While I love living in an open concept house, I totally agree with the points that you disagree with. We don't have a lot of guests all that often, so I agree

While I love living in an open concept house, I totally agree with the points that you disagree with. We don't have a lot of guests all that often, so I agree if "a handful of times" is "between 10 and 15 per year." There is no question that open concept doesn't allow to heat or cool this room but not the other. It's all or nothing for us. That was totally different when I grew up. Whatever happens in the kitchen, we can hear it perfectly on the other side of the house in our bedroom if we leave our bedroom door open. That would not be the case if we had some kitchen door somewhere in between. Similarly, when our daughter has friends over in the dining area or living area, we typically move to the bedroom because the family/TV room is too noisy then.