Great Room Ideas

Great rooms are open-concept spaces that include a living and dining room combination, often with the addition of a kitchen as well. They’re ideal for fostering a casual, social environment in the home, but all that undefined space can pose a bit of a challenge when it comes to arranging furniture and decor. So if you’re on the lookout for great room ideas, consider the following design tips and inspiration below.

1. Mix Up the Flooring

It’s nice to create sections within a great room, so that the space doesn’t feel overwhelming or drafty. One of the easiest ways to do this is to use different types of flooring throughout the room, with hardwood or tile in a kitchen and carpet or area rugs underneath a sitting area.

2. Statement Lighting

Your decor should help highlight and define different zones, so try hanging a bold chandelier above a dining table or sofa.

3. Highlight the Fireplace

If you’re lucky enough to have a fireplace, design the room around it. You can install stonework or wood paneling above the fireplace to span the height of your wall, or arrange sofas and chairs around it for a cozy gathering spot.

4. Add an Island

Great rooms with kitchens are ideal for socializing or spending time with the family, but it’s also nice to cordon off your prep space. Strike a balance by installing a kitchen island or wrap-around countertop, and leave the mess inside.

5. Lay Down a Warming Rug

Adding a rug is another easy way to define different zones and keep your home feeling warm and cozy. Put it under a dining table or in the center of a living room area.

6. Opt For a Sectional Sofa

If you’re picking out new furniture, think about what sorts of interior layouts will work with the flow of the space. Sectional sofas are great for creating a defined family room and will add to the casual, welcoming mood.

7. Paint the Walls

Great room design is all about balancing the grand scale with casual comfort, and sometimes going all white can leave the space feeling too cold. In that case, try painting the walls beige or blue to bring some color to the room.

8. Install Built-In Shelves

Consider integrating a library within your great room with built-in shelves or a large bookcase. Whether you keep novels or cookbooks on the walls, a built-in unit is ideal for unifying the space.

9. Go Grand with a Lodge Style

Great rooms with tall, vaulted ceilings deserve an interior style that’s equally impressive. Opt for a stately ski lodge look with a ribbon fireplace and plenty of warm woods.

10. Keep It Cozy

Even if you don’t have high ceilings, going with a cozy look is key in such a big space. Create a warm and rustic space with a white wooden beam ceiling, chunky throw blankets and a cream colored couch.