According to recent research, 72 percent of Americans spend most of their
quality time in the living and family rooms. Certainly, many homeowners will
start their home makeover where the family gathers to watch television, light a
fire, play cards or just hang out.
The American Furniture Manufacturers Association and interior designer
Catherine Bailly Dunne, A.S.I.D., provide a plan for choosing the right
furniture for the family room to ensure everyone's needs are met – from a place
for dad to put his wide-screen TV to a place for the children to store their
toys.
Functional Furniture
Take your entire family's needs into account. For example, how much seating
do you need for your family – and guests? How much space do the kids need for
homework and playtime? Would you benefit from an entertainment center to
organize your audio/visual equipment, CDs and games? Ask yourself these and
other questions to be sure to prioritize the pieces you need.
Comfort is Key
Always consider comfort when renovating the family room. Besides the bedroom,
this is the one place where curling up to relax is a top priority. Think about
reclining furniture, extra pillows or an ottoman to rest your feet. Because
there are so many furniture choices, you will find pieces that suit comfort and
style needs. Place tables close to seating – ideally, a table should be within
arm's reach of each piece of the sofa or chair.
Fabrics and Colors
Because the family room is meant to be lived in, you may want to select soft
and durable fabrics, such as chenille, corduroy or leather. Certain upholstery
coverings and colors are more spill-resistant than others. If this is a priority
for you, ask the sales associate in your furniture store for suggestions.
Storage Space
There are ample solutions for adequate storage – which is a must for books,
games, blankets, firewood – all of your creature comforts. Today's larger, more
luxurious armoires provide abundant shelving for housing – or hiding – TVs and
other electronic equipment. Choose coffee- and end tables with drawers or
shelves. A decorative bowl or basket makes a convenient and inexpensive tabletop
container for keeping track of remote controls.
Accessories
Lamps area family room must-have for perusing the newspaper or TV guide. Look
for wall art that reflect your family's hobbies. And, don't forget throw pillows
and blankets for Sunday afternoon nap time.
"Your family will thank you for creating a room where they feel comfortable
at home and love to be together, says Dunne.
