When it comes to interior design, I never forget that I’m creating a space where people will live and connect with one another. Part of the beauty of a successfully designed home, office, or business is the potential for creating memories. So, as we move into the holiday season, I wanted to share some simple ways you can increase opportunities for connections through smart design.
1. Place Seating with Intention
One of the easiest ways to promote comfort and encourage conversation is by placing furniture in a horseshoe, semi-circle, or circular formation. This will promote eye contact and spur more conversation.
Give guests and family members plenty of seating options and flexibility, as well. When you provide seating flexibility, such as a sectional, you will find that each family member will find their own comfort zone, whether it be your little ones snuggling up or your teen kicking up their feet while chatting about their day.
2. Invite Everyone to Stay for a While with Comfortable Furnishings
Modern design doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. The marriage between comfort and beauty is one of the best ways to increase human connection within a home.
To create a comfortable living area, always include throw pillows. While these pillows may seem like a non-usable accessory, you can bet that their presence will encourage family members to relax in for longer periods of time.
Additionally, always make sure your sofa allows you and guests to sit back and relax.
3. Create a Design That Allows People to Break the Rules
Whoever decided that you should keep your feet off the furniture must have lived a very quiet life. When you use soft textiles and cozy textures, you can anticipate your friends and family feeling more at home in your home. This includes kicking their feet up, laughing until the early hours, and making memories to last a lifetime.
4. Lighten the Mood with the Right Lighting
Harsh lighting makes people want to flee. Warm, inviting lighting invites everyone to stay a bit longer–and to relax. In this design, you will see that the only direct overhead light is diffused through the whimsical glass bubbles. The other light sources such as the armrest of the sofa and the corner lamp soft the mood and warm the space while the natural light is energizing and refreshing.
5. Use Convertible Seating in Small Spaces
If you’re tight on space, you don’t have to sacrifice family visits, family time, and good conversation. Instead, choose versatile furniture pieces that do double duty. An ottoman that can serve as seating is an excellent choice or padded dining chairs that can transition from dining use to visit with a quick swivel.
Take the Opportunity to Bond with Loved Ones in a Beautiful Space
Every interior has the potential to promote joy, laughter, and love. Choosing the right lighting and furniture is key to creating opportunities for making memories with your family and friends. Unsure of how to transform your house into a home that promotes family time? Shelly David can help. Contact her today to learn more.