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Family room organization ideas


How to Organize the Family Room {November HOD}

Hey guys!  I’m back {a little late!} with November’s tasks for The Household Organization Diet.  Hopefully you had some time to get your master bedrooms organized last month and are ready to move on.  This month we’ll be working on how to organize the family room and/or the living room.

Before you even get started, make sure you have a clear idea of how you want the space to function.  This can really vary from family to family so make sure it’s going to work for you!  If you happen to have both a family room and living room space, try to keep the functions of each room separate and avoid allowing clutter from one space to spill over to the other.

So here is the plan for how to clean and organize the family room/living room this month…

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To keep myself on track, I also like to use a monthly calendar to write down when I plan on doing each of the tasks.  You can read more about how I use the calendar HERE.

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Are you ready to get going?  Here are some tips to help you organize the family room…

Determine the function of the space.

Depending on the size of your home, the family room can often take on many different functions.  It may be your main entertaining space or the primary area for the family to gather to watch television or movies.  It may also need to function as a small office space, playroom, or crafting area.  If possible, try to divide the rooms into “zones” for each of these functions.  You can then determine what you need and what storage would be appropriate for each of these mini areas.  The family room below is a great example of sectioning the room off into various zones.

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Determine your furniture layout.

If you only use the space for television watching, you’ll likely choose a different layout than if you use the space primarily for entertaining.  If you have multi-uses for your space, look for adding some furniture that can easily be moved around such as ottomans or stools that could be stored under a sofa table.  If you have toy storage or a small workspace, place them off in a corner if possible so it’s not the main focus of the room.  Proper furniture placement not only increases the function of the room but can also make it look and feel a whole lot bigger. There’s a great infographic here that has lots of ideas for how to arrange your furniture according to function.

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Declutter.

This is probably the most important thing when it comes to organizing any space.  DO NOT SKIP!! If the item does not fit into the functions that you have determined for your space, it either needs to go or be relocated to a location that you will actually use it.  For decor items, make sure that you still love them and they are highlighting your space rather than just cluttering it up.  I could speak on this category forever so go here for my tips on how to declutter any space and this post for specific ideas to declutter your family room.

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Find storage options.

Once you have decluttered all of those items that you no longer love, need, or use, it’s time to find some functional storage solutions.  Think back to your zones and determine what needs to be stored in each area.   You’ll likely want to have a mix of both closed storage to hide away items that you don’t want showcased as well as some pretty open storage to add some warmth and personality to your space.

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Closed Storage

There are many different options for closed storage depending on the size of your space and what you need to store.  If you’re short on space, look for furniture to pull double duty.  Look for coffee tables or end tables with drawers, or ottomans that have storage underneath.  Built in storage units with both closed cupboard doors as well as open shelving ideas are a great way to go if you have some money to invest.  For a less inexpensive option, look for stand alone storage units or storage cubes at big box stores such as Target or Ikea.

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Open Storage

Baskets and bins can add some beauty to your space while still providing some practical storage solutions.  Fill them with cozy blankets, pretty pillows, books or magazines. A ladder is a nice way to use up some vertical space and can hold blankets, magazines, photo frames, or hanging baskets.  While there are now many store bought display ladders that you can purchase, try giving a DIY a try.  They’re a really easy beginner project that can be made for around $20 or less.  We have a DIY storage ladder in our bathroom, but the idea could totally be adapted to the family room {or any other space!}.

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If you have specific size requirements, consider making your own storage bins.  These DIY wooden crates provide a huge amount of storage, but can be tucked away under the bottom shelving unit to keep things looking neat and tidy.

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Hide Cords

Cords from televisions, PVRs, video game consoles, lamps, etc. can quickly become a cluttered mess.  Try to keep cords out of sight whenever possible or look for cord tubes that will gather all of the cords up together if this won’t work. If you can, try to arrange items that need to be plugged in as close to an electrical outlet as possible, or use furniture, or a large bin or basket to hide the cords. Be careful of some of the DIY options out there, if you have live cords.  I’ve seen many ideas using cardboard boxes or material storage that just don’t seem safe.  Check out this post to find out how to hide television cords or use Command Brand cord organizers to minimize the look of loose dangling cords.

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I hope this has inspired you to start to organize your family room space.  With a little time and effort, it can be a wonderful place for you and your family to relax in and enjoy!  If you have any specific questions or trouble areas, feel free to let me know!

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Happy Organizing!

For more family room organization ideas, check out these posts…

How to Declutter the Living Room

How to Clean and Organize the Living Room

How to Remove Stains from Carpets

10 expert ways to neaten your space |

(Image credit: Paolo Moschino / Nicholas Haslam)

The pursuit of organizing a living room may seem like a never-ending mission, but keeping your living room organized is vital to achieving your dream space.  

Disorder is often a sign of a lived-in, homely space, and we'd hate to get rid of that notion entirely. After all, not every space needs to look like a minimalist or purist haven. What we do want to do is make things easier to locate – and, beautiful enough to admire every day.

We've asked the design experts to share the best living room organization tips they've learnt through the years – all for your living room ideas.

Organizing a living room

The pandemic re-shaped how we use our homes, so never has organizing a living room been more important. 

‘As we spend more time at home, we become more aware than ever of the need for space,’ says Simon Tcherniak, senior furniture designer at Neville Johnson . ‘Rooms that were once forgotten are being rejuvenated as tranquil spaces or multifunctional living zones.

'The living room is where the demand is greatest at the moment. Homeowners are looking for a dynamic space that allows them the time to focus on their daily tasks but also one they can close off in the evening to really benefit from the additional family time we have all been afforded in recent months. ’

‘We like to create spaces that feel layered and homely, that allow you to create mess without feeling messy or needing to put things away the second you put them out,’ says Camilla Clarke, Creative Director at Albion Nord . ‘It’s important to make a space feel relaxed and not sterile or unliveable. Try to create storage for the pieces that don’t need to be on show but make sure to celebrate and show off the things that bring you joy.’

These are our favorite, tried and tested ways to organize a living room, according to experts.

1. Declutter visible surfaces 

(Image credit: Richard Powers/Future PLC)

Organizing a living room can create the illusion of space, so it's especially important to declutter surface areas in a small living room – but be realistic before setting out. It’s never going to be entirely possible to live without various small and useful things, which need storing away somewhere, believes Sandrine Zhang Ferron, founder of Vinterior .  

‘Instead, create small areas of living room storage that are both practical and add style to your space, from roomier pieces like freestanding cabinets, down to side tables and living room shelving which can be nicely squeezed into an alcove or corner.’

2. Convert the space under the stairs – if you have an open-plan living room

(Image credit: Roundhouse)

Built-in living room furniture will make every nook and cranny work as hard as possible and offers the chance to be inventive when it comes to finding extra space that can house shelving and drawers. 

‘We’ve seen substantial growth over the past few years in homeowners converting their under-stair area – in an open-plan living room – due in no small part to the increasing strain our homes are under in terms of space,’ says Simon Tcherniak, senior furniture designer at Neville Johnson. 

‘Currently, the focus seems to be on using under stair ideas as a storage space or workspace area for all the family – though it’s also being transformed into more of a multifunctional area, especially now that more of us are deciding to renovate rather than relocate.

3. Hide behind a screen

(Image credit: Paolo Moschino / Nicholas Haslam)

‘We love using screens to divide rooms,’ says Paolo Moschino, head of interior design firm Nicholas Haslam . ‘For me, it’s very important not to disclose everything at once and that is what screens are perfect for; they hide a surprise behind them and, especially for a large room, they confine the space and create coziness. As a bonus, if you move to a new house you can just fold your screen and take it with you to new adventures.

Alternatively, room dividers are a wonderful way to make use of unexploited space and to create a broken-plan layout within the home,’ says Simon Tcherniak, designer at Neville Johnson. ‘When designing a room divider to fit around the home’s natural architectural features, consider using extra tall bookcases – perhaps with the addition of a ladder – to make use of the height. You could also opt for open or hidden shelves which allow you to either display your ornaments or hide clutter.

4. Plan for a multi-use living room

(Image credit: Future)

Over the past couple of years, those of us lucky enough to have a dedicated room in which to shut ourselves away have gratefully recognized the peaceful retreat they provide. However, now working from home is likely to be the norm for many of us, we are thinking about how best to incorporate home office ideas into our living rooms. But how to add beauty to what is, after all, a functional living space? It can be done. 

To organize a living room – one that doubles up as a study – and for it to look truly serene, storage or living room organizers that blend into the background is essential for retaining a composed look. Again, take note of the built-in shelving and desk in this curated scheme. It’s subtle to the point of being invisible, allowing the decorative elements of the living room to take center stage. 

5. Make space for treasured items

(Image credit: Future)

Few of us are happy with the idea of getting rid of favorite books, so unless the house is very large, organizing bookshelves in an ever-expanding home library is the challenge. After exhausting space on the living room shelves – including double stacking if necessary – have a look around to see if there’s any ‘dead’ space that could be put to better use. 

‘Many older properties have natural shallow recesses and alcoves – within the lounge or family room – making this suitable for books or objets d’art,’ recommends Eamonn Agha of Huntsmore , a design and build company. ‘This immediately makes the home feel warm and lived in.’ 

You can also look at boxing in radiators and building living room bookshelf ideas around this – it has the effect of drawing the eye to the books, not the joinery.’

6. Access all areas

(Image credit: Future)

When in search of extra living room organization space, make the most of ceiling heights available. Built-in joinery or off-the-shelf solutions can provide the perfect amount of extra room to house items only used for special occasions or rarely read books. 

However, where possible, think about adding a ladder for access. ‘They work particularly well in period conversions,’ recommends Annie Ebenston, designer at Blakes London . ‘Why waste all that high-level storage potential when you can design in a ladder. Aside from the obvious practical benefits, they add character and a focal point to a room.’

7. Keep everything in full view

(Image credit: Future)

Keeping objects in full view may seem counterproductive, but there is method to the madness. When you are organizing a living room, not everything needs to be hidden away when it comes to living room storage – in fact decorative solutions can make a huge difference to your look and feel. Plus, if it is in plain sight, you will be forced to keep it neat, tidy and organized. 

A cluster of simple floating shelves, or beautiful wall decor ideas, work particularly well in an open-plan living room, where there may be a fair amount of blank wall space. They add an element of interest that draws the eye, all while helping to keep side and coffee tables clear. It’s best to mount open shelving just above eye level and within easy reach if you intend for the shelves to hold day-to-day items. For a stylized look, stack collections of your favorite photography, books, and incorporate small pieces of art along a run of open shelving. Curating a pretty display will not only keep your living room looking tidy but will also help to make your living room beautiful.

‘It’s always useful to have some form of concealed storage to hide the non-everyday items that you might not want on show,’ notes Clarke. ‘We like to mix high level open shelving with concealed storage. Open shelving to display books, art, photos and concealed storage to hide things that don’t need to be on show. Try and create concealed storage for AV and electrical items below the TV instead of having these on show. We like to celebrate books with big pieces of open joinery. Books should always be visible to invite you in to read them.’

8. Use color to distract from necessary storage

(Image credit: Paul Raeside / Future)

When contemplating an organized living room scheme, function – such as storage – must be central to your design, but does not have to be visually dominant.  

While technology is undeniably an important factor in most living rooms, the trend is towards totally concealed solutions. In this well-designed scheme, the living room TV has been kept 'hidden' within a dedicated small living room storage space, along one side of the wall. Choosing a focus, such as a complementary living room color scheme, will distract from the room’s purpose and make it feel as considered as any other living area.

‘Your design approach to a living room is not unlike any other room in the house,’ says interior designer Athena Calderone, founder, EyeSwoon . Remember it is a delicate dance between aesthetics and utility, designed to motivate you each day but also be grounded in practicality. 

9. Invest in double duty furniture solutions

(Image credit: James Merrell / Future)

Built-in and freestanding storage benches have come a long way in recent years, with many designs today certainly not compromising good looks for the sake of extra stowaway spots. Organizing drawers in these units can be particularly useful for keeping soft furnishings such as throws and cushions close to hand, or a quick place to tidy toys away when not in use. 

If you’re not in the market for a new sofa or side table but your current model has legs, consider placing some low storage boxes underneath it in the same color or material, for a close-to-seamless way to organize a living room.

10. Organize living room clutter behind closed doors

(Image credit: Richard Powers/Future PLC)

If living room organization is the last thing on your mind, fret not. Not everyone has the time to devote to constant cleaning, especially in busy households. The ultimate fuss-free option, a wall of concealed small living room storage is the perfect solution for those who don’t like clutter. Make the most of the ceiling height by fitting extra-tall cupboards and storing rarely needed items at the top.

How can I organize my living room?

The most important thing to do when organizing your living room is to look at everything you own – art, books and objects – and work out what living room storage you need. Designer Nathalie de Leval says, ‘Thinking about how you store items – whether you prefer having items on show or hiding them in cupboards and drawers – helps define what you need.’

Interior designer Louise Bradley recommends assessing what you use most. ‘Which items do you reach for daily? Having them closer to hand will make living organization effortless and fuss-free.’

Deborah Bass, creative director of Base Interior , counsels against too much uniform storage. ‘Have freestanding items as well – an antique chest, for instance – to avoid that show-home look,’ she says.

We also recommend that you regularly tidy and throw away anything that you do not deem to be useful or sentimental. 'To throw away what you no longer need is neither wasteful nor shameful,' says organizing consultant Marie Kondo . 'Let them go, with gratitude. Not only you, but your things as well, will feel clear and refreshed when you are done tidying.'

Let's not forget about the versatility of a storage basket. They're made for sitting on your floor, beside your sofa, or there are smaller versions out there to sit atop a shelf to conceal your things. This makes an easy job of keeping organized in your living room, all whilst carrying your clutter and hiding it away from eyes.

Jennifer is the Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens. Having worked in the interiors industry for a number of years, spanning many publications, she now hones her digital prowess on the 'best interiors website' in the world. Multi-skilled, Jennifer has worked in PR and marketing, and the occasional dabble in the social media, commercial and e-commerce space. Over the years, she has written about every area of the home, from compiling design houses from some of the best interior designers in the world to sourcing celebrity homes, reviewing appliances and even the odd news story or two.

examples of design and decor, interior photos

Unfortunately, not everyone can boast of their own housing. And most of us have an idea of ​​what a dorm room is. How to make such a room creative and comfortable for living?

A dorm room is a budget housing option that requires you to avoid significant financial investments

Dorm room design

Contents

9000 In the opinion of professional designers, furnishing a dorm room is much easier than it seems at first glance. The main thing is to strictly adhere to the rule: not a single ownerless meter. At the same time, on modest meters you can recreate almost any style, and this is not an exaggeration. The only direction that is not friendly with modest square meters is the classics. But Provence, art deco, minimalism, loft, hi-tech and many other stylistic trends feel quite comfortable. nine0003

The specificity of dormitories is such that the most organic solution for decorating rooms is the industrial style

A minimalist room is only the most necessary for life

Female students often choose Provence for decorating a room

Guys are more suited to high-tech interior

Features of styles are played out in different ways, depending on the shape of the room, the number of residents and the necessary items. Particular attention is paid to the location of the beds. nine0003

Most often, two people live in a dorm room, but there are other options. For example:

Usually, decorating a dorm room includes several stages: choosing a style and color scheme, finishing and lighting, choosing furniture, zoning and decorating.

To finish the room, it is recommended to use materials that allow frequent wet cleaning.

If you are not a professional designer, it is better to stick to minimalism. Choosing a more complex stylistic solution, you run the risk of “breaking firewood”, and it is extremely difficult, and sometimes completely impossible, to eliminate the mistakes made later. And in minimalism there are specific rules, there are not many of them, and you are unlikely to spoil the interior. nine0003

Zoning

Thanks to zoning, the room becomes functional. After all, when it is not possible to purchase spacious housing, in which almost an entire room can be allocated for each “zone”, you have to embody original design ideas in a miniature space, or come up with your own options.

Competent zoning of the room allows rational use of literally every centimeter of free space

Usually two or three zones are combined in a small room. If only one person lives in a room, then the room consists of a bedroom, a living room and an office. If there are two or more tenants in the room, then personal space must also be provided. nine0003

Zoning can be conditional and actual:

So, in a square room, a screen or rack is installed either partially against one wall, or symmetrically against two opposite walls, so that a wide passage remains between the delimiters.

Inexpensive folding screen - a popular option for zoning a room in a hostel

But conditional zoning is carried out using different colors in the decoration, or installing a small podium. Even different textures in the finish will cope with the zoning function. nine0003

When designing a small multifunctional room, forget about large prints. If you do not like plain wallpaper, then use options with a small pattern.

Furniture for dorm rooms

When choosing interior details for a dorm room, forget about typical models that are offered in furniture stores in a huge assortment. It is better to refer to the catalogs, which contain collections of modular options.

Do not clutter up the room with a lot of furniture

The kitchen, completely hidden behind smooth facades, is the right furniture for a minimalist living

Set up the sleeping area first. If possible, two separate beds should be replaced with a bunk model, and the double bed should be abandoned in favor of a fold-out sofa.

For an elongated room, it is best to select the most narrow furniture and place it along long walls.

Models that combine different functions are very interesting. For example, the closet "with a slight movement of the hand" turns into a bed, and the dining area consists of a folding table and a pair of compact chairs. At the same time, in the folded version, such furniture looks no less aesthetically pleasing and functional. nine0003

Transforming room that changes its purpose with the help of a movable partition

When choosing a closet, pay special attention to the compartment models. Thus, you will get rid of the need to leave a "dead zone" for swing doors. Of course, the best of all possible options is the built-in design. It is thanks to her that you can maximally “fit” the furniture to the parameters of the room and your immediate needs (number of shelves, hangers, height and width of the structure). Corner cabinets also do an excellent job of keeping square meters. Properly arranging such a model and choosing a spectacular facade, you will bring stylish notes to the interior. nine0003

Built-in wardrobe with seating niche. Such furniture can be used both in the hallway and in the living area

A general rule that is relevant for any style: furniture should be simple in shape and with a smooth surface, and rounded shapes are desirable.

Lighting

For the design of a dorm room, multi-level lighting is considered the most suitable. Such projects literally fill the space with air, make it feel more spacious.

The illumination of a room is affected by the color palette of the interior, the size of the window and its design

To decorate a window, it is better to use light curtains that do not prevent the penetration of natural light into the room

If there is little natural light in the room, additional light sources must be installed

, scattered light from point light sources. Locations of spotlights: along the perimeter of the room, above the top panels of shelves and cabinets, along the edge of the “steps” of a multi-level ceiling. If the room has a podium, then spotlights should also cover it. nine0003

Particular attention should be paid to comfortable lighting of the workplace

If the room has a low ceiling, then it is better to abandon the central chandelier in favor of several small lamps on the ceiling located above different functional areas.

Color

Preferably light colors. This will make the room visually larger. If you like bright colors, then be extremely careful with them. As small accents, they will effectively “dilute” the interior, but if there are too many of them, the result will disappoint you. nine0003

A room for two students, decorated in a light color palette

A stylish room in a contrasting interior design

By the way, you can decorate a dorm room with decorative elements: vases, pillows, napkins, as well as flower pots and mirrors. The most suitable for accents are the following colors: black, lilac, fuchsia, red, green and sunny yellow.

Cozy interior with pleasant green accents

Even if you don't have your own home and you have to live in a hostel or in a communal apartment, don't despair. Modest square meters can be made functional and stylish. If you do not know how to do it yourself, please contact professional designers. nine0003

Video: Girls dorm room renovation

Photo: 50 dorm room ideas

Dorm room design: 75 furnishing ideas

The dorm room is a popular type of housing. It is chosen not only by students for the period of study, but by young families. Despite the small area, it is easy to equip such housing. The main thing is to make the most of every centimeter of the room. The result will be a beautiful and stylish dorm room design. nine0003

To make a beautiful and comfortable design, you need to make the most efficient use of square meters

This housing option is suitable for families and students

Dormitory room is a popular type of housing

Everyone dreams of a cozy and comfortable home. It doesn't matter what area it is. As a rule, a room in a hostel is characterized by meager square meters. It is not easy to equip them, but it is possible. The main thing is to use the free space correctly. nine0003

The problem of arranging such housing is that it should be multifunctional. This can be achieved through zoning. Areas dedicated to different purposes will be highlighted. Housing will be compact and comfortable.

Making your home compact and functional is easy

It is quite possible to equip such a room if you take the issue seriously

Contents

How to furnish the interior of a dorm room?

Many contemporary styles can be used in furnishing a dorm room. They will make your home as functional and beautiful as possible. The following destinations are especially popular:

Use of minimalism is appropriate. It involves the placement of only the most necessary items in the interior. As for the color scheme, it is worth choosing light cold shades. This range will visually increase the space. You can dilute the interior with bright colors, but do not abuse it. The design of the room should be restrained and calm. The pomposity is irrelevant. nine0003

Minimalism is very good for such housing

Different styles can be used to furnish a room

Use only essential furniture in the room

As far as furniture is concerned, it should be of a simple form and with a smooth surface. Glass and plastic products are used as decor. Mirrors visually expand the space. Therefore, they are recommended to be installed in small rooms.

Cozy accommodation will allow you to get a different direction of country music. It involves the installation of wooden furniture, light curtains on window openings, a lot of textiles in the interior. All this will fill the room with warmth and home comfort. Do not use a large number of decor items. They will lead to the fact that the interior will look pretentious. nine0003

Room dividers can be used

Interior furniture must be functional

See also "Marsala" color in the interior: tips, benefits, photos

Light plays an important role in interior design. Especially when it comes to a dorm room. A large amount of light will have a good effect on the general atmosphere. She will be pleasant and comfortable.

If the window openings are small and cannot provide enough natural light, then it is necessary to resort to other sources of it. As them, they use not only a chandelier, but also wall sconces, floor lamps. It is necessary to provide separate lighting for each zone by reference. nine0003

If there is little natural light in the room, you need to install additional sources

Good lighting will look great in the interior

Lighting plays an important role in the room

See alsoChocolate color in the interior: tips, photos

The design of a small dorm room has a number of features. If you take them into account, you can get comfortable and beautiful housing. First you need to properly think over the storage system. Every person has things and it is important to place them correctly so that they do not clutter up the space. At the same time, they were always at hand. nine0003

Storage system Hanging racks and shelves. They are quite roomy and occupy a minimum of space.
Kitchen area Separate with bar counter. She looks stylish and modern. At the same time, it will be a great place for lunch, both for one person and for the whole family.
Bed You can equip it in the form of a podium. It allows you to conveniently arrange bedding. The bed can be easily hidden thanks to a special mechanism. As a result, it turns into a closet or a niche, additional free square meters appear. nine0228

Bed can be separated by a partition

Shelves are very compact, they take up minimal space

By taking into account all the features of the room, you can create a comfortable home

See alsoAfrican style in the interior: features, photo

To make a dorm room stylish and comfortable, advice from experts will help. Well-known designers offer their own options for decorating a small room. If you use them, the process of arranging housing will be easy and simple. nine0003

Some designers have already figured out how to equip such living space

To make a room cozy, you can use the advice of professionals

See also Boho style in the interior: the main characteristics of

A great idea would be to use multifunctional furniture

Proper arrangement of furniture plays a major role in the arrangement

See also Beige color combinations: use in interior design and clothing

Color design

The color palette is able to visually enlarge the room. In this case, it is important to take this into account when arranging and it is necessary to abandon dark materials when finishing. This will allow you to get a beautiful, stylish and functional home. nine0003

It is necessary to use white color in an interior carefully. He is able to turn housing into a hospital ward. The white shade is completely impractical, it is difficult to keep it clean. The best solution to the problem is the use of pastel colors.

To make the room seem more spacious, do not make the color of the floor contrast with the shade of the walls. They must be in harmony. It is better to make the ceiling as light as possible. Small drawings look good on the walls, large ones attract a lot of attention and clog the interior. nine0003

All colors must match

Care must be taken to use white in the interior

The use of light colors can visually expand the room

See alsoDesign studio 26 square meters - how to combine everything?

Family nest

Equipping a room in a hostel, it is necessary to be guided not only by the features of the room, but also by the preferences of the owners.

Learn more