The family room is probably one of the most frequently used areas of your home. In addition to being the place where everyone gathers to watch TV, play games or share family time, it may also be the room most frequently seen by guests. This can make decorating a family room a bit of a challenge, but certainly a challenge you can overcome with some creative ideas.
One of the things you need to do is decide on the focal point of your family room. Is it going to be the entertainment center, a fireplace or the French doors that provide an impressive outdoor view? Once you’ve made that decision, you can begin arranging the furniture so that a sitting area provides a direct view of the focal point.
There are usually a variety of activities going on in a family room. Sometimes, these activities occur simultaneously. Therefore, it’s helpful if you decorate the room so that there is some separation of space. A room divider or tall bookcase can help divide a large family room. You can create a play area or reading area on one side of the divider and a conversation area or TV viewing space on the other side. If the living room is small, accent rugs and furniture arrangement may be the best way to distinguish specific spaces.
The furniture your choose for a family room needs to be durable enough to withstand your family’s activity level. Stain resistant furniture would be an excellent choice. You also want comfortable furniture in the family room. A sectional sofa is a great place for kids and adults to lounge and watch TV. The entertainment center you select should be one that features plenty of storage space. An ideal way to control clutter in a family room is to include baskets in your decorating plan. Let each family member have a basket for storing their personal things such as toys, games, magazines, their favorite blanket or other items.
The family room is the ideal place to display family photos. An enlarged photo or canvas print of favorite family vacation moments makes great wall art for the family room. Comfortable rugs are almost an essential part of a family room decor. Floor pillows are also great accessories.
The family pet could also benefit from its personal space in the family room. You might want to consider choosing an end table that features a place for your dog or cat to sleep. Pet bed designs are now so exquisite that they can be an attractive part of your family room decor. Even though your dog may love playtime with the kids, it will also appreciate having a quiet area all its own where it can rest and simply be an observer.
Decorating trends such as color choices, fabric patterns and furniture styles can be used as a guideline when decorating a family room. However, the ultimate room design and decor should be accommodating to your lifestyle and your family’s activities.
