Interior Design for Family Living
Interior design isn’t just for adults! Beautifully created home environments will give a boost to anyone who lives in them, young or old. The design that you choose needs to suit your life right now and for the foreseeable future. When it comes to family living with children in the house, there needs to be a lot of scope for flexibility so that any design lasts the test of time. Let us help you with your family-friendly home design with these ideas.
Versatile Furniture
Flexible and multi-purpose furniture can suit a wide range of different needs, and certainly come into their own for family living when space is so often stretched. Versatile furniture can serve several purposes and therefore is able to adapt to different stages of family life. Take a modular sofa for example, it can be arranged to accommodate gatherings or provide extra sleeping space for guests. Or an extendable dining table will suit daily life for everyday meals, and gives you the option to welcome extra dining guests when it’s opened out.
Durability is Key
With a busy and hectic life it’s vital to select materials and finishes carefully. A considered choice will give any item a longer life and make its maintenance easier. Look for stain resistant fabrics for furniture and hardwearing flooring like hardwood or laminate that can withstand heavy foot traffic and the occasional spill or accident.
Durability doesn’t need to be boring, as you can see with the Smithy Sofa from Loaf. There are a variety of colours all in Loaf’s ‘clever’ fabric which is spill-resistant and a must for family living. Elegance and durability are not mutually exclusive, you can have both as you can see with the Lyvia Bench from Sweetpea and Willow which is also available in durable fabrics.
Create Zones
Functional zones help you to maximise the usability of your home, and it helps all family members have their own little space. For each room, consider the different activities that take place in there, and designate an area for each. In a living room, you might have a storage and play area for toys and a nook with a desk for a work area.
Flexible Storage
Storage is frequently a key concern in a family home, but it is vital for keeping clutter at bay and keeping organised. Look for storage solutions that can be reconfigured or repurposed as needs change. Bookshelves with adjustable shelves, for example, will evolve with the family. Baskets and bins are perfect for keeping toys tidy and can be used for other things over the years. Here are some storage solutions that we love!
Cotswold Company do a range of blanket boxes, including this Wide Blanket Box; we have featured it in Chantilly White, but it is available in a range of colours to suit any décor theme. These are sturdy boxes that can store a multitude of things, and we love that they are delivered ready-assembled.
The Stockholm Storage Bench from Noa & Nani is great for family living. Add a cushion to the top, and it’s a useful bench for sitting while shoes are put on. The half rattan baskets mean that it’s visible what’s inside and children can easily find the shoes or toys they’re looking for. Without the baskets, you have the option of low-level shelving.
For a little fun and personality, the Morris Monkey Pink Wooden Storage Cabinet from Oliver Bonas is a lovely addition.
Design for Growth
Family needs will change over time, and anticipating the coming changes will allow you to plan your décor, fixtures and fittings for the longer term. You might want to consider evolving interests and hobbies which need a space, a nursery that can be transitioned into a child’s bedroom or a home office that also doubles as a guest room. Versatile furniture and suitable storage will help you with the changing needs of your family.
The Frances Woven Rattan 2-Door Desk from Daals can double as an art or homework area or a dressing table. Its functions will change as your children grow. The Nebel Wardrobe from Wayfair, which has a gorgeous high-end look, would suit your child’s bedroom with the shelves that could be used for toy storage but are equally great for a future shoe collection.
Add Personality
We feel this is key in any home, but when it comes to a family or multi-member household incorporate elements to reflect the personalities and interests of each family member. You can do this easily using things such as wall art, throw pillows or accessories. These can be swapped out and updated as children get older to suit each age state. Indoor-outdoor rugs are a great option here. Their design and finish have come a long way; they are durable and easier to clean and maintain but still have a nice soft feel. The best of both worlds that are needed in a family home. This In- & Outdoor Rug from Benuta is a wonderful example of this.
The key to achieving amazing interiors for family living is planning head and anticipating the changing needs of everyone. As a general rule either choose less expensive pieces that can be swapped out when needs change, which gives you an opportunity to pick up more trend-led or current pieces, or invest in sturdier items that are versatile and have a timeless feel.