Create a decor that will get them talking

Decorating can cast a huge influence on the family dynamic.

We know, for example, certain colours and natural light can play a positive role on the mood of people in the home and we use this knowledge to our advantage.

Did you know that creating a conversational seating area can help bring family and friends closer together? Conversation is a lost art and needs to be brought back into our daily lives. The best place to start is in the home.

Creating face-to-face seating in a living room or family room, for example, invites and supports chatty gatherings where ideas are shared. If the occupants are facing each other in a close grouping, it’s easier to begin a conversation. This is why the family dinner table is so vital to the family dynamic.

Take stock of your seating arrangements in your home as they are today. If the furniture is placed around the perimeter of a large room the seating is too far apart. If space allows, bring the items into the centre of the room in a face-to-face or L-shaped grouping. You may have to switch out a chair or two to make it work — so do a little planning ahead before you start moving heavy furniture around.

In a large or long, narrow room place the furniture into two groupings. Perhaps a cosy setting for two when you and your spouse are alone and a grouping of four in another area of the room for when family and friends visit.

Defining the setting

If possible, your conversational grouping should have a focal point. This might be a fireplace, with chairs/sofas flanking it. If you don’t have a fireplace, use paint and art to create a focal wall that will help cement the seating arrangement. Place an area rug under the furniture grouping to ground and define the grouping. (The usual rule for area rugs is all four legs of all furniture should be on the rug, but in a casual space you can get away with just having the front legs on the rug without worry.) As you can see in our feature photo (courtesy of CIL) the intimate grouping is defined by both the artwork and the area rug. The earthy wall colour helps define the space. The window acts as the focal point in conjunction with the artwork on the other wall. There is a place to put a beverage, and the toss cushions add colour and comfort.

Remove distractions

If you can, try to remove the television and computer from the conversational area or at the very least ensure these items are turned off when family gathers (unless you’re watching a movie together). Opt instead for something such as a fish tank or tabletop water fountain, which is calming and sets the mood for great discussion. Soft music can also set the mood for a good visit. Create a house rule to keep cellphones and other devices out of the conversation area. (This might be a tough one, but stick to your guns.) We don’t have a television in our living room and find it’s a great space to sit and chat.

Keep them comfy

People will sit longer and stay put if they are comfy in their seat. If it’s time for new furniture take stock of the options available that will promote family closeness. Perhaps a sectional sofa where the seating can be reconfigured easily might fit the bill. You may choose to go with four comfy armchairs. The decision will be based on your specific needs, and of course, your space and budget. Do an internet search on conversational furniture groupings to get some ideas of what might work for you.

As well, your guests need a place to put down a glass or cup of coffee. Arrange your seating around a large, inviting ottoman on which trays can be used to hold beverages. Family can put their feet up on the ottoman as well, which will keep them comfortable. Use small side tables, if needed, between chairs. Consider multifunctional pieces that have storage as well as seating to house comfy throws and extra toss cushions to maintain the comfort factor.

A well-lit room can also make a difference. In the evening, table lamps and accent lighting will provide a soft glow for intimate conversation. During the day, let the natural light in. It will energize your guests.

In the master bedroom create a cosy spot for two in a bay window or nook if space allows.

This is a great place to have your morning coffee or evening aperitif after a long day.

If a conversational furniture arrangement isn’t for you, then perhaps a games table, for playing cards or board games, would work. A games table might work in the corner of your living room or rec room. Again, no techie games allowed, just good old-fashioned fun.

You have the power to bring the family closer together simply by moving your furniture. Who knew?

Connieoliver2016@gmail.com