Larger families have more: more stuff, people and needs. Therefore, they require more storage capacity and seating. We have compiled a list of furniture pieces that are essential for larger families or those who host frequent guests. Furniture that provides additional space and/or has dual purposes is ideal. Every piece should be functional, not just aesthetic. These furniture pieces will make your life so much easier:

1. L shaped sofa for additional seating

2. Ottoman for comfort and storage

3. Entertainment center with drawers

4. Farmhouse table with bench for more seating

Are you searching for a new bed? There are many different styles, materials and colors to consider, but this month, we are discussing the different styles of beds. 

1. Iron/metal beds: These are normally black, silver, or can be painted. They also have different designs with curls, straight lines, or more intricate details. This is a nice option for a variety of style rooms as the design changes the style. It can be industrial, feminine or farmhouse.

2. Fabric: Fabric headboards are almost like padded boards with a slipcover. They come in a wide variety of colors and can also have different shapes, though not as intricate as the iron/metal beds. This option is not as durable as the fabric is subject to normal wear and tare, but it can be quite beautiful and inviting.

3. Sleigh beds: These beds look just like their name: a sleigh. There is a curvature to the back, which makes them appear larger and more grand. Because of this curvature though, it is not the best option for smaller spaces as the back of the bed will take up more room.

4. Canopy: These beds can be very romantic and also come in a variety of styles and wood or metal finishes. It is a great statement place, but can highlight low ceilings making the space feel more tight.

Furniture is made out of different woods with unique characters, coloration and durability. Here is a list and description of the most common types of wood used for furniture:

1. Cedar is a soft wood normally used for closets and chests as its scent repels insects. There is a soft red coloration with knots and streaks.
2. Cherry is one of the most expensive hardwoods, which is why it is commonly used for cabinets and fine accent tables. The grain and coloration is very distinct for its red hue.
3. Hickory: This is a furniture stable, known for its strength. It is commonly used for rockers and chairs.
4. Mahogany is one of the most expensive woods due to its rich coloration and distinct grain. It is one of the furniture favorites.
5. Oak has prominent streaks and comes in red and white varieties. It is valued for its strength, which is why it is common in furniture and has a moderate price

Are you looking to purchase your first home this New Year? Here is a list of furniture essentials to build your home:

1. Start off with purchasing a nice bed or complete bedroom suite if you’re looking to splurge. Your bedroom is a place of relaxation, so it should be the first room you tackle to make your home feel complete.
2. You don’t need to start off buying a huge dining room set, but a place to eat, such as a breakfast table, is necessary, especially if you plan on having guests. Eating picnic style on your floor will get old.
3. A couch/ living room seating is also another necessity. The side tables, coffee tables and entertainment center add comfort, but a couch or ample seating is nice to sit, watch TV or merely enjoy the company of family and friends.
4. If you work from home, a desk may be a necessity to have a proper workstation. For those who do not work from home, this can wait.

Do you enjoy the ambiance of a fireplace but don’t want the expense and inconvenience of a home renovation? A console, electric fireplace is a great option as they come in a variety of styles and have greater moveability. In Texas, fireplaces are not necessary most of the year, so a fireplace could occupy wasted space. With a console fireplace, they can be moved to a garage or attic when they are not needed, or remain all year round for aesthetics and a homeier feel.

Fireplace consoles can also provide storage and some are media centers. They have molding, mantles, shelves and an area for a television. This makes for a functional space. Make your home warm and inviting this holiday season by purchasing your fireplace.

The holiday season could be renamed “comfy couch season” as there are countless opportunities to gather with friends and family that require comfortable and excess seating. Between college football bowl games, the post-Thanksgiving dinner slump and watching family members open presents Christmas day, a comfy couch will be necessary to make sure your family and friends feel at home. Here are some considerations and mistakes to avoid to guarantee you make the right decision:

1. Material: The dog will shed. Drinks will be spilled. Children will eat buttery popcorn and greasy pizza. Therefore, do not select a material that cannot withstand the daily habits of your family. Select a durable material like leather, outdoor fabric or become best friends with a Clorox pen. Football is synonymous with eating and drinking while gathered around the TV, make sure your couch can support it.
2. Comfort: What is the point in purchasing a couch that is not comfortable? No matter the occasion, Super Bowl party or family movie night, you will want to have a nice place to relax. Invest in a sofa that is comfortable enough to sleep on. You never know who may end up having to sleep there.
3. Color: Though this sort of goes with the material warning, color deserves its own category, especially when selecting an upholstered couch. Trendy, bold colors may look great, but make sure you will not get sick of them. A good couch can last many years, but you may not want it to if the orange becomes too bright and hard to manipulate with the season or latest trends.
4. Size: Unless your living room is small, do not solely purchase a loveseat. This two-seater does not provide much room for additional people to squeeze in, thus limiting your hosting potential. Large, 3 seater couches and even larger sectionals have ample space for family and friends. Consider the number of individuals most likely to frequent your house. If you have a family of 5, make sure there is at least enough seating for 5, though it is better to plan for 7-9 so there is room for guests. Consider what works best for your situation and go from there.

Changing the furniture for the season is tempting, but buying classic, neutral colors affords the flexibility of decorating for the season. Seasonal décor can make your home feel more inviting to guests and match the ambiance of the outdoors. These furniture tips can take your home from season to season with ease:

1. Living room: By selecting furniture in natural, earth tones, pillows and throws can be changed with the season. Brown, ivory, yellow, and red can be easily transformed with the season.
2. Dining room: Luckily, all dining rooms need to fit the season is a new centerpiece. Utilize seasonal foliage or flowers to instantly transform the look of the room. Gourds, pumpkins and leaves are perfect for fall. Find a classic table set you love and dash some seasonal décor on top.
3. Kitchen: Similar to the dining room, simple seasonal flowers or produce can instantly change the feel of the room. Put out a fruit/vegetable basket for a practical and seasonal look.
4. Bedroom: If you want to change the look of your bedroom, swap out your family photos to match the season. This room should make you feel relaxed, so select a bedroom suite that makes you happy.
   

Dining room furniture is often minimal or neglected in informal households. However, when utilized, this is a place of gathering and should be a proud point of your interior design. Here is the breakdown for your dining room essentials:

1. Table and chairs: This may seem obvious, but there are certain considerations to be made when selecting the table. If the space is small, round tables with armless chairs gives the illusion of a larger room. Grand spaces can have oblong or rectangular tables with armed seating on the ends or, if given ample space, also fully around the table. Space allowing, think of the maximum number of guests you wish to host and plan accordingly.
2. Rug and curtains: A nice aerial rug and curtains can really bring some character into the space. Besides the art work, the rug and curtains are the main items to bring your color and style.
3. China cabinet: Display your beautiful china or family heirloom pieces in a china cabinet. There are corner options or standard to accommodate any space. This also keeps the room centered on the dining experience.
4. Centerpiece or artwork: Display a beautiful piece of art, but make sure it is aesthetically pleasing for eating. This is probably not the place for a hunting scene. Centerpieces of flowers, bowls, candles or seasonal selections can also decorate this space.
5. Serving table: A serving table is not only beautiful, but also extremely useful for those larger gatherings. When not in use, displaying a beautiful platter can provide the room with décor, but for occasions, is a practical place for your guests to retrieve their food or as a station to keep additional food.

Are you building the living room of your dreams? Sometimes all the aspects of creating a space can be stressful, so we listed the basics. Here are all the living room essentials to create an inviting space to gather:

1. Sofa: A sofa is a great place to start as it can seat many people in a comfortable, an intimate arrangement. There are also many different styles sure to fit into every household.

2. Accent chair: It’s an easy way to add a pop of color or style to the room. In addition, this adds additional seating. Since living rooms tend to be a gathering space, the more seating, the better.

3. Pillows and a throw: These, like the accent chair, display your personal style and can add color. Furthermore, they are useable and make the spacious more comfortable.

4. Coffee table or side tables: While watching TV or merely enjoying one another’s company, these surfaces provide a place to set a drink, food etc. Don’t forget the coasters, though!

5. Conversation piece: Show your household’s personality. These items vary, and include everything from an autographed baseball to a family photo on vacation. Find something that speaks to you!