Do you know the difference between a living room and a family room? Pulte provides custom home designs to fit every lifestyle and can help you make each of these rooms stylishly distinct and inviting.  

Family Room vs. Living Room Guide

In different parts of the country, a living room might be known as a sitting room or parlor. A family room might be called the den or even a rumpus room. Whatever words you decide to use for them, it's essential to understand the difference between the two rooms so your family can get the most satisfaction, fun, and joy from them. 

Living Room Basics

The living room is typically where you entertain guests, catch up with loved ones, or socialize. It may be the more formal of the two spaces.  Consider not having a television in this room to honor the formality of the space and create an atmosphere of elegance. However, if you do want a television there, you could always hide it behind some beautiful cabinetry. 

Create a living room design that reflects your style and is fit for entertaining. Think about using more luxurious decor and furnishings, like unique art pieces, and your space will become an upscale sanctuary. High-end rugs and decorative accessories are excellent complements to this room reserved for special occasions, so focus on making it as timelessly sophisticated or modernly chic as you'd like. 

Family Room Basics

The family room offers a cozy space and atmosphere, perfect for unwinding with a movie night or having fun watching the big game. A big-screen TV makes all the difference here, along with any video game systems or surround sound you'd like to use during your viewing party. Comfort meets convenience in this versatile retreat.

To turn your family room into a warm and inviting space where special memories are made with loved ones, artwork and decor should reflect happy times spent together, with items like souvenirs and family photos. Storage solutions help keep the area neat by providing homes for toys, games, electronics, and all those comfy blankets designed for a snuggle.

Floor Plan Design

If you’re designing the floor plan for a living room, make it comfortable and conducive to conversation with two-facing sofas or a sofa plus side chairs. For extra seating, have some accent chairs tucked away discreetly in corners, accompanied by strategically placed ottomans for an inviting atmosphere. To maximize the space further, consider creating a reading nook or desk area where you can curl up with your favorite book; just be sure the area is well-lit. 

Your family room floor plan should include furniture centered around the TV or video game setup, plus a spacious table ideal for game nights with friends, puzzles, and casual dining. And if the room has access to an outdoor area, don't forget to include a handy drop zone for stashing jackets and muddy sneakers. 

Home Design Trends

When designing your living room, or any space in the house, maintain a minimalist mindset. Let open spaces and a modern design reign supreme; you don't have to sacrifice style just because you’re keeping it simple. If done right, you can achieve an elegant atmosphere no matter what aesthetic flavor you prefer.

There are endless possibilities for creating a stylish and people-friendly environment in the family room. Balance coziness and practicality with beautiful storage options, like shelves or built-ins, to keep clutter at bay. A warm, soft-toned color palette also makes any family room feel more inviting. And make sure to bring texture into play for added comfort, such as including plush fabrics or interesting wood elements throughout your design scheme.

When constructing your dream home, Pulte strives to ensure your every need is met. With their design expertise and a wealth of resources available, you can create a space with personality where function meets style for an unforgettable living experience.

Discover stunning floor plans and check out Pulte's new home communities today!

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