A well-designed family room can truly be the heart of the household. But too often, the family room ends up feeling like either a formal parlor—stiff and uninviting—or a free-for-all kids’ playroom. Strike a balance by picking up some of these ideas for attractive, functional family rooms that look good and work hard for the families who live there. Create Family-Room Fusion Balance family-friendly with sophistication by including plenty of colors and chic patterns in your family room. Bright hues appeal to kids and adults alike, and a mix of patterns will give the space a designer vibe. Consider including outdoor fabrics, which are durable, or slipcovers, which are washable. Design It to Be Separate, yet Together Open living spaces can promote family togetherness: Mom and Dad can work in the kitchen while kids hang out in the living area or do homework at the dining table. Keep these distinct …