so hanging textiles, art, and other decorations on the problem walls can add sound absorption that can help stop the refraction.

Soft surface items on those parallel walls can disrupt, at least partially, the capability of sound to keep bouncing back and forth between the two.

Rugs and Curtains

Rugs can help reduce, diffuse, and dissipate sound. The floor can act as a reflective surface for sound if it is made of concrete, wood, or tile. Rugs, however, can combat that sound reflection. The rug fibers help dissipate sound and absorb the impact, which is especially useful in rooms with high ceilings. The longer the fibers, the better. Adding a rug will help reduce noise and echoes and can also make the space warmer, cozier, and more pleasant.

Soft Furnishings and Accessories

Once the walls, floors, and windows are covered, layer in some soft furnishings like large or small poufs. Then incorporate throw blankets and pillows to help soften the look and reduce the sound. A tall bookcase accessorized with books and objects can dress up a room and while forcing sound waves to bend around it. The more items in your living room, the less space sound has to move.

Use these interior decorating tips to reduce noise in your open concept space while making your house or apartment more attractive as well. By cover the walls, laying down rugs, and bringing in your favorite pieces of furniture and décor you will create a comfortable, quiet space.

We can design your living room to match your aesthetic and needs. Contact us to schedule a consultation!

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