The main difference between a living room and a drawing room is their purpose. Living rooms are for everyday activities like relaxing and spending time with family. Drawing rooms are for formally welcoming and entertaining guests. Most homes have a living room, but drawing rooms are less common. You’ll often find drawing rooms in medium to large houses.While both are types of lounge areas, they serve different functions. Below, we’ve outlined the key differences to help you decide which one suits yoru home best.
What is a Living Room?
The living room, often called a sitting room or guest lounge, is where homeowners and families gather. It’s a space for relaxation and entertainment. Guests are also welcomed here. The term “living room” is newer than “drawing-room.”
Size
Typically, the living room is a visible, shared space immediately accessible upon entering. It often features a fireplace, sofas, a statement table, and sometimes an entertainment unit. This versatile area serves family and guests well. Furniture is key, requiring over 10 square meters to create a truly relaxing and stylish surroundings.
Function
The main goal of this space is to cater to the family’s needs, not guests. it’s a haven where people can relax and be themselves freely. more than just a family gathering spot,it doubles as a home theater. In the past, living rooms and entertainment rooms were distinct. Now,a TV transforms the space into a popular common area. Here, people unwind, watch streaming services, or enjoy music and dancing.
Interestingly, the living room’s original name was “burial room.” Following world War I, a devastating infectious disease outbreak caused widespread fatalities. Traditionally, families kept the deceased in the front room before burial, so the term “death room.” While Filipino families still use the living room for memorial services, it was renamed “living room.” This change reflects its evolution into a more vibrant space, moving away from its somber origins as a place of mourning.
Location
Unlike other rooms, the living room is easily accessible. You can frequently enough see it right from the entrance. It’s frequently next to the dining room, creating a connected space. Location is key; it impacts the room’s usability, even without furniture. This large area frequently enough projects a feeling of prominence compared to other spaces in the house.
When planning your home’s interior,avoid centering the living room.This rule, aligning with recommendations for two external living room walls, ensures positive energy flows freely and promotes well-being. A centrally located living room hinders efficient energy movement. Energy must navigate through multiple areas, slowing circulation and eventually causing stagnation.
What is the Drawing Room?
The term “drawing room” originated in the 1700s and 1800s. It described a space mainly for social gatherings and mingling. It wasn’t a leisure area for residents. Instead, it served as a waiting area for guests before meals.A drawing room allowed hosts to entertain visitors during their stay. These rooms were common during the age of steam power, afternoon tea, and elaborate fashion. Drawing rooms were often near the entrance hall. This allowed guests to relax quickly upon arrival.
size
A drawing room offers a more intimate setting compared to a formal dining room. It can be as compact as a space for a living room set or a small boardroom table. Alternatively, it can expand to the size of a full suite. Its size is key to its versatility, making it ideal for both casual and formal events. It’s perfect for hosting gatherings and conferences due to its capacity. typically,a drawing room measures around eight to ten square meters. This smaller size, compared to a living room, suits its purpose for private conversations and similar activities.
function
Today’s drawing rooms are versatile spaces. They can be living areas, entertainment hubs, or grand atriums. Forget strict traditions! Focus on seating when designing a modern drawing room. Ensure ample, agreeable seating for guests. The remaining furnishings will naturally complement the space.
Drawing rooms,often adjacent to dining halls,served as gathering spaces. People met for coffee, wine, and engaging discussions, mainly for leisure. Women also used these rooms for private conversations. Meanwhile, men would meet separately to enjoy stronger drinks. Later, both groups would reunite in the dining hall for supper, fostering a sense of togetherness.
Location
Guests can directly access the drawing room, as it’s usually near the entrance. Its proximity to the front door eliminates the need to walk through other rooms. The living room is generally centrally located within the house. When designing a drawing room, consider a floor slope towards the north or east. Heavier items and displays should be placed in the southwest, west, or south areas, based on their weight.