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5 tips to create the ultimate family room

Looking to furnish a living room that the whole family enjoys spending time in? These smart tips help create a room that is both functional and stylish, keeping in consideration everyone’s favourite activities, whether it’s movie nights, crafting, or quiet time. Read on for tips to create a multifunctional space that everyone will love.

A man and a child sit on a VIMLE 3-seat sofa bed placed back-to-back with a VIMLE chaise longue where a woman is sitting.
A man and a child sit on a VIMLE 3-seat sofa bed placed back-to-back with a VIMLE chaise longue where a woman is sitting.

1. Flexibility is key: Use multifunctional and moveable furniture

Create flexible areas for different activities like a study area with easy-to-move furniture like this desk on wheels and trolley. Store school stuff in the trolley, and easily roll it away when done. Create a play area with a play mat and tents that fold up, freeing up floorspace when playtime is over.

Two BLECKBERGET swivel chairs, desks, desk lamps and an ÖVNING trolley form a study nook under the stairs.
A HÖVLIG children’s tent is in the corner of a yellow living room with cushions and an octopus BLÅVINGAD soft toy in it.

2. Maximise storage

As the family room is the hub for plenty of different activities, storage is important to keep things tidy. Open storage is great for easy access, like for books and often-used toys. You can use boxes for a neater look. Or opt for closed storage for an uncluttered visual expression.

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Black JÄTTESTA shelving units are placed against a light blue wall, with BARNDRÖM boxes and books on its shelves.
A white SMÅSTAD wall cabinet is on a yellow wall, with BARNDRÖM boxes on its shelves, and a folded children’s tent beside it.
See all storage & organisation

3. Create cosy corners for moments of calm

Allow for some privacy by creating cosy nooks that give everyone a bit of quiet time. A chaise longue – placed back to back with a sofa – or a children’s swivel armchair are wonderful pieces for this. Add cushions, throws and soft toys to make it even more comfortable.

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A light blue VIMLE chaise longue with cushions is in the middle of a living room with yellow walls close by a staircase.
A child is sitting and reading inside an IKEA PS LÖMSK swivel armchair next to a bookcase combination with glass doors.
See all armchairs & chaise longues

4. Create zones for different activities and add good lighting

Consider how your family will use the room, and create zones accordingly. Here, we created an island for relaxation with a sofa back-to-back with a chaise longue, and a study/craft area underneath the stairs. Use a mix of mood, task and general lighting to create a warm and inviting space.

The basics of living room lighting
HOLMERUD side tables are placed on the sides of a light blue VIMLE 3-seat sofa bed back-to-back with a VIMLE chaise longue.
A BLECKBERGET swivel chair, two FUBBLA LED work lamps, desks and an ÖVNING trolley form a study nook under the stairs.
The basics of living room lighting

5. Don’t forget to have fun!

Transform your family room into a cinema with a simple tug. Project movies on a block-out roller blind for an unforgettable, larger-than-life viewing experience. And don’t forget your favourite snacks – served on the ever-reliable trolley.

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A yellow living room has a roller blind on one wall, in front of a VIMLE 3-seat sofa bed and HOLMERUD side tables.
A VIMLE 3-seat sofa bed is made into a bed with cosy bedlinen. An ÖVNING trolley is beside it with popcorn and drinks.
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See lots more inspirational living room tips

A girl singing into a microphone in front of a dark red curtain, with two persons in a light beige SÖDERHAMN sofa looking on.

Living room ideas making space for family fun