How to Create Spaces That Encourage Family Time

1. Connect the living room and kitchen
An open or semi-open kitchen adjacent to a living room can foster constant physical and visual contact amongst the family during the day. To unify the two individual spaces and build a meaningful junction, place the dining space or breakfast bar in the intermediate space.

Simply adding a couple of stools to the kitchen island can encourage various activities to be performed at this spot, without compromising the placement or function of the dining table.

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2. Make the dining table work extra shift
The dining table, too, is a great place to rub shoulders, thanks to its inward-facing layout. Adding comfortable upholstered seats, banquet seats, extra cushions and throws to the dining set can further prompt the family to use the dining table all through the day. It can double as a study table for the kids and a workstation for you when needed; and on Sundays, it could be the ideal place for spending time together over board games.

Get inspired by these eye-catching dining tables and chairs

This offbeat dining table is integrated with the kitchen island. It stands out, blurring boundaries and creating an interactive space.

3. Offer multiple seating options
Providing clusters of different types of seats can let each family member create a zone of their own where they can work at their tasks and still remain connected to others sharing the same space. If your living room flanks a balcony or garden deck, you can add extra seating for those who wish to withdraw from the close family group but still stay in the proximity.

Check out these space-saving seating layouts for compact balconies

4. Create a multifunctional room
A simple way to bring the whole family together (without making them take extra time out of their schedule) is to assign multiple functions to a single room. In this picture, all the work desks for the family are stationed right in the home office. The big table at right can double-hat as a work table for kids’ craft projects and hobbies, as well as a dining table at mealtimes. Ideal for working parents to keep an eye on the kids doing homework. Win-win.

Note: Mixing up contrasting activities together can cause more trouble than harmony. For instance, you can blend the library and lounge in one room but the game room does not go with the study.

5. Take the fun outdoors
Have spare space in your backyard or front garden? Elevate it by introducing a gazebo or shaded outdoor seating. Spending time outdoors is good for the overall wellbeing of the body and mind; spending it with loved ones will only add to the benefits. Outdoor hangout spaces are great for unwinding with the family after a long day or to conduct a hobby session with kids on off days.

8 Fabulous Outdoor Seating Arrangements

If you do not have enough space in your garden, you can create a similar arrangement on the terrace. Set up comfy seating and a pantry on the terrace or balcony deck so you and your family can spend time together, snacking, chatting, and playing cards or games in the evening.

Read more:
Stretching Space: 9 Kicky Ways to Create a Room Within a Room
Expert Speak: How to Make Your Home Adapt to a New Normal

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