Your living area should be a welcoming space that can seamlessly adapt to the needs of every family member, all while fostering a sense of comfort and connection. For MAFS star, entrepreneur and author Jules Robinson, her space serves as both a cosy retreat for relaxation and a vibrant hub for hosting friends and family, making it the perfect place for quality family time.
As the mother of two young boys, Jules loves a multifunctional lounge to maximise her space, whether it’s being used for work, play, or socialising. Below are some tips on how to strike a simple balance with flexible layouts, versatile furniture, and thoughtful design elements, so you can create a space that’s as practical as it is inviting.
1. Flexible layouts
Having flexibility in your living room layout is something many families look for. A modular lounge is a popular choice, as it is adaptable, multifunctional, easy to use, and can be reconfigured. The idea is to create an area that you can customise and reconfigure based on your family’s needs, whether that be for special occasions or everyday activities. This adaptability ensures the space stays organised and comfortable, regardless of how the family’s needs may change over time.
Having an open plan layout makes your living room the optimal space for both play and gatherings. “For me, it’s all about creating a warm, effortless atmosphere where family and guests can unwind and have some laughs,” Jules says. It’s important for Jules’ space to accommodate different family activities (playtime, watching TV, eating dinner), so she can enjoy seamless interaction between family and guests, even when different activities are happening simultaneously.
When you have young children like Jules, using modular furniture with built-in storage means that the kids’ toys can be packed away to leave the space open and can be updated based on needs, socialising or the season.
2. Zoned areas
Setting up multiple zones in your living room helps to create a family-friendly space. A few small tweaks can help zone your space, such as adding a rug to pull the room together or hanging a mirror to create different eyelines. Zoning a space helps you create a variety of spaces to entertain, socialise and relax.
“Relaxing on the couch is my go-to most evenings. I love nothing more than chilling, laying down and watching a film or series,” she tells Home Beautiful. Her Amart Sunni lounge can be configured into an L shape, perfect for those cosy weekends in. “In the evening Ollie loves to have a blanket and a cuddle with me on the couch,” she says.
Having a designated play area or nook allows for a creative spot to play, read or create with children and spend quality time together.
Soft furnishings are also a subtle way of making the space feel dynamic. Mixing soft throw blankets, pillows and rugs adds depth and warmth to the space. “They help visually define each zone,” says Jules, as well as being great for tummy tickles!
If you need to work from home during the day, incorporate a small desk in the corner. If it’s separate enough from play zones, it helps to not only minimise distractions, but keeps work separate from family time.
3. Dual-purpose furniture
Incorporating a mix of modular sofas and movable pieces, like armchairs and ottomans which can be rearranged as needed for different-sized guests gives you the flexibility to fill or open your lounge as you please.
Without having to sacrifice your space, the option of a lounge which can be reconfigured into a pull out sofa bed like this Amart Josephine Double Chaise is perfect when family comes to visit, and has the added bonus of storage under both chaise ends (perfect place to stash any errant toys in a hurry). It also makes a cosy snuggling up spot to watch a movie with the whole family.
For Jules, the living area is her haven in the home. Prioritising a peaceful lounge space will create an area you can decompress and relax or cuddle up with loved ones. “I always try and keep this space really tidy and clean so I feel calm and peaceful here,” Jules adds. She maintains this sense of relaxation by using furniture pieces with built-in storage (such as coffee tables or side tables) helping her to store items like blankets, toys, or remote controls, while also offering additional seating or surfaces.
4. Smart lighting
The use of adjustable lighting, such as overhead lights, task lighting and ambient lighting, are simple but effective ways to make a room multifunctional. Whether it’s using mood lights to create a calming ambiance for a family movie, or reading a book with the kids under a lamp in the lounge – lighting plays a huge part of how Jules loves to use her lounge space.
Dimmer switches or colour-changing LED bulbs allow you to adjust the mood. For cosy evenings in, you can bring a warmer, softer feel to the space or brighten up the area when you’re hosting multiple people. Kids also love it when they can play in different light colours like blue, green or purple!
5. Kid-friendly design
When it comes to creating a space for everyone, this also means it needs to be child safe. “We do try to have everything safe and no sharp edges as most of our guests also bring little people with them,” says Jules. Choose furniture with rounded corners or padded edges to prevent any injuries and soft plush rugs to catch tumbles or falls.
To keep kids engaged and stimulated in the space, consider adding playful patterns, bright colours, or fun artwork in some areas to make the space lively and welcoming. Incorporating elements like chalkboard walls, magnetic boards, or a small reading nook, which can all be easily and neatly packed away when needed, can engage children and help to spark their creativity.
For over 50 years, Amart has been helping Australians transform their houses into homes by creating beautiful spaces that are stylish, functional, affordable and comfortable. Shop with Amart online or across 68 stores Australia-wide.
