Today, architecture has become – or is in the process of becoming – more flexible and individualistic to accommodate people’s diverse lifestyles and spatial needs. With this adaptation, the residential typology has changed and living rooms have become endangered. Many insist on the need of having a space dedicated for relaxation and leisure, while others claim it is simply a waste of space and money. This debate raised an important question: do we still need living/sitting rooms? In this interior focus, we will look at how living rooms evolved through the years, and how architects readapted and integrated the concept of “gathering space” in contemporary residential architecture.
Although they share the same purpose – a place to gather – many countries differentiate between living rooms and family rooms. Living rooms are considered more formal and elevated, whereas family rooms are a more casual place to hang out and spend time with family members. Oftentimes, living rooms are placed at the entrance, or near the entrance, whereas family rooms are closer to the bedrooms and other private spaces. In terms of interior design and décor, living rooms are where house owners show off their artwork and unique furniture pieces, unlike the family room, which is more casual and comfortable. In this article, both living and family rooms will be explored as one gathering space.
The king, who was known for his interest in furniture and décor, transformed a couple of rooms in the chateau into private living rooms, inaugurating the concept of combining formal and informal living. Fast forward a couple of decades later, the world of architecture and interior design across the world began creating signature furniture pieces dedicated to these private spaces, and shortly after the industrial revolution, comfort stood at the forefront. Right after the Second World War, Americans were heavily invested in family rooms, embodying the image of casual suburban family life with a television, sofas, and entertainment. It became evident that the living room has become the heart of a modern home. Today, however, the heart of a modern home has shape-shifted into a big open space that combines both the kitchen and sitting room, or disappeared entirely.