In the land before time, or long, long ago, formal sitting rooms were for important visitors. You were brought to your host’s driveway in a horse-drawn carriage, a footman opened the carriage door and threw you to the ground. At the front door, your coat or cloak was taken from you; you left your business card on the hall table and were ushered into the front room. Wake up! We mortal mothers no longer live like this.
The family room was invented for the double-salaried household with children so that, in the event that they had unannounced visitors, they would not have to run around like a decapitated chicken putting away their toys and clothes. They could retreat to the formal living room. But with the invention of the telephone, maybe not that long ago, people call and make appointments, instead of just showing up. I know, there are a few who cling to the “I was in the neighborhood” ploy, but they get what they deserve.
So why do developers continue to provide us with formal living rooms? Someone’s asleep at the switch. Someone should tell them that men no longer retire to the study for brandy and a cigar; and women have long ceased to drink tea in the drawing room away from the men.
If you have one of those useless, cramped living rooms that you barely even notice, repurpose it. One feature that would work extremely well in a space that is clearly too small for formal gatherings beyond immediate family is a stylish home office. Even if you run a business from this space, it can be outfitted so things like built-in storage, books, maps, globes, etc., are front and center. Technology can be housed in cabinets to disguise its actual use as a home-based business or a place to handle family affairs. Today’s great storage keeps important and confidential paperwork out of sight under lock and key. With comfortable seating, this repurposed room can double as a great gathering spot for a small group.
What about a library that is a special dining room when a formal dining room is missing? A game room where cards and board games are played would be perfect. A music room or reading room are more useful ideas for the ignored room. When it comes down to it, just because an architect has labeled a space “living room” doesn’t mean you should limit yourself to what’s on a blueprint. It’s your house. Make it useful!
