When thinking about family time, what comes to mind? In addition to fun activities, you probably also want a comfortable space to spend time together in the evenings and on weekends. This is why the family room has become such an important part of the home, often divided from the more formal living room. You can set your family room up with the basics, like a television, game system, and a couch, but that might not be enough to make it truly comfortable for the whole family. Here are some elements that play a role in how cozy and comfortable your family room is.
Color Scheme
A key factor in making the family room more cozy is making sure that the color scheme is inviting and pleasant. It’s amazing how influential a fresh new color is on a person’s mood. When you’re choosing the room’s color scheme, there’s no one right color or tone to focus on.
Each color has its own function. For example, colors like red and yellow are considered happy and invigorating colors while pink and green are mood boosters. Allow the family to choose which colors would be best to apply. Keep in mind that a little color boost goes a long way, so if painting your walls a vibrant color seems daunting, you always opt for splashes of color throughout the room instead.
Seating
Of course, if you want to watch movies, play games, or simply spend time together in the same room, everyone needs somewhere to sit. Try adding a few different seating options throughout the room, and make sure there’s plenty of space for everyone. After all, no one wants to be constantly squished together on the sofa or wants to be the one always relegated to a cushion on the ground.
If you have a big family or if your family likes to spread out, you might consider adding a sectional to your family room. Sectionals are pieces of furniture that are usually made of two or three pieces to form an L- or U-shape. They can seat four to six people comfortably as opposed to a couch, which can usually only fit about three people comfortably. Sectionals can also be used to divide up a large room. It creates an intimate sitting space where you and a few family members can chat or watch a movie together while other activities go on in other parts of the room.
Fireplace
If your house has a fireplace installed most likely, it’s in the family room. This is a great place to gather all winter long or even all year long. If your fireplace looks dusty and old, though, it’s not the welcoming centerpiece it’s meant to be. Take some time to clean it up, get it and the chimney inspected, and make sure it’s in good shape. You can also make some cosmetic changes to help it better fit your family and decor.
Pillows
Pillows are an excellent way to knock out two birds with one stone as they provide color and comfort to any room. Add a few to the couches and armchairs, but consider keeping some larger pillows and cushions tucked away, too. You can pull these out late-night movie marathons and other family activities. When you have friends or extended family visiting, plush cushions can make easy extra seating for younger kids.
Getting some quality family time together doesn’t have to be complicated. Take the time to make your family room as cozy and comfortable for your family as possible. Even on a budget, a few simple changes can make your family room somewhere everyone wants to spend time.
