10 steps to creating your family chill out space

You’re no doubt aware that too much stress can overload you leading to a range of health problems if not managed. While much is said about pressures at work, an overlooked source of strain is the lack of personal space in a small home. Not having enough privacy at home can cause tension, stress and anxiety, particularly within families…

Family together

Finding personal space in a small family home isn’t easy

When decorating and organising we focus on the functional areas – kitchen, bathroom, bedroom… and this is understandable. But we forget our home should be our sanctuary too.

A good idea is to create a relaxation zone that everyone can use when feeling stressed. With space at a premium it’s unlikely you’ll have a whole room available. Instead, find a corner of a larger room – the dining room or kitchen is fine.

While each family needs to make their chill out area suitable for their needs, there’s several elements to think about when setting up your chill out zone.

Top 10 tips for creating your relaxation space

1. Define the area… Mark out the space and ‘zone’ it. Paint the walls in a different colour or use a rug. Break up the space with a room divider or shelving unit. If you’re handy at DIY, attach a rail to the ceiling and hang a curtain or voile panel – take care with this if you have younger kids though, it’ll be likely that they’ll want to swing from the curtain!

Book shelves dividing a room
Bookshelves can be used to divide a room or to demarcate a zone for reading or relaxing…

2. Decorate in calming colours to invoke a sense of peace… Most colours on the cooler end of the colour spectrum are soothing – pastel blues, greens or purples. Pick one that blends well with the rest of the room – pairing too many colours will look cluttered.

Pale green wall with white lamp, bookcase and door
Pale colours will make a room look bigger and can be livened up with accessories and plants…

3. Go for comfort… Add a small sofa or armchair, large floor cushion or bean-bag – the latter are comfy for adults and kids and add to the relaxed feel. Soft furnishings such as cushions and throws help make the space cosy and warm.

Lounging bean bag
Bean bags and large cushions, such as the Extreme Lounging Bean Bag, are excellent for adding occasional lounging options, especially if kids are using the room too…

4. Give it atmosphere… Lighting is important in creating a mood. Natural lighting is best; try to position near a window overlooking the garden. Use a roman blind if the view isn’t great. If you can’t set up near a window, add a large reading lamp or cute paper lanterns. A large pot plant can add to the ambience and make the area feel more restful. Spider plants are good as they are non-toxic to humans or pets.

Venetian-style window blinds
Good lighting is essential in small spaces, no more so than natural light, position work stations near to windows if you are able…

5. Scent… Older families can use scented candles or aromatherapy oils. Lavender is the go-to fragrance for relaxation but pine can also reduce anxiety. Vanilla and jasmine scents are effective at lifting moods too. For younger families, pop some dried lavender into cushions.

Scented candles
Scented candles can reduce anxiety and lift mood…

6. Help kids relax with sensory tactile objects… ‘Fidget toys’ are used by occupational therapists to help children regulate emotions, release stress and calm down. Squishy or squeezable toys that are rubbery, fluffy or feel sticky all work well. Stress balls too – try a balloon filled with play dough, or use puzzles such as a Rubik cube.

Rubik's Cube
Fidget toys and puzzles, such as the original Rubik’s Cube, can help kids in lowering stress…

7. Reduce technology… Don’t fill your space with gadgets such as games consoles or a TV. Focus on calming activities.Reading reduces stress by over two-thirds so keep plenty of books or magazines on hand. Children can make the most of this area by using it as a reading nook. Music is also good for de-stressing so keep your iPod or some CDs on hand.

Child about to read a book
Having a calm area where kids can read will help reduce their reliance on screens and other technology…

8. Keep it tidy… A cluttered space detracts from the calming effect. Keep activities such as colouring books, pens or toys on a small shelf or in a box.

9.Set ground rules that suit your family… Rules may include only using the activities available there or banning mobile phones and social media checking while using the space.

10. Finally, keep it simple… Don’t cause yourself more stress by overcomplicating things. Keep the décor simple. Don’t set too many rules either or you’ll spend all your time policing the space and not enjoying it.

See Also
Kitchen merged with living room
Planning a Living Kitchen
Child's room with striped wallpaper
Make the Most of the Space in Children’s Rooms