Jul 14 2010
Create a Focal Point in Your Living Area with Furniture
Every living or family room should have a focal point. What that focal point will be will differ depending on how you use your living room. For most families, the television is the focal point, because it is viewed so much. For others, the family room may be used for relaxing by the fireplace and reading a good book.
No matter for what purpose you use your living room, the furniture should be arranged in a way that best suits the use of the room. This article offers tips on creating a room that not only looks attractive and appealing, but is convenient for the way in which it will be used most.
Is Your Family Into Television and Electronics?
If you have small children or teenagers, the answer to this question is probably yes! The television or entertainment center will be the focal point of the room. Arrange your sofa, chairs, and ottoman in a way that allows everyone to comfortably view the television while they relax. If you or your kids play electronic games frequently or listen to music, create a special corner, perhaps by a window, with chairs and a couple of over-sized pillows that can be used for seating.
Entertaining Guests
Are you the type who has close friends over often? If you do, you may use your living room more for socializing and visiting than for watching television with the family. If entertaining is your thing, arrange your furniture in an intimate setting so that it is easier to visit. Pull furniture away from the walls and arrange it around an area rug, with a low table between the sofa and other chairs. Add a few beautiful plants and light candles to set a relaxing, welcoming mood.
You may be the type of family who spends a good deal of time reading, studying or just relaxing by the fireplace. For this type of living room, arrange furnishings where everyone has a good view of the beautiful fire crackling in the fireplace. Place a lamp on a small table next to the recliners or any furnishings that are used for reading. Arranging a chair near a window is always a good idea for those who are voracious readers!
No matter how you use your living room, make sure your furniture is made of a suitable material. If you have small children, you may not want extravagant fabrics that could be easily stained or torn. Leather or vinyl is good if you frequently have spills that need to be wiped up!
You might also consider furniture that is light weight, especially if you plan to rearrange often to freshen up the look of the room. No matter what type of furnishings you decide upon, the most important factor is comfort. No one wants to sit on furniture that is too hard, too soft, or just plain uncomfortable! Your family spends a good deal of time in the family or living room, so you want to make it as inviting and relaxing as possible.
Decide how your living room is used the most, and use your furnishings in a way that is convenient for the way you live.
