Decorating a Family Room That’s Chic, Not Cluttered

Each week Mansion Global tackles an interior design topic with an elite group of designers from around the world who work on luxury properties. This week we look at designing a family room that’s functional and chic.

Family rooms have a certain reputation for being relaxed. And by relaxed, we mean seriously lived in. While a family room should feel comfy, it doesn’t have to show its wear, tear and all its contents.

The challenge is keeping it chic when it’s also a high-traffic zone (think: kids, dogs). To make your space both user-friendly and sophisticated, follow these tips from the pros.

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Think about the layout

"It might make more sense to section off parts of a large room with dividers for different uses.These can double as storage shelving and break the space into different zones, so the dining area can be used for a dinnerparty while the kids’ toys/ play area is out of sight. For a recent project for Hampstead Manor in North London, we used two lacquered stained walnut veneer dividers with antique brass metal details to split the room into three parts. The solid elements at the bottom double up as storage for kitchen items and children’s toys. The upper parts are for putting treasured objects on display. Our aim was to give the room a luxurious-yet-functional feel, perfect for family living. We also included a wall of bookshelves to showcase special treasures, books, and standout toys.

"When designing the space from the outset we thinkcarefully about where the sockets for technology are going to be located as well as if the room will be used for entertaining, and how many people will likely use the space—and then work from there. Be realistic, if you watch a lot of television, make it comfortable; if you read a lot, have great lighting.

"Patterns hide mess while also adding interest and narrative to the space. And, they’re often more hard-wearing because they cover up wear and tear. Textured cushions and wall coverings can also hide a multitude of sins."

—Stephen Crawley, co-founder of London-based Bowler James Brindley

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Consider wear and tear

"Choose materials that perform well. Crypton fabric for sofas and chairs is a great option since it’s nearly indestructible. Wood can be durable, too, but keep in mind, it can also show nicks easily. If you opt for a wood coffee table, for instance, add a tray on top to limit damage. Metal frames are usually most practical when it comes to resiliency.

"Use cubbies, totes, and storage spaces wisely. Floating shelves are a great feature to add on top of a cabinet to show offfamilyphotos or any breakable items. These should be kept high for all to see but out of reach of prying hands. Add a shorter, linear cabinet that has cubbies and doors to hide kids’ toys. Conceal the TV in a cabinet or console for a chicer look, along with the accompanying wires."

— Interior designer Jaclyn Galbraith of Robare Custom Homes in San Antonio, Texas

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Merge form and function

"I’m a big believer in using ‘the best for every day,’ rather than spending a fortune on something that is only used once a year. For a home in Royal Regent’s Park in London, we turned a ballroom into a family room so it could become the heart of the house and everyone could enjoy it. Theroomis now multi-functional, as it serves as afamilydrawingroom, a casual space, an entertaining space, and adining and TVroom.

"While using rounded corners for safety and user-friendly fabrics such as leather and suede for comfort to fortify the space, adding texture to the walls with wallpaper lends depth, using cabinetry provides hidden storage space for toys etcetera, and decorating with a mix of patterns, textures, and layers creates an elevated space."

－Nicola Fontanella of Argent Design, based in London and Miami