Creating functional family-friendly spaces: Tips for a home that works hard for you
Designing a home that looks beautiful while standing up to the daily demands of family life can feel like a balancing act. As a mom, designer, and someone who specializes in creating family-centered second homes, I’m here to tell you - it’s totally possible to have both style and functionality!
Whether you’re furnishing a second home along the Jersey Shore or designing your primary residence, these tips will help you create spaces that prioritize your family’s needs while maintaining a timeless, relaxed aesthetic.
In today’s Design Class with Cass, I shared three key tips to help you design functional family-friendly spaces that work for your lifestyle and even increase your home’s value. Let’s dive in!
1. Choose durable fabrics
Life happens - spills, stains, and all! But that doesn’t mean your furniture has to suffer. For families, performance fabrics are a must-have. These stain-resistant, easy-to-clean materials are ideal for sofas, chairs, and other upholstered pieces, especially in high-traffic areas like living rooms or sunrooms.
Not only do performance fabrics stand up to daily wear and tear, but they also come in a variety of colors and textures that suit the clean, casual look of a coastal-inspired home.
Pro tip:
When furnishing your New Jersey vacation home, think about the beach lifestyle - sand, wet swimsuits, and sunscreen are all factors to consider when selecting fabrics for your furniture.
2. Incorporate seamless storage
A clutter-free space is key to achieving that calm, coastal aesthetic so many families love. Built-in shelving, storage ottomans, and baskets offer practical yet stylish ways to keep toys, games, and everyday clutter tucked away but within easy reach.
Smart storage is particularly valuable for second homes, where visitors and family members tend to bring extra belongings. Think about adding a mudroom with cubbies for flip-flops and beach gear or a walk-in pantry to keep snacks organized after long beach days.
Pro tip:
Custom built-ins can enhance both the functionality and resale value of your home, whether it’s a primary residence or a second home on Long Beach Island.
3. Create layouts that encourage connection
A family-friendly space isn’t just about how it looks - it’s about how it feels. Furniture arrangements should promote connection and conversation. In living rooms, group sofas and chairs around a central coffee table or ottoman to create a cozy gathering spot.
For dining areas, consider round or oval tables to make family meals feel more inclusive and inviting. These small changes can transform a space into the heart of your home, where family and friends naturally come together.
Pro tip:
When designing your layout, prioritize flexibility. Modular furniture or multipurpose pieces can adapt as your family grows or your needs change, making your home as functional as it is beautiful.
Bringing it all together
Family-friendly design is all about striking the right balance between functionality and beauty. By choosing durable materials, incorporating seamless storage, and designing layouts that bring people together, you’ll create a home that works for your family now and grows with you over time.
Whether you’re designing a second home along the Jersey Shore or your primary residence, these tips can help you achieve a space that feels as practical as it does inviting.
Want more tips like these?
Sign up for my monthly Design Diaries newsletter to get exclusive design inspiration, behind-the-scenes stories, and insider tips delivered straight to your inbox.