This eclectic home may look "hands off," but upon closer inspection it's clear that it was created with kids in mind. Says interior designer Anne Peters, who worked on the home and is owner of Anne Peters Interiors (296-7439), "From how we used the space to what we put in that space, we focused on how to best serve this family's needs."

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A front entry bench is a great rest stop for your family's busy comings and goings. Pillows provide added comfort to a settee. An easy way to add color accents is to change out the pillows with the season.

Create the illusion of a grander space in your room with a propped-up floor mirror. Floor mirrors expand the sense of space by reflecting the light; this large-scale mirror is very effective because it also reflects back part of the other room.

To make a big statement in a small dining room, use large pieces - yes, large - but only a few of them. If your dining room is spatially challenged, consider a slim-profile buffet and hutch to offer display and storage space while providing the visual impact to define the space.

The philosophy is embodied in the use of velvet-like fabric that can be hosed off (Yes, you read that right!) when necessary and the addition of a loft to increase "cozy space." Says Peters, "We also 'flipped' the original dining room and living room spaces to create a larger light-filled dining space and an intimate, comfortable seating area that is perfect for reading and playing games."

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A great way to have extra seating on hand without over furnishing your room is with a few stools. This versatile seating option completes a seating circle and maintains the view to the television or fireplace.

A daybed is a clever design element that allows your space to double as a guest room for overnight visitors.

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A neutral color palette does not have to be boring. This monochromatic family room is more interesting with the use of texture and accessories. Statement pieces like the round wood-framed mirror create visual interest. The simple, clean lines of the furniture are warmed up with textured fabrics.

Not every chair in the family room needs to have a view of the TV. Offer a seat or two to complete a conversation circle. A lamp placed near an accent chair will serve as a quiet reading corner when the TV is turned off. Add a small table to place your book and reading glasses.

Maintaining the look is simple. "We selected clean-lined furniture and lighting, paired with large-scale accessories, to give a bold impact while minimizing clutter," explains the interior designer. "We were also lucky to have access to custom-created furniture that fit perfectly with available space and design ideas," she says. The homeowners relied heavily on Suburban Chateau's (775-2980) wide selection of fabrics, affordable custom furniture and accessories.

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Sometimes the only spot to place the bed is against the window. These bright and happy draperies serve up three functions when closed: light control, privacy and a fabric "headboard" for the colorful bed.

These mirrored closet doors shimmer as they reflect the sunlight pouring into the bedroom. Consider adding a framed mirror on top of your mirrored closet doors for added visual interest.
Tami Smight is a full-service interior designer who has been gracing Southern California homes with warm, accessible designs since 2004.www.tamismightinteriors.com 430-0127

Key to this design was the mix of style influences. "This family loves many styles and we combined traditional, rustic, modern, Asian and a touch of industrial with found and manufactured architectural elements. These all combine for a warm, family friendly space that they are happy to call home," reflects Peters.