Open-Plan Living Trends in Perth: Why More People Are Removing Walls
Discover why open-plan living is transforming Perth homes, the benefits of wall removal, and how to achieve the spacious lifestyle you’ve envisioned.
Introduction
Step inside almost any modern Perth home today and you’ll see the same thing: bright, open spaces where the kitchen, dining and living areas flow seamlessly together. Gone are the days of small, compartmentalised rooms. Homeowners are choosing to remove walls and embrace open-plan living as part of both renovations and new builds.
But why is this trend so strong in Perth right now? From lifestyle to property value, from natural light to family interaction, open-plan spaces are shaping the way West Australians live. This article explores the reasons behind the shift, the benefits of removing walls, and the practical steps involved if you’re considering the same transformation in your own home.
The Rise of Open-Plan Living in Perth
Over the last two decades, open-plan designs have gone from a luxury feature to an expected standard. In a city where indoor–outdoor living is part of the culture, homeowners want interiors that reflect this openness.
Some key drivers include:
- Lifestyle changes — Families want to cook, study and entertain in shared spaces rather than behind closed doors.
- Property market expectations — Buyers in Perth now see open-plan layouts as more modern and valuable.
- Climate considerations — With abundant sunshine, open layouts maximise natural light and cooling breezes.
- Renovation simplicity — Removing a single wall can completely transform a dated layout.
Benefits of Open-Plan Living
1. More Natural Light
By removing internal walls, light can travel further into your home. Perth’s sunny climate makes this especially rewarding, cutting down on artificial lighting during the day.
2. Better Airflow
Cross-ventilation is improved when walls aren’t blocking breezes. This can reduce reliance on air conditioning and make homes more energy efficient.
3. Family Connectivity
Open layouts mean cooking dinner while chatting with kids doing homework or hosting friends without feeling cut off.
4. Entertaining Made Easy
Large open spaces are perfect for gatherings, with kitchens flowing naturally into dining and living areas.
5. Property Value Boost
Real estate agents consistently report that homes with open-plan kitchens and living areas attract more buyers and higher offers.
Why Perth Homes Are Perfect for Wall Removal
- Older layouts — Many Perth houses built before the 1990s were designed with smaller, separate rooms. These lend themselves to open-plan conversions.
- Double brick construction — While structural, brick walls can often be safely replaced with steel beams, opening up space without compromising strength.
- Outdoor lifestyle — Sliding doors to alfresco areas pair naturally with open-plan interiors, blurring the line between indoors and outdoors.
- Renovation trend — As suburbs like Subiaco, Mount Lawley, and Fremantle modernise, wall removals are common to update character homes while keeping their charm.
Popular Wall Removals in Perth
- Kitchen + Dining Room
The most requested change, creating a modern “great room” feel. - Lounge + Living Room
Knocking down dividing walls makes spaces feel larger and more versatile. - Kitchen + Living Room + Alfresco
A full transformation that delivers seamless indoor–outdoor living. - Hallway Walls
Removing narrow hallways can create open entrances with a wow factor.
Challenges & Considerations
Structural Safety
Many of the walls that homeowners want to remove are load-bearing. These require engineering approval and steel or LVL beams to redistribute weight.
Council Approvals
Local councils in Perth require permits for structural alterations. Working with a licensed builder ensures compliance.
Hidden Services
Walls often contain electrical wiring, plumbing, or air-conditioning ducts. Relocation adds cost but is essential for safety.
Acoustics
Open spaces can echo. Many homeowners incorporate rugs, soft furnishings, or acoustic panels to balance sound.
Case Study: A Modern Open-Plan Renovation in Mount Lawley
A character home in Mount Lawley recently underwent a transformation. The owners removed two central walls separating the kitchen, dining and lounge. A steel beam was installed to carry the load of the tiled roof. The result was a light-filled, social hub perfect for entertaining. The property’s market appraisal increased significantly, reflecting how valuable open-plan living has become.
FAQs
Do I need a builder to remove a wall?
Yes — if the wall is load-bearing, a structural engineer and licensed builder are required by law in Perth.
How much does wall removal cost?
Costs vary depending on the wall type, structural supports needed, and finishing. Non-structural walls are cheaper to remove, while load-bearing walls with beams are more expensive.
Will an open-plan layout affect my heating and cooling?
It can. Larger spaces may take longer to heat, but improved airflow often reduces summer cooling costs in Perth.
Can wall removal be done in heritage homes?
Yes, but it requires extra care. Engineers ensure structural integrity while preserving period features.
Tips for Planning an Open-Plan Renovation
- Engage professionals early — A builder and engineer can advise whether a wall is load-bearing.
- Think about flow — Visualise how the new layout will work for everyday living.
- Plan services relocation — Consider plumbing, electrics, and air-conditioning ducts before demolition.
- Budget realistically — Include finishing touches such as flooring repairs, plastering and painting.
- Futureproof your design — Create flexible spaces that will adapt as your family’s needs change.
Key Takeaways
- Open-plan living is one of the strongest design trends in Perth.
- Removing walls can dramatically improve light, space and resale value.
- Structural safety, permits and professional guidance are essential.
- The investment pays off in lifestyle benefits and property market appeal.
Final Word
Perth homeowners are increasingly choosing to knock down walls and open up their homes. The trend is driven by lifestyle, design and market demand — and it shows no signs of slowing.
If you’re thinking about creating a brighter, more spacious open-plan home, professional wall removal is the safest way to get there.
👉 Contact Wall Removals Perth today for expert advice and a free consultation.
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