The holidays are coming and with that will begin more time spent with the family, be that immediate or extended. To make your home more family friendly and cozy for all, here are some ideas:

Heart of the Home - The Kitchen

You’ll increasingly find that during family gatherings most everybody tends to hand around the kitchen. It may be your warm personality, the aroma of food, or just ever hungry people. To make the kicthen more family friendly and kid friendly try the following:

- Make sure the colors, be that on the walls or in your accent pieces, are warm and inviting
- Keep all unwanted items out of the way so that traffic flow is unhindered
- It should be a functional space where people have enough seating at the breakfast bar or breakfast table so that they can nibble on tidbits and keep the conversation going
- An upholstered banquette is a great seating option
- Keep some handy snacks ready and serve them in colorful and stylish bowls or plates

Cozy yet Elegant Look for the Family Room

The family room becomes the ultimate gathering place for the family after a delicious and sumptuous meal or a hectic day of skiing. This room needs to exude warmth and comfort without looking shabby, worn or frumpy.

- Invest in good quality sofas, loveseats, recliners, or chaise
- Soft, down-filled, colorful accent pillows will not only add style and color to the room, they will make the room feel more comfortable
- A soft rug that you can sink your feet into will give a feel of luxury
- Coffee table that you can put your feet up on and have ample storage in is ideal
- Black and white family photos around you will give the room a stylishly homely look