Every family, it seems, faces the same dilemma.
How do you create a child- and pet-friendly decor that’s functional, safe and stylish?
Believe it or not, you can have it all!
Today’s home furnishings give you the best of all worlds, letting you create a beautiful, personalized space that meets your practical needs.
At Lifestyles Furniture, our showroom is filled with gorgeous, well-crafted pieces that are built to last as your family evolves through every life stage. Plus, almost every item in our store is customizable, so you can choose the perfect upholstery fabric that matches your decor and stands up to those inevitable spills and splatters.
To get you started, here are some easy tips for choosing family-friendly furniture for your home!
#1: Durable & Spill-Proof Materials
Quality furniture that’s built to last will continue to look fabulous for years, even through the wear and tear that comes with family life. Although sturdy frames and stain-resistant upholstery may cost a little more up front, they’ll reduce the need for replacements in the long run. The best news of all is that it’s easy to find durable materials in a range of styles and colors.
Look for a well-crafted microfiber, leather or similar upholstery that’s easy to clean and resists stains and moisture. Another good option is furniture with removable slipcovers that can be switched out and machine-washed as needed.
You can also design your furniture layout to reduce the risk of mishaps. Place a long, slender table between your sofa and the wall. It’s a great place to keep drinks, remote controls and figurines away from curious little hands and paws.
#2: Safe & Stylish Options
If you’ve got kids or pets, keeping them safe is a big priority. Sharp corners on tables, chairs and shelves, for example, pose an injury hazard. Look for round tables and soft corners for less “ouch” when your little ones go exploring.
You’ll also want to choose decor items that are free of small, detachable parts – like screws, bolts or marbles – that could post a choking hazard. Keep fragile materials like glass or porcelain figurines on a high shelf, out of the reach of youngsters and animals. Instead, accent your furniture with shatterproof picture frames and cozy blankets.
And if you’ve got a child who’s just learning to walk, a thick, soft rug will help to cushion any falls. Choose a fun pattern in colors that complement your curtains, lamp shades and the rest of your decor.
#3: Lots of Storage
It’s no secret that children have lots and lots of stuff – such as games, books, clothes, school supplies and sports gear. That makes it extra challenging to keep a neat and tidy home.
Incorporate smart storage into your decor to keep clutter at bay. Coffee tables with built-in shelves, or benches with secret compartments, offer an excellent place to keep a few favorite toys within easy reach. Here are a few other clever storage solutions to try out:
- Cubbies along the wall for keeping shoes, coats and bookbags out of the way.
- Pretty storage baskets for discreetly stowing toys under chairs and tables.
- Plastic storage bins for organizing toys and games inside chests, credenzas or cabinets.
#4: Play & Work Zones
Depending on the size and layout of your living room, designate a “kid zone” where youngsters can have some fun with grownups nearby. Include bright colors and patterns in your decor to give the space a cheerful atmosphere. Here are a few more ideas for creating a living room layout for all generations:
- Set up a toy chest next to a small table in one corner of the living room where kids can enjoy age-appropriate activities.
- Place child-sized chairs near the coffee table for games, coloring books or puzzles.
- Hang a corkboard along one wall where your little Picassos can proudly display their drawings alongside other decor items.
#5: Furniture that Changes with You
Ask any parent and they’ll tell you kids grow up too fast. In the blink of an eye, that bundle of joy you bring home from the hospital is learning to drive and holding a diploma. Why not invest in furniture that will be there for all those special memories as the years go by?
- That pint-sized chair your kids used when they were toddlers may take on a more nostalgic, decorative role once they outgrow it.
- The storage bench that once held their toys could eventually be used for other items, like pillows and blankets.
- That living room corner where your preschooler once played with blocks can become a study area when they get older.
Find the Perfect New Furnishings for Your Family
For nearly half a century, Lifestyles Furniture has proudly served families right here in Columbia and surrounding Mid-Missouri communities. Our friendly local designers have an in-depth knowledge of the latest furniture trends as well as the needs of our neighbors.
We invite you to drop by our showroom to find quality, well-crafted furnishings that will last through every stage in your family’s journey. You can also call us at 573-874-1550 or contact us online at any time.
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