Since we have had children, I have often found myself seeking out practical family living spaces.  Life can undoubtedly be hard work with kids and you don’t want your furnishings and arrangement to be making things harder.  I’m talking muddy shoes, crumbs everywhere and impromptu baby erruptions.

The Right Flooring
We’ve lived in 3 different properties now, our first house had carpet throughout, the second had some original, varnished floorboards and ceramic tiles and our current house with oak style laminate and tiles throughout the downstairs of the house.

I have to say the most practical of these has been the hard floors, carpets just don’t seem to stand up to the needs of our family.  Any spillages can be wiped away swiftly, so no matter what is thrown (sometimes literally) at it, it can bounce back quickly. Floorsave have a great range that would all work well in a family living space.

Storage is the Future
I bang on about this all the time but honestly, good storage is priceless.  I’m a bit obsessed with the mid century look at the moment so I adore the string storage units at Haus. Even on a budget, remember stroage doesnt have to be hideous either, try and think out of the box.  Could you use a traditional wood dresser from with some storage baskets to keep clutter at bay?  Try your local auction for inspiration, solid wood and affordable price tags.

Easy Clean
From the sofa to the windowsills, try your best to make things easy to clean.  Our Ikea sofa has removable covers, but leather can be equally good as it is wipe clean!  And by clearing clutter off ledges and shelves there’s less things to be broken or just catch dust.

Keep it cosy
I love the layered look and have pillows and blankets strewn around our living room.  I tend to get mine from Homesense as there is a wide nd ecclectic range to choose from.  Acessories are especially good for family rooms as they have the added benefit of being perfect for den building or you could even create your own tent!  Try not to be too precious with the things you have and jump into the fun.

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Disclosure: Post in collaboration with Floorsave, all thoughts words and opinions my own.