As a young interior designer, I am frequently faced with the statement "your home must be amazing," hinting that I live at the Taj Mahal or some grand property. Truth of the matter is, I spend much of my time thinking about rooms for my clients and their families, leaving little time for my own home. Someone recently asked me the very difficult question: "what would you include in your dream family room?" I have to admit, I am my own worst client. I am indecisive, incredibly picky, and I have to consider all options before making a final decision. Daily exposure to expansive collections of fabrics, lighting, and furniture sometimes makes designing for myself the hardest. There is always the fear, that I will commit to a fabric or a chair, and then I will suddenly find an alternative option that I prefer. Style is forever evolving, however, there are a few pieces that I know will remain current.
When I design for myself and my clients, I try to remain true to these classics, ensuring that the spaces I create will be enjoyed for years to come. My intent is to create comfortable, warm, inviting, and functional spaces. Below are a few of my "family room classics:"
1.) A well built and comfortable sofa. I typically like a slipcovered sofa in the Family Room for a relaxed look, that is easy to clean.
2.) A substantial coffee table, which I believe is the true heart of the room. Depending on the use of the space either an upholstered ottoman, a wood table, or an oversized trunk. I tend to stay away from glass and metals in the family room. This is one of the most frequently used spaces in the home, why not make it comfortable?
3.) Side chairs, for additional seating during family gatherings and parties.
4.) Table lamps, creating a well-lit and welcoming space.
5.) Window treatments are key! Many feel that they can skip this item altogether. I typically suggest full length draperies, for a soft affect, while adding privacy and additional pattern/color to the space. I also love to layer a natural wood weave shade with a linen pattern drape, for added texture.
With these classics in mind, here is inspiration for my dream family room. I hope this inspires you to redesign, update, or maybe enjoy your family room as styled today. Happy Sunday!
Get the look, sources and credits:
- Olive Tree via internet source
- Tree Basket, potterybarn
- Chair, hickorychair
- Drapery Fabric, Kerry Joyce
- Wallcovering, Cowtan & Tout
- Painting by Edith Prellwitz
- Fabric Pairing, Kerry Joyce, Cowtan & Tout, Carleton V
- Coffee Table, via internet source
First image via @againteriordesign on instagram
