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Last updated on February 22nd, 2025 at 11:47 am
Recently, there’s been a lot of talk about “living room families.” This influencer-led trend is anchored on the belief that families who spend time together in common areas are more likely to feel bonded, safe, and connected.
While there’s no concrete evidence to back this up, surveys have shown that kids still do spend more time at home than anywhere else. For that reason alone, it pays to create cozy, comfortable spaces where the whole family can hang out and unwind together.
If you’re furnishing a family room or an informal living room, it’s tempting to get distracted by all of the “fun” possibilities like the TV, gaming setup, or even accent lights. But, given that you’re likely to spend most of your time sitting here, it make sense to begin your room design with seating that will anchor the entire space.
So, what should you look for in a couch for your family room? Here are some tips.
Buying a Couch for Your Family Room? What to Consider
A sectional build
Family rooms serve multiple functions, so you need a sofa that can keep up with your needs. Big, roomy couches are a good bet, since these will give your family plenty of space to sit up, lay down, or get comfy however they choose.
If you have a large or growing family, you want to be able to all sit together to watch TV, talk, or enjoy a movie night. With this in mind, it’s worth considering L-shaped couches. Because of their design, you get ample seating for your whole crew.
Another bonus? Many L-shaped couches are actually sectionals. This means that you can reconfigure the separate units based on your space or on the activity at hand. Depending on the manufacturer, most sectional L-shaped sofas come with armchairs, a chaise, and an ottoman. Some models even offer convertible headrests and sleeper pull-outs so you can easily tailor your design to fit your room and your lifestyle.
Built-in storage
Since a family room is meant to be used for a variety of activities, having extra storage means less clutter and more convenience.
Fortunately, many couches now come with subtle built-in storage spaces. More often than not, these design features come in modular pieces.
Usually, the largest section (most likely the chaise) will lift up and act as a storage box. This can provide easy access to the most-used family room items like remote controls, chargers, game boards, blankets, and more.
Homes with a minimalist aesthetic will be especially happy with this kind of hidden storage. And, these pieces make it easy for kids to pitch in and clean up too. Best of all, sofas with built-in storage can be affordable, with retailers like IKEA selling them at a variety of price points.
Style & fabric
Last, but just as importantly, you need to consider the both the the sofa’s upholstery and style. Because your couch will serve as the family room’s focal point and get loads of use, you want the style, color, and upholstery texture to be both attractive and practical.
So, when it comes to style, consider your room’s overall design—whether it’s modern, traditional, or somewhere in between.
To keep the mood bright yet calming, go for earth tones like warm-toned greys, calming browns, or even rich greens. You’ll also want to choose textiles that are soft to the touch. This will make lounging more comfortable, and help enhance the room’s cozy vibe.
Natural fiber textiles like cotton, wool, or linen are ideal. Not only are these welcoming and gentle on the skin, but they’re also eco-friendly and durable. If you have young kids or pets, we like leather for ease of cleaning or tightly woven fabric that a pet’s claws won’t catch on.
Of course, using slipcovers is an option too–at least while your children are little or until that rambunctious puppy grows up a bit.
Wrapping Up
Creating a cozy, functional family room starts with choosing the right sofa. Be sure there’s enough seating for everyone, plus the flexibility to reconfigure your space as needed. Built-in storage adds an extra layer of convenience, keeping your family room clutter-free and inviting. And when it comes to style and fabric, striking the perfect balance between aesthetics and practicality is key. Opt for durable, easy-to-clean textiles that will stand the test of time—and the antics of kids and pets alike.
Remember, your family room is a sanctuary where you can all come together to relax, connect, and make memories. So, take the time to select a couch that not only meets your family’s needs but also fits your style. Whether you’re watching a movie, playing a game, or simply lounging around, the right couch can make all the difference in creating a space where everyone feels at home.
Also read:
The Best Calming Colors to Create a Cozy Home
How to Create a Cozy Home on a Budget: 6 Tips
6 Tips to Make Your Home Feel More Luxurious
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