The Old-School Decorating Trend That Makes Your Home Feel Staged & Lack Personality

While kitchens, bedrooms, and living rooms are the most important rooms in a house to most people, the rest of the house is also valuable and worthy of good design. However, some older or larger houses have extra spaces that don't come standard — they're often designed for more formal events, such as hosting parties, holidays, or even dining. Those formal rooms may include parlors, sitting rooms, and dining rooms, spaces that feel outdated as individuals decorate them like a pristine showroom with no personal effects. Even more, the decoration style makes them feel cold and unwelcoming.

Why do these rooms exist? In the 20th century, homes had these extra rooms where guests would be escorted. These areas were outfitted with the finest furniture, where small hands and paws were prohibited from entering. After World War I, influenza broke out, eventually leading people to convert these parlors into wake or grieving rooms for funerals. Typically, the area is at the front of the home, similar to many modern formal dining rooms. 

The décor in a drawing room is usually more polished and elegant, with a focus on luxurious materials, like velvet, wood, leather, and silk. There may be other features, like a grand piano, antique pieces, stunning mirrors, and statement chandeliers. These zones have restricted character, feeling strategic, stiff, and unoccupied. But don't worry, this space doesn't have to remain lackluster. All you have to do is convert it into a second living space or a functional zone that you'll ultimately use and love.

Your formal room doesn't have to stay boring; instead, you can flip it into a second living space or even a functional area of your home. This family room idea is really helpful, especially when you have a household with different ages and interests, allowing everyone to group off and thoroughly enjoy their night. It also becomes another chill zone or sleepover spot when extended family or even friends come over to hang out or spend the night. Once you have your den set up, don't forget to deck it out with various living room ideas that will inspire, such as plants, pops of color, and eye-catching chairs.

When it comes to a functional space, it can be almost anything you need at the time, when you use enough creativity. For families with small children, convert it into a playroom or entertainment area, providing a safe space for them to have fun. If you work from home, transform it into an effective, organized office. 

Alternatively, you can opt for a home theater or a hobby room, as these are bonus rooms people really want in their home. No matter what you choose, make sure to decorate in a way that matches your home's aesthetic. Some of these projects may also require additional remodeling work, so you may need the assistance of a professional, especially if it requires electrical work or structural changes.