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The Den Makes a Comeback
Cozy up in a small room with wood paneling, fireplace and furniture meant for reading and conversation
Over the past few years, I've noticed that many of my clients are less interested in great rooms and huge family rooms, and they're embracing the idea of the den again. Granted, I do a lot of remodeling of older homes with smaller rooms, so that may account for what I'm seeing.
The den is pretty much like a family room, except it's smaller and compartmentalized — not open to a kitchen or other space. I grew up in an era 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 a television. Here are some examples that fit into my nostalgic walk down memory lane and illustrate the den's classic elements.
More: 7 Stately Study Essentials
The den is pretty much like a family room, except it's smaller and compartmentalized — not open to a kitchen or other space. I grew up in an era 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 a television. Here are some examples that fit into my nostalgic walk down memory lane and illustrate the den's classic elements.
More: 7 Stately Study Essentials
Wood paneling: Warm wood walls are iconic. It doesn't matter whether they're original Old-World panels or '70s remakes — I think they're fabulous either way. This dark moody room feels like a library but might double as the TV room.
Stuffed and cozy: In lieu of leather, a den might have casual slipcovered furniture. It can be smaller than family rooms, and the furniture can be larger and feel almost over-stuffed. That creates a wonderful sense of coziness and intimacy.
Sofa and chairs: Opt for a sofa and chairs in lieu of a sectional. A sectional is designed for television viewing, whereas a separate sofa and chairs can be easily arranged for conversation rather than TV. Mixing up the types and styles of chairs is a good way to achieve the look.
Or go for chairs and ottomans only for a den that's all about reading and reflecting.
A fireplace. A den with a fireplace makes a cozy room even cozier. There's something about having a fireplace in the room, even in summer when you're not using it.
Small rooms: Many older homes have awkward small rooms — maybe it's a small dining room or unoccupied first-floor bedroom. Transform it into a grown-up den.
Bookshelves: If you have a larger space, break up the room into two spaces: one area for bookshelves, a game table and a reading nook, and the other for the den.
Office den: Turn your home office into something more by creating a den-like feel with dark walls, layered rugs, and a cozy spot to curl up with a book.
Next: More ideas for dens
Next: More ideas for dens