Broken-Plan Living: Flexible Spaces for Modern Living

Segmenting a large space into smaller, purpose-led zones increases versatility and functionality. In homes, broken-plan layouts can create dedicated areas for reading, working, relaxing, entertaining, or exercising-without cutting off light or airflow. The concept applies equally well to outdoor spaces like patios, terraces, and courtyards, where visual and spatial divisions can help organise distinct activity zones, from alfresco dining to yoga or lounging.

In commercial and hospitality spaces, such as restaurants, cafes, bars, clubs, hotel lobbies, lounges and offices, a broken plan creates separate, spaced-out zones that not only offer improved privacy, but also help manage foot traffic and create a more comfortable, flexible environment for guests and patrons, an increasingly important consideration in modern hospitality and commercial design.

Fireplaces are no longer just cosy additions, they’re key architectural tools. Increasingly, they’re being used by designers and architects as dual-purpose features: dramatic focal points and natural room dividers.

“We continue to see innovative projects where EcoSmart Fires serve as a central element to divide and define zones,” says Stephane. “From elegant private residences to boutique hospitality venues, our ventless fireplaces allow for flexible, impactful installations without compromising on aesthetics or air quality.”

EcoSmart’s Flex Series is a prime example of this design versatility. With over 200 models available-including single-sided, double-sided, corner, peninsula, and island options, bioethanol fireplaces offer sleek, smoke-free solutions for room division and visual cohesion. Powered by clean-burning e-NRG bioethanol, they require no chimney, flue, or gas connection.

“The Flex Series gives builders, designers, and homeowners the freedom to rethink how fire can be incorporated into their spaces,” Stephane adds. “They’re perfect for multi-sided viewing and can visually connect two areas while giving each its own identity.”

For custom spaces, EcoSmart’s ethanol burners can be integrated into bespoke cabinetry or feature walls, they’re ideal for apartments, restaurants, or offices where traditional fireplaces aren’t viable. These installations function as ‘fire walls’ that bring warmth and ambiance across zones while preserving a shared atmosphere.

The rise of multi-sided fireplaces- double-sided, triple-sided, even four-sided - is more than a passing trend. These fire features allow designers to divide rooms visually while preserving sight lines and an open feel.

“If you want to define two spaces but keep them visually linked, a see-through fireplace is ideal,” says Stephane. “They offer warmth and drama from multiple angles and can seamlessly unite indoor and outdoor zones.”

Whether you're transforming a loft-style apartment, an open-plan living-dining area, or connecting an interior space to an outdoor room, see-through fire features add flexibility and flair-while anchoring both sides with a single striking element.

EcoSmart’s portable fire tables offer a similar design impact-with even more flexibility. These multi-functional pieces are perfect for zoning open areas, inside and out.

With a wide range of sizes, styles, and finishes, fire tables can act as centrepieces for conversation areas, outdoor lounges, or restaurant patios. Many are designed with enough surface space to hold drinks or small plates, while taller models can double as bar or dining tables.

The broken-plan concept isn’t confined to interiors. Outdoor spaces are now seen as extensions of the home, designed for all seasons. From separate zones for cooking and dining to spaces for relaxing or working, gardens and patios are increasingly multi-use environments.

“Today’s outdoor spaces are about year-round livability,” says Stephane. “People want to host, relax, exercise, and even work outside-regardless of the season. And in commercial settings, outdoor zones are more important than ever for dining and entertaining.”

To make these outdoor areas usable throughout the year, combining smart heating and ambient design is key.