A Great room is a hot new trend in combining multiple functions of other more traditional rooms, such as the family room, the living room, and even the kitchen to one big room. The advantage is openness and flexibility for entertaining and daily family life, but they can be a challenge to furnish. Here are some key principles to keep in mind:
Furniture defines the functionality of a space
Furniture frames out the activity in that area. For example, for a Great room with a TV in it, decide where you want your TV to be, and then frame it out by placing the side of the sectional facing the TV to define the space. Add a rug underneath to box-in all sides and complete the look.
Reinforce with light fixture
Place a pendant light to define where the dining area is going to be; add floor lamps to host an area that requires more light, like family seating areas or reading nooks.
Virtual Flow
After you decide where all the pieces are going to be, make sure you do a virtual flow run. Tape out the area and/ or put cardboard boxes to simulate furniture and do a test run to see if your daily activities flow the way you want.
Be creative and follow your instincts and most of all, enjoy it!