Sunken living rooms, also known as conversation pits, have been around since the 1920s and were popularized in the 1950s and 1960s. This type of living room is characterized by a lowered floor area that is typically situated in the centre of a larger room. Although sunken living rooms require additional effort and cost during construction, there are several reasons why you should consider having one in your home. In this article, we will explore the benefits of sunken living rooms and provide tips on how to make the most out of this unique feature.
Benefits of Sunken Living Rooms
1. Adds Character and Drama to Homes
Sunken living rooms can add character and drama to homes that have a box-like layout. Certain homes even include circular recessed chambers and unique woodwork to draw the eye to the details. This feature fosters closeness and creates a more intimate atmosphere in your house [1].
2. Provides a Cozy Atmosphere
Cosy sunken rooms furnished with plush sofas and pillows are an excellent way to create a more intimate atmosphere in your house. This space is perfect for social gatherings and can provide a comfortable spot for relaxation or entertainment [3].
3. Offers Versatility in Design
Sunken living rooms are versatile enough to fit various styles and are also a good fit for outdoor spaces. They are an unexpected design feature that can bring a high-end feel to your home. Additionally, they break down large spaces and add dynamics to a monotonous area [5].
4. Separates Areas in Open Floor Plans
Sunken living rooms can help to separate areas in open floor plans without the use of walls or other typical separating elements, such as columns or counters. This feature can create an interesting flow and give a definite separation between the two areas [8].
Factors to Consider
1. Cost
Sunken living rooms require additional effort and cost during construction. They may increase the costs of building the foundation by 10 to 20 percent. Safety first, consider installing railings by the steps and even at the top of the recessed area. It may also be required, depending on where you live [2].
2. Safety
Sunken living rooms may pose a slight safety hazard as it may cause trips and falls. Railings should be considered when planning for a sunken living room to ensure the safety of its occupants [3][7].
3. Feng Shui
Sunken rooms are actually not good for feng shui. They can cause a lot of ups and downs in life and because they are a safety issue, can lead to health issues [9].
How to Make the Most Out of Sunken Living Rooms
1. Furnish with Cozy Seating
Furnishing your sunken living room with cosy seating is essential in creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Plush sofas and pillows can provide the perfect spot for relaxation or socialise with family and friends. Consider incorporating different textures and colours to add visual interest and create a warm ambience.
2. Lighting
Consider installing dimmer lights or multiple light sources to create a warm and cosy atmosphere. This can also help to highlight the unique design of your sunken living room.
3. Decor
Use decor elements such as rugs, artwork, and plants to accentuate the design of your sunken living room. These elements can add visual interest and warmth to the space.
4. Entertainment
Sunken living rooms are perfect for entertainment, consider installing a home theatre system or a fireplace to create a cosy atmosphere for movie nights or family gatherings.
5. Accessibility
Make sure to take into account the accessibility of the sunken living room, especially for children or elderly individuals. Consider installing railings or non-slip surfaces to ensure safety.
In conclusion, a sunken living room is a unique and versatile design feature that can add character and drama to your home. While it may require additional effort and cost during construction, the benefits of having a sunken living room, such as providing a cosy atmosphere and separating areas in open floor plans, make it a worthwhile investment. With proper planning and design, you can make the most out of this unique feature and create a warm and inviting space in your home.