Introduction to the Home Lounge
The home lounge is a new trend in home design that has gained popularity in recent years, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s a room that serves as a multipurpose space for relaxation, entertainment, and socialization. Interior designers Lindsey Herod and Hallie Henley Sims have seen a surge in demand for this type of room, which can be used for various activities such as watching the news, meditating, or enjoying a glass of wine or cocktail.
The Rise of the Home Lounge
According to Herod, the concept of a home lounge is not new, but it has become more popular in recent years. "Decades ago, it was common for everyone to have a bar," she says. "This absolutely became popular during COVID. There was a big surge in staying home and making cocktails at home and not going out to bars." The home lounge has become a way for people to create a functional and comfortable space in their homes, especially in areas that were previously underutilized, such as formal living rooms or dining rooms.
Designing the Perfect Home Lounge
When it comes to designing a home lounge, Herod and Sims agree that comfort and functionality are key. They recommend using deep, rich colors and a moody tone to create a cozy atmosphere. Comfortable furniture with luxurious texture, preferably performance fabric, is also essential to ensure that the space is practical and easy to maintain. For one client, Herod used saturated color, Farrow and Ball’s Studio Green, to create a unique and inviting space. Sims, on the other hand, used sumptuous velvet to make the seating feel luxurious and comfortable in one of her designs.
Creative Uses for the Home Lounge
The home lounge can be used in various ways, depending on the client’s needs and preferences. For one client, Amen turned an extra bedroom into a wine room and lounge, complete with books, barware, and objets d’art. Another client converted their dining room into a lounge, which is now used daily for morning coffee, evening cocktails, and social gatherings. Sims also designed a lounge that doubles as a wine room, complete with a climate-controlled wine storage closet.
Essential Elements of a Home Lounge
To create a functional and comfortable home lounge, there are several essential elements to consider. These include:
- Comfortable furniture with luxurious texture, such as performance velvet
- Deep, rich colors and a moody tone to create a cozy atmosphere
- A bar or counter area for drinks and storage
- Cabinetry or shelving for storing wine glasses and barware
- Dramatic backsplash tile or wallpaper for added luxury
Making the Most of a Small Space
Even small spaces can be converted into a functional and comfortable home lounge. For one client, Amen installed a marble ledge in front of a window and a pair of wheeled chairs, creating a cozy and intimate space. Sims also recommends using darker shades of stone for counters to avoid red wine stains and considering dramatic backsplash tile or wallpaper for added luxury.
Conclusion
The home lounge is a versatile and functional space that can be used for various activities and social gatherings. By incorporating comfortable furniture, deep, rich colors, and luxurious textures, homeowners can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for relaxation and entertainment. Whether it’s a small, intimate space or a larger, more elaborate room, the home lounge is a great way to make the most of underutilized areas in the home and create a functional and comfortable space that meets the needs of modern living.
