Modern-day living rooms have so many conflicting priorities that organizing your home’s main family areas can feel like one of life’s trickier problems.
You want a space where conversation with family and friends flourish, the kids can play quietly, and you can binge on TV streaming services or play computer games to your heart’s content.
The multifunctional nature of a living room requires you to think much harder about the layout than a bedroom or dining room.
As an experienced local neighborhood agent, I know many buyers will note the difference between a single-purpose living room where all you can do is watch the TV, and somewhere that invites them into a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
So, having an open family room that works will not only improve your own experience of your home but be pleasing to prospective buyers when it comes time to sell.
Below are six tips to gain more use and enjoyment from your living room.
An app for that
There’s an app for everything, and room design is no different. Popular apps in this space include Planner 5D, HomebyMe, Ikea Home Planner Tools, Roomstyler and many more. So, have some fun with this project!
Have a vision
Decide and prioritize the activities you’d like in your living room. For example, if you want your kids to play there, put aside some space for toy storage. Or, perhaps you’d like to upgrade to a giant TV screen. If you love video games, consider where you’re going to store the console and games.
Measure up
You can’t plan appropriately without knowing the dimensions of the space. Measure the width and depth of your sofa, chairs and furnishings. You may need to face the reality that your furniture is too big for the space available.
Focal point
A living room needs a centerpiece. Many rooms tend to gravitate to the TV. However, a layout in which chairs and sofa face each other suggests a more social home. Others like their room to focus on a fireplace.
Choose furnishings
If you’re prepared to buy new furniture, seek out pieces that are in proportion with the room’s size. Be careful not to clutter the room. Try to limit the amount of furniture to only what is necessary, and no more. Otherwise it will feel cluttered.
Lighting options
Lighting is an essential element in any living room. Soft lighting is perfect for cosy evenings in front of the TV, but you need brighter lights to read a book or for the children to play happily. Consider a mix of fixed ceiling lights with dimmers and table lamps.
Storage synergy
You always need storage in living areas. It’s essential to have somewhere to stash items such as game consoles, kids’ toys, and useful items like a sewing box. Open shelving is fabulous for books and personal effects.