What Are “Great Rooms,” and Why Are They So Popular?

In the world of house hunters and home builders, there’s a trend we’ve been seeing that doesn’t seem to be disappearing any time soon…

What is it you ask?

Great Rooms.

Now, we know you’re asking- What in the WORLD is a Great Room??

Just imagine you invited some friends over for a Superbowl Party. You’re in the kitchen finishing up some last minute details on the appetizers, the guys don’t want to miss a second of the action on the big screen, and the women are gathered around the table chatting about this and that, tuning in for the must-see commercials.

So what’s unique about this particular scenario that you’re imagining right now?

It’s all happening in the same place. You guessed it — the Great Room!

A Great Room is a large, centrally located room that can function as a living room, dining room, and even the kitchen.

Here are 3 of the big reasons so many of our homeowners love their Great Room:

1) Everyone is together!

People are wanting one big space for their kitchen, living room, and dining room. By not creating defined spaces with walls that separate, everyone can be where the action is. Those in the living room can interact with with those cooking in the kitchen, bringing people together and providing easy access to food and entertainment.

2) Less Space to Clean

Formal living rooms and dining rooms are becoming less and less popular because people are asking the question: why would you have a space that goes unused? Not only are you paying for the extra square footage and furniture you never use, but you also have to clean it!

3) Transition Without Separation

Say you love the concept of a Great Room but want something to define the spaces — what can we do?

By adding a beam or ceiling detail, different flooring or light fixtures, we can signal transition between the kitchen, dining area and living room without putting up walls.

Conclusion

While we’re noticing a trend in those wanting a Great Room, it really is just a personal preference. There is most definitely a place for a formal dining room and living room, but for some…a Great Room is much more functional.

The choice is yours!

To see some of the Great Homes that we’ve built for our homeowners, head over to our gallery and take a peak. We think you’ll like what you see!