Regardless of your household structure, there's a good chance some quality time is bound to happen. Perhaps you fancy a few board games, potluck dinners or simply relaxing on the couch, but what if you could get a little more productive with your household's quality time?
Here are a few popular projects for any household:
The breakfast nook
Popular open floor plans have led many homeowners to focus on center islands and use tall stools to create a coffee or breakfast bar. Few would argue this kitchen-centric design fails to attract impromptu gatherings. But by the nature of this design, interactions and gatherings may not be as relaxed and cozy as some households prefer. Breakfast nooks, however, handle an impromptu gathering a little differently.
For a typical breakfast nook, you'll need a rectangular tabletop with cushioned bench seating on either side. Designs often mirror the space-efficient booths used in breakfast restaurants. A simple breakfast nook design can be constructed by handy DIY homeowners or by a construction professional.
Indoor-outdoor space
Indoor-outdoor spaces are excellent ways to stay away from the screens of everyday life and engage in comfortable conversations with house members. A great way to incorporate an indoor-outdoor space is by adding a veranda.
Working with a contractor to build an overhanging roof opens the door to a wide range of enhancements. Heating systems, full kitchens, refrigeration and comfortable indoor furniture are now on the table. The cost of a roof extension invites the amenities your household members gravitate toward.
Transform a room into a home theater
Home theaters were once considered high-end improvements. Homeowners no longer need to invest in massive surround-sound systems, projectors or movie screens. The relatively inexpensive large flat-screen televisions can more than suffice.
One way to distinguish a home theater from an everyday TV room is to remodel the walls, ceiling and integrate specialized seating. In other words, emulate the inside of a movie theater and install plush, somewhat oversized recliners in one or more rows. Now you and yours can joke, talk and enjoy a snack while watching a new release or a time-honored favorite without worrying about disturbing other patrons.
About the Author
Diana Hellman
Diana Hellman's passion for Larchmont inspires her more than 20 year real estate practice. As a certified buyer's representative, "The development of a solid and trusting relationship with my buyers and sellers is what I strive for." This success, primarily built on client referrals and repeat business, comes from her knowledge of what makes Larchmont unique: it's school system, recreational facilities, services and the special qualities that pervade this village's atmosphere. A former educator with a background in psychology, Diana knows that people don't want a sales pitch, but rather reliable, timely information. She and her husband have been residents of Larchmont for over 40 years. Her 3 children have attended the Mamaroneck Public Schools. She can give you expert advice with the sale or purchase of your home. Awards/Distinctions Multi-million dollar club- Westchester Board of Realtors International Diamond Society (8 million plus in sales), 5-Star agent in 2024. Gold Award- WBR (5-8 million dollars in sales) Silver Award – WBR (3-5 million dollars in sales) Memberships National Association of Realtors New York State Association of Realtors Westchester Board of Realtors Westchester Multiple Listing Service Community Former executive board member of the Central School Former selection school delegate for election of school board candidates Former executive board member of the Friends of the Emelin Theatre Former executive board member of the League of Women Voters