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There are many moves that can win you dad of the year – scoring the kids tickets to the championship game, nailing the perfect french braid for picture day, or creating the most awesome family room ever – one where the whole family will eat, snuggle, laugh and play for years to come.
Of course, every family is different but most people probably agree that function, comfort and fun are all essential to a family room everyone will love. The room has to work when everyone’s in it and everyone should want to be in it.
There are tons of options for changes and additions to revamp your family room. Here are a few ideas to get you started. Whether you wind up with the hottest paint colour of the year or the best space heater for large room, the additions are sure to create a great space for the family to come together again and again.
Functional Family Rooms
Consider the number of family members, the amount of time spent at home, and how you typically like to interact.
For instance, do you come together to game and watch movies, or do you prefer to be together but doing your own thing? Are there items like blankets or puzzles that are routinely used in the room? How far are you from the kitchen?
Functional items to consider:
- modular furniture pieces with storage
- swiveling mount or wall brackets for television
- mini refrigerator
- Bluetooth speakers
- lamps and/or light dimmers
Comfortable Family Rooms
Consider the preferences and common complaints of your family members to determine how to make the room comfortable for everyone.
Is your daughter always buried under fleece blankets? Do your son’s socks often smell? Does your back or neck ache after watching TV? Got an allergy sufferer in the house?
Add comfort with these items:
- a portable space heater
- an air purifier
- an essential oil diffuser
- cushions, ottoman and/or footstools
- laptop tray
And say bye-bye to back pain with these useful tips including advice for screen time.
Fun Family Rooms
Consider how you can inject more fun and enjoyment into the room? Play with lighting, colours, and toys for all ages – adults included!
Add energy with these items:
- Wii gaming system
- ping pong table
- mermaid tail blankets
- your favorite family photos
- fun snacks and drinks (check out these great recipes)
The Process
When adding functional and comfortable pieces to your home, take the time to research and compare products. Home appliances like space heaters and air purifiers are not all created equal. You’ll want the best size, style, and features to fit your family’s needs.
And when it comes to the fun stuff, make it a family affair. Allow the kids to have a say and help choose their favorites to add to the space. (And if you have a teen who’s ready for a space of their own, here are tips to make the transition to basement living work).
Valuing and prioritizing time together is a sure-fire way to earn that father of the year title. Enjoy the process of creating and continually evolving a space for everyone to socialize, rest and play.
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This content is sponsored by Mike John.
Photo: Shutterstock