Some homeowners seem to have it all. They balance timeless style with the latest interior trends, minimalist chic with a sense of got-it-all. Most times, these homeowners do not have live-at-home children.
For those with a more chaotic coop to manage, even keeping your house standing upright can seem like a daily challenge. There’s so much to deal with and so little time that the place which should be the bedrock of your health and happiness becomes an anvil around your neck.
This is why it’s worth putting aside some time to rethink the whole thing. To look from space to space and make a year-long plan on how to optimize one room at a time for ease of maintenance, family-friendly shareability, and happiness.
You might start with the living room – the hub of weekend living and weeknight relaxation. When it’s time to replace the furniture or put up new shelves, consider opting for wood. Exposed wood can reduce your blood pressure, which is handy when the kids are refusing to go to bed.
Wood creates a natural feel that can counter the effects of ubiquitous video games and devices and give you the feeling of a cabin escape even when you’re firmly trapped in suburbia. Pair it with family photos to increase the sense of togetherness and happy reflection when you’re trying to relax.
The kitchen is a livelier hub. The traffic sees in the morning and after school! To create more of a feel of a family space rather than a smash-and-grab food hole, think about shifting things around to create a more welcoming loitering area. If you’ve got a room for a table, a breakfast bar, or a beanbag, it can be a great way to encourage the kids to show their faces and spend time with you sooner than that instant before chow time!
Here’s a charming visual guide to how you can apply such principles all around the house. Which room will you optimize for happiness first?
