Keeping your home running smoothly and looking beautiful when you have a busy family can be tough. Whether it’s toys across every surface, or the after-school chaos, there’s no shortage of messes to tidy up.
However, with some clever design decisions, you can create a space that’s both functional and pleasing to come home to. From your flooring to your furniture and layout, here are some key things to consider.
1. Embrace low-maintenance surfaces
Surfaces can easily become scratched and damaged if they’re not designed to withstand everyday family life. That’s why it’s important to choose surfaces that are durable, and also easy to maintain.
For example, scratch and stain resistant floors like luxury vinyl planks and hybrid flooring options are going to stand up to wear and tear far better than white carpets. Designed for durability, these floors are also easy to maintain – ideal for the business of everyday life. By the same token, quartz and engineered stone will make for a far more durable countertop than wood, and washable paint and/or wallpaper are always wise choices for walls.
Then there’s your furniture to think about. Consider selecting pieces that are easy to clean, made from materials like microfibre or leather. Basically any material that can simplify your cleaning routine is a good choice, as low-maintenance also tends to mean durable.
2. Make the most of multifunctional furniture
Speaking of furniture, multifunctional pieces can be lifesavers. Not only can they help make your home more efficient, adapting to different needs as they arise, but they also offer a stylish solution to reducing clutter.
There are plenty of options available, but some popular options include sofa beds and storage ottomans. A sofa bed is perfect for maximising living space without sacrificing guests’ comfort when people stay over, and storage ottomans allow you to design a lounge room that is spacious and beautiful while maintaining functionality. Extendable dining tables are also an ideal solution for those who like to host. Simply fold them out when you’re entertaining, and put them away for everyday use – that way you don’t have to worry about whether a massive table will work with the daily flow of your home.
3. Create zones for different activities
One way to keep everything organised and looking nice within your home is to designate zones for different activities. Much like how you’d create a home office, you can also design play areas for your little ones, and relaxation spaces for adults.
You don’t necessarily have to use room dividers (though these can be incredibly useful) as furniture placement can work wonders for sectioning off areas. Consider using storage cupboards or even bookshelves to block off certain spaces, creating a clear zone. Even the addition of a rug can help define a space, making this an ideal option for when you’re trying to make a room feel more spacious. It’s also a good idea to define dining areas, as this helps prevent little ones from leaving crumbs throughout the entire home.
4. Use clever storage solutions
Having enough storage in your home is key to maintaining both function and aesthetics, so it’s a good idea to add as much as possible. Built-in shelving is great for housing toys and showcasing achievements, while under bed storage can help hide away anything that isn’t needed often. You can also make use of decorative baskets and storage ottomans to make a home for items that are often needed in the centre of a room.
Not only will properly integrated storage solutions make it easier to keep your busy family home tidy, but they also make it easier to find things when you need them.
You don’t need to compromise on style to do this, as storage solutions are available in a range of finishes. Over the toilet storage in a bathroom, for example, makes the space more functional without making things feel cramped, while a window seat with built-in storage is the perfect way to maintain elegance in a primary suite.
5. Add personal touches with easy DIY projects
Although you want your home to be functional and tidy, you still want it to feel lived in. DIY projects are a great way to achieve this, as they add personality while also serving a purpose.
Simple projects like custom wall art or handmade cushions can really make a space feel more homey. You might even want to display some of your children’s artwork or school projects. Another great idea is to paint old furniture, giving it a new lease on life. Keep projects easy so everyone can get involved, and you’ll have a fun family bonding experience as well as some stylish new interior elements that really make your house feel like a home.
Enjoy your functional living space
While it’s easy for homes to become cluttered with everyday life, keeping things organised can make a significant difference to the look and feel of your home. You’ll be surprised how much of an impact these simple tips can have when you implement them as the transformation really is wonderful. With a little creativity and a few smart design choices, you’ll have a beautiful and functional home environment that’s easier to maintain in no time!
