Family
living rooms fulfill many needs. With multitasking amenities and customized
storage, these organized living spaces are perfect combinations of lovely
and livable with room to grow
Style doesn't have to trump storage. Creating a sense of
togetherness is simple when kid-friendly features blend with livable style in
your home's gathering spaces. Here's how to make a living room store everything
and work for your family.
Storage Bench
Pack two functions into one with a storage bench. A cushion on
top provides a place to sit, while cubbies below can be used for books or bins
full of toys, games, or crafts supplies.
Console Cabinet
In an open living room floor plan, consider a console cabinet
an essential piece. Position one behind a sofa that "floats" in the
middle of a room and you'll have a spot for lamps to illuminate the seating
space, a surface for placing drinks, plus plenty of storage.
Tiered Coffee Table
While the surface of a coffee table offers plenty of function,
get even more from this living room staple by choosing a tiered model. Stack
books and magazines on the shelf below, and use baskets both on and underneath
the tabletop to corral other items.
Built-Ins
Invest in built-ins to give your living room architectural
presence as well as an organized appearance. Frame a doorway with shelves, or
consider cabinetry around a fireplace.
Nesting Tables
Nesting tables, usually in sets of two or three, stack
together but can be pulled out for extra tabletop surface as needed. They take
up less floor space -- ideal for small rooms -- but still offer room for
storage.
Console Table
Like its cabinetry cousin, a console table adds storage but
provides a different look. Baskets or bins can be lined up beneath for
additional storage.
Hutch
Hutches, pie safes, cabinets, and armoires are stylish storage
additions for more formal or traditional living rooms. These handsome pieces
bring substance to a space while providing plenty of concealed storage for
organizing necessities.
Coffee Table with Drawers
Drawers stacked beneath the top of a coffee table can conceal
all sorts of items such as board games, remotes, magazines, and more. Since
these pieces tend to be a bit more bulky than leggy, open coffee tables, they
work best in larger or more open spaces.
Skirted Table
Turn a simple table into a storage gold mine with the addition
of a skirt. For a DIY version, first cut and hem a piece of fabric to size.
Then place hook-and-loop tape around the top edge of the table and attach the
skirt. Slide storage bins or carts beneath the table.
