Within the past few decades, I’ve noticed that many of my clients are somewhat less interested in excellent rooms and huge family rooms, plus they are embracing the idea of the den . Granted, I do a lot of remodeling of older homes with smaller chambers, so that might account for what I’m seeing.
The room is pretty much like a family room, but it is smaller and compartmentalized — not receptive to a kitchen or alternative room. I was raised in an age of dens, and somewhere along the line the den turned into the family room or media room and got a lot bigger. I am thrilled to see their return, with or without. Here are some examples which fit in to my nostalgic walk down memory lane and exemplify the den’s classic elements.
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Leather: When the couch isn’t leather, using one leather seat can create the room feel, and if it is studded or tufted much better.
Stonewood, LLC
Wood paneling: Warm wood walls are all iconic. It isn’t important whether they are original Old-World panels ’70s remakes — I believe they’re fantastic either way. This dark moody room feels like a library but may double as the TV room.
Bosworth Hoedemaker
Stuffed and comfy: instead of leather, a den may have casual slipcovered furniture. It could be smaller compared to household rooms, along with the furniture could be bigger and feel nearly over-stuffed. This produces a great sense of coziness and intimacy.
Young House Love
Sofa and seats: Opt for a couch and chairs Instead of a sectional. A sectional is designed for tv viewing, whereas a distinct couch and chairs can be easily arranged for dialogue rather than TV. Mixing up the types and styles of seats is a good means to reach the appearance.
ROMABIO / Interior & Exterior Mineral Based Paints
Or go for seats and ottomans just to get a den that is about reading and reflecting.
Bosworth Hoedemaker
A fireplace. A den with a fireplace creates a cozy room even cozier. There’s something about using a fireplace in the room, even in summertime when you are not using it.
Small rooms: Many older homes have awkward small rooms — perhaps it is a small dining room or unoccupied first-floor bedroom. Transform it into a grown-up den.
Bosworth Hoedemaker
Bookshelves: when you’ve got a bigger space, divide the space into two spaces: a single place for bookshelves, a game table and a reading corner, along with another for the den.
Lisa Borgnes Giramonti
Office Theater: Turn your house office into something more by developing a den-like feel with dark walls, layered rugs, and a comfy spot to curl up with a book.
Next: More ideas for dens