The secret to making an open-plan layout look welcoming is thoughtful zoning. This method breaks a cavernous interior up into distinct areas for living, dining, and cooking, creating cozy containment in each smaller space. For a guide on this technique, look no further than Justin and Hailey Bieber's former Beverly Hills home.
Back in 2020, Justin took to Instagram to share a glimpse into the living room of the couple's modern Monterey Colonial-style home on Tropical Avenue, affectionately known as 'The Tropics.' Two gray shag rugs define separate areas for eating and hanging out. On the other side of the room, a white kitchen island sets apart the cooking area with a casual dining bar defined by chic barstools (similar to these elevated Linen Seats from Saks Fifth Avenue).
Though Justin and Hailey sold the home in late 2021, their clever kitchen/dining room/living room set-up still stands as the pinnacle of warm zoning inspiration for the coming year. Their living room layout proves that when designed with intention, open plan will never go out of style.
So, how can you tap into the lessons from Hailey and Justin's California space in your own home? The biggest pitfall of open plan designs is that they can feel cold, so the room must be designed to invite warmth at every turn. Martin Waller, Founder of global design house Andrew Martin advises, 'Open-plan spaces are increasingly popular and are great for entertaining, but can sometimes feel sparse or empty.'
He recommends: 'Use contrasting colors to demarcate distinct spaces and inject personality into different areas of the room. Choose darker colors to create intimacy in a dining area and opt for neutral shades to make kitchens appear brighter. Wallpaper can also be used in certain areas of the space to create a distinct zone.' We see this advice playing out in the Biebers' gray rugs on their wooden floors.
Natural materials and cozy textures bring warmth into the distinct zones of Justin and Hailey's living room. These are our editors' picks for recreating their look.
This gorgeous shag rug has a pretty, textured pile and a highly-appealing shape. It's ideal for anyone who wants to zone their living room like the Biebers.
Beautiful Drew Counter-Height Stools (Set of 2)
Crafted from solid wood for lasting durability, these counter stools are perfect for an open-layout kitchen where your counter doubles as a dining space. They're available in two finishes – warm honey or sleek black – to match your home.
American Plant Exchange Windmill Palm Tree
Beautiful greenery is one of the best ways to make an open-concept space feel welcoming and lived-in. These stylish palms are our editors' top pick.
Orren Ellis Black Rectangular Dining Table
A dark dining table is ideal for creating distinct zones in your living room. I love the idea of pairing this with a gray rug, as we see in the Bieber home.
This stunning white-and-wood sofa combines elegant curves with a modern aesthetic. Its light, airy design makes it an effortless way to brighten any living room, exactly as Justin and Hailey have done.
Light Blue Barrel Accent Chair
Justin and Hailey use round chairs to block off the living room portion of their open space, and these pretty and soft ones are an excellent option. Their soothing color and swivel capability make them ideal for long hours spent hanging out.
The industrial lighting above Justin and Hailey's dining table helps set this area apart. Living room lighting can be used in a similar manner. Martin advises: 'Use statement lighting to create different zones, that each have a purpose. Hang pendant lighting over dining areas and use task lamps in corners of the room to create cozy areas for reading.'
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Separate areas can also be created more deliberately. 'Open furniture, such as cabinets, bookcases, or shelving can be used to create different zones, without making the space feel closed in,' says Martin. 'Alternatively, a folding screen can provide privacy, something that is often lacking in open plan living.'
Finally, the two gray rugs create a distinction between dining room and living room in Justin and Hailey's home. Jodie Hatton, Design Manager at heritage carpet company Brintons advises replicating this technique. She states: 'We strongly believe that rugs are timeless and continue to be relevant due to their versatility and ability to transform a space. Whether used as statement pieces or subtle accents, rugs offer flexibility in design and function. They can define areas within open-plan spaces, add warmth to hard flooring, or introduce a pop of color and texture to any room.'
Open plan layouts haven't died, they've simply evolved to be more textured and characterful.
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