The return of the wall: How the pandemic is transforming home layouts

High-walled sofas and other furniture (like the modular S5000 Retreat system by Thonet) can create a room within a room. Here tables and sockets are added to turn these spaces into workplaces. Photo: Giacomo Giannini/Thonet/dpa

The majority of new designs for homes and offices in Western countries share one trademark feature: an open-plan layout.

The kitchen, dining room and living room all flow into one another. The study, playroom and, in extreme cases, even the bedrooms are part of a large space, almost completely without walls. It's been the dream for years.