Whether an architect trying to design a trendier residential
layout or homeowner looking to refurbish their residence with a fresher look,
modern layouts are constantly at odds with the country’s safety regulations. More
and more frequently, homeowners want to adjust their property to reflect an
‘open plan’ layout. This simple yet effective architectural trend is derived
from an old Japanese tradition which merges rooms (i.e. living/dining room,
kitchen/dining room, or entry hall/living room) to let in more natural light
and give the appearance of a much larger space.
The difficulty associated with open plan design is that it carries
with it two central conflicting ideas: a space that is modern and valuable:
we’ve seen gigantic kitchen-diners, futuristic staircases and amazing mezzanine
loft spaces in high-end Hollywood homes. But also, an insecurity that open plan
may not work for the majority of standard homes and spaces.
Open plan is valuable for three reasons. Firstly, it looks
good: impressive open spaces are lighter, tend to be aesthetically more
pleasing, and remind us of the homes and imagined lifestyles of the wealthy and
successful. Secondly, its practical; if you want to host a dinner for ten, one
large room is going to work much better than two small reception rooms.
Sometimes you just need a larger space. Finally, open plan layouts — especially
those that eliminate hallways and corridors — make better use of space and make
properties look bigger, ultimately increasing their value.
The challenge of open plan design, however, comes with
implementing this concept in countries like England and the UK, where safety
regulations are strict and often require a layout plan that contains small
closed-in spaces in order to help contain potential fires and allow for an easy
escape route with minimal danger of exposure.
Thankfully, these limitations are quickly coming to an end
thanks to an invention known as “automist.” Automist is a water
mist system that uniquely uses a small amount of water (5-6 litres per
minute) and has a small, condensed design makes it convenient for spaces where
it is difficult to retrofit the sprinkler system. Because of its
design you can plug It into a space relatively easily. You don’t require a tank
or run a network of pipes. Instead you can install the device in a similar way
to installing a power shower.
Beautiful, environmental, practical, legal and so valuable
it pays for itself. The future, it seems, is open!
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