The L-shaped layout of most homes can be a deal breaker. But worry not, because, with the right design, that ugly and restrictive corner can become your new best friend. Large rooms like your home’s great room or family room can feel so much more alive when they have lots of interesting features and are used often.
Strategically Place Massive Mirrors
A massive mirror can add a new dimension to your room, turning it into a new space. Mount it above a roaring fireplace or on the wall opposite a window. You can also use mirrors to create a floating effect or hang one above a seating area to bounce light around the space.
When choosing a mirror, you want one that is large but doesn’t take over your entire space. A good rule of thumb is to choose a mirror that’s at least one wall’s height. This will let you add other decor elements above or below it.
Add Trellises For Shady Escape Options
If you have a large room, you can use trellises to create secret outdoor escapes. Mount several trellises across your room, with ropes and hooks for climbing. This will add a shaded, outdoor vibe to any space. It’ll also let you create lots of different outdoor escape options.
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You can mount a large swing on one or hang a hammock from the ropes. You can also attach a climbing wall or create a large climbing dome. You can even attach a zip line so you can slide across the room like Spider-Man!
Let The Kids Havoc With An Over-the-top Fort
Kids can be so creative! Find a large room in your home that’s well-bounded by walls and make it the site of your over-the-top fort. It doesn’t have to be a big room, either. You can create a defense in a child’s bedroom or an upstairs closet. Just ensure it’s well-secluded so it doesn’t get out of hand. Put together all your kid’s favorite toys and materials like blankets, pillows, and stuffed animals.
There are lots of great online tutorials for creating forts so you can find something that suits your style and helps your kids have fun. You can also create DIY forts with large spaces. For example, you can use blankets and pillows to create a makeshift tent on a dining room table.
Add A Swinging Screen To Bring The Outside In
Outdoorsy decorating can be a real challenge in the winter. The worst thing you can do is bring the outdoors inside. Screen doors and large windows are a great way to bring in the outdoors, especially in the winter when the sun is down for the majority of the day. You can also try bringing in the outdoors with a swinging screen.
This can be a large single or double-hung door that you slide against a wall and then latch. You can then attach a rope to let it swing in the breeze. This will let you bring in lots of nature while keeping your rooms cozy and warm. If you have a really large room, you can even attach the door to a ceiling track so you have a free-moving screen.
Don’t Forget About Smaller Spaces – Use Them Wisely Too!
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Your large room isn’t the only space in the home that can benefit from a makeover. Make sure to knock down any walls that separate smaller rooms, like your dining room or den. This will let you create a great flow from room to room, which can help to break up your space and make your home feel more open.
Find ways to use smaller spaces that don’t involve cramming them with lots of furniture. A small office or study can benefit from being used as a media room or study. Let the space feel more like an actual room with a big-screen TV and other fun features. A smaller kitchen can be turned into a fun breakfast or media area.
Get Comfortable: Make Sure Your Room Is Well-Equipped
If your large room is used for entertaining, it can feel very empty when the company leaves. Make sure it’s equipped with all the essentials. The room should have a comfortable seating arrangement for at least four people and enough table space for everyone’s food and drinks. The room should also have a good-quality sound system that can fill the space with loud sound while still allowing you to hear each other. This will help you feel more comfortable when entertaining guests in your large room.
Conclusion
Whether you have a large home or a small one, a room like your home’s great room or family room can feel so much more alive when they have lots of interesting features and are used often. You’ll have more room to enjoy all this goodness, too! These interior design ideas can help you open up your large room and make it feel more like an apartment than a house.