Automist enabling new wave of open plan homes

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!