“The family quarters are the heart and soul of the house. They are where we live—really live—day in and day out,” writes Alabama-based interior designer Caroline Gidiere in her latest book, Interiors for a Life in Good Taste (Rizzoli, 2025). “I always urge my clients to think realistically and practically about how they live in these spaces. Of course, we should make room for aspirations to thoughtful, clever, centered lives. But alongside these aspirations, we must bow to convention and modern conveniences,” she adds. Over the years, Gidiere has developed a thorough list of “musts” for her clients’ family-centered spaces: there must be a microwave; there must be a visible TV in the family room; there must be practical fabrics that stand up to wear and tear; there must be a “drop zone” for coats and keys; and so on.

Dens, family rooms, and rec rooms, according to the designer, must be democratic in offering everyone both a seat and a place to set down a drink (somewhere to prop up your feet is a much- sought-after bonus). Contrary to some modern trends, Gidiere believes the television should occupy a central space in the room without being disguised as artwork. “If the primary function of the room is watching TV, then let it take pride of place,” she proclaims. “Just make sure all the seating has an unobstructed view.” In this deep blue basement built for social gatherings, Gidiere covered the walls in Snakeshead fabric by William Morris. A Kit Reuther painting hangs on the wall above a plush, velvet upholstered sectional that offers plenty of seating for the whole crew, while a leather ottoman and tiny drink table provide a spot for their beverages. Create your own cozy entertainment space with these nine finds.