"The closed floor plan, especially the closed kitchen, can help save energy by the simple principle of not heating and cooling rooms that are not currently in u

"The closed floor plan, especially the closed kitchen, can help save energy by the simple principle of not heating and cooling rooms that are not currently in use, as well as by isolating rooms we want to keep warm or cool." This definitely depends on where you live. Here in Hawaii, an open floor plan is crucial for the natural breezes to be able to flow through the house. Fail that part, and you're stuck with totally closing up and air conditioning your house, which at $0.35/kWh really hurts. Plus why live in Hawaii if you're going to close yourself into an air tight box?