The family room serves a similar function in the home to a living room: it's a gathering place for everyone to convene and relax together at the end of the day. That said, there are some differences. Family rooms are more relaxed spaces, and tend to be more kid-friendly. It's also a newer concept that dates to the mid-century. Historically, the family room is the place to let your hair down and get comfortable. This is the room where you let guests rest their feet on the ottoman and cozy up with a blanket on the couch.