We all ache for a place where we can retire to after a long day and finally be ourselves. A place we can take off the mask and dance with nobody looking or just have a drink and binge-watch movies. A place infused with our sense of style, a place that we can call ours.

We do not have to sacrifice our sense of style to do this. Here are 6 ways to create a family-friendly living room that aligns with your sophisticated taste and yet upholds family values, so that no one is neglected.

When selecting a piece of furniture for a house where kids would be part of, it is important not just to consider style but also the possibility of spillage, dirt, wear and tear, and scratches which is almost inevitable especially with little children below age 10. However, these incidents can be drastically reduced. One way to have a win-win situation is to invest in leather. They are easy to clean in case of spillage and can withstand just about anything. Leathers are also trendy. 

Although open floor plans dominated the interior décors of the 1970s, they are beginning to fade away as more house buyers veer towards more closed designs as privacy has become a rare commodity.  However, this seeming disadvantage comes in handy with those living with kids as every nook and cranny of the house is within your sight, and it will then be easier to keep an eye on the kids. It does not mean this design cannot be fancy and appeal to your adult taste. 

One way to include a playful tone to your family living room is to display the kids’ artworks. If you opt for a neutral-coloured room, incorporate pops of colours like yellow, green, blue or pink, as kids are more drawn to brighter colours. Also, despite the chaos of raising a family, there is nothing that provides a brief hiatus more than a family room designed in a way that says “have fun”.

This is another critical factor to be considered when creating a family-friendly room. Choose paints that dirt and spills can be easily wiped off from. Eggshells, satin, low sheen, semi-gloss and gloss finishes are more preferable than matte paint as they have better cleaning property. Additionally, the army green colour scheme used gives off a vogue vibe and creates an inviting lure for relaxation.