In many homes, the family room is the primary gathering place. It’s important to make the best use of the space.

The room should be cozy, comfortable and accessible. Think about who will be using the room. Will it be family with kids and pets? Will they be lounging, watching movies, or will the kids be playing there?

Make the room stand out. One way is to define the ceiling: “Wood beams add warmth and texture and give a layering effect to the room,” said interior designer Eloise Kubli, owner of Collective Construction and Design in Plantation. “Faux is okay,” she added.

Family rooms are often adjacent to kitchens. “A bar or island with pendant lights above can help define the space,” Kubli said.

ON THE WALLS

What wall colors will be pleasing? “Wallpaper is back in a big way,” Kubli said.” It’s durable and can add texture.”

THE TV

In many homes, the television is an important feature in the family room. “Everybody wants a large-screen TV now, so you need a big wall for it,” Kubli said.” Will you put it into a built-in unit? Will it be an architectural focal point? We’re doing a lot of gas or electric ribbon fireplaces under TVs.”

KIDS AND PETS

Are there small children and pets in the family? “Crypton^® fabrics are pet friendly,” Kubli said. “Pet accidents won’t penetrate them, and they’re odor resistant. We’re also using Sunbrella^® fabrics—they’re gorgeous and very durable.”

GETTING COZY

Kubli chooses window treatments according to the size of the windows and the view. “If you don’t have a good view, you may want shutters,” she said. “If the view is good, you might go for a sunshade that disappears when you don’t need it.”

MAKE IT FUNCTIONAL

“Will you want a work station?” Kubli said. “You’ll need to think about electrical outlets and data ports for your computer and cell phone. You may want a pull-top table for your computer.”

MAKE IT MOBILE

Kubli prefers a cocktail table. “A large, gorgeous cocktail table is always a focal point of the room,” she said.