top of page

Designing a Family-Friendly Home: Stylish, Tidy, and Welcoming





Hey there, lovely families! As a busy mum and an interior designer, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to create a beautiful home that stands up to the chaos of family life. But fear not! With a few smart strategies, you can have a home that’s stylish, tidy and welcoming, without feeling sterile. Let’s dive into some tips to make your space work for everyone, big and small!


Choose Durable and Easy-to-Clean Materials

Kids are adorable, but they sure know how to make a mess! That’s why durable and easy-to-clean materials are your new best friends.

  • Furniture: Think stain-resistant fabrics like microfiber or leather. These are lifesavers! And for an extra layer of protection, consider washable slipcovers.

  • Floors: Hard flooring like laminate, vinyl, or hardwood is way easier to clean than carpet. If you love rugs, go for ones made from natural fibers like wool—they’re tough and look great!


Smart Storage Solutions

Clutter happens, but it doesn’t have to take over your home.

  • Multi-functional Furniture: Look for pieces that double up as storage. Ottomans with hidden compartments or coffee tables with drawers are perfect.

  • Built-In Storage: Built-ins are great for maximizing space. Think floor-to-ceiling shelves or custom cabinets in living areas and bedrooms.

  • Baskets and Bins: Cute baskets and bins are perfect for stashing toys, blankets, and other bits and bobs. They’re stylish and practical!


Designate Play Areas

Let’s keep the chaos contained with specific play zones.

  • Playroom: If you’ve got the space, a dedicated playroom is awesome. Use colorful storage and display shelves to keep things organized.

  • Play Corners: No playroom? No problem! Create play corners in your living room with rugs or furniture to define the space.


Kid-Friendly Yet Stylish Decor

Yes, you can have style and kid-friendliness together!

  • Durable Decor: Choose decor that can handle a bit of rough and tumble. Avoid fragile items or place them out of reach.

  • Family-Friendly Art: Frame your kids’ artwork alongside professional pieces for a unique and personal touch.

  • Neutral Base with Pops of Color: Stick to a neutral palette for big pieces and add fun pops of color with accessories like cushions and rugs. Easy to update as the kids grow!


Flexible and Adaptable Spaces

Your home should grow with your family.

  • Modular Furniture: Modular furniture can be rearranged to suit your changing needs. Sectional sofas are great for this!

  • Adaptable Spaces: Design multi-purpose rooms. A guest room can double as a playroom or home office with clever furniture choices.


Create a Welcoming Atmosphere

Your home should feel cozy and inviting.

  • Warm Lighting: Use warm, ambient lighting like table lamps, floor lamps, and string lights to create a cozy vibe.

  • Comfortable Seating: Make sure there’s plenty of comfy seating for everyone. Mix it up with sofas, armchairs, and floor cushions.

  • Personal Touches: Add personal touches like family photos, travel souvenirs, and heirlooms to make your home feel uniquely yours.


There you have it! With these tips, you can create a home that’s perfect for your family—stylish, tidy, and oh-so-welcoming. We can help you implement all these tips, so email us today clare@clarehudsondesign.co.uk




6 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page