A dedicated den is a wonderful winter retreat

A dedicated den is a wonderful winter retreat

That little room where the kids spread out to do their homework while watching TV (the big TV)? Always a bit disheveled and the first place you look for your lost car keys? The den, right?

Probably not. That's more like the definition of a family room. Few homes, especially newer ones, have dens anymore and that's because we don't make time for them in our busy, noisy lives. Electronics and a fast pace dominate how we designate the rooms of our home and "den" often doesn't fit the mold. Your Chicago furniture retailer can give you some good ideas for creating a den.

What is a den?

Well, before I give you my definition, let's look at some official ones. My 1935 Webster's Dictionary defines a den as: a lair of a wild animal; a small squalid dwelling; or a private retreat, a room in a dwelling fitted for a man's work or reading in comfort and seclusion.

Interestingly, that last definition has completely disappeared in today's online Merriam-Webster dictionary. It defines den only as: the lair of a wild, usually predatory animal; a hollow or cavern used especially as a hideout ; a center of secret activity; or a small usually squalid dwelling.

I guess we'll have to go with the "center of secret activity or the hideout".

But I really like the "private retreat" best. That's the kind of den I grew up with. My parents bought an old home when I was very young. Built in 1921, it came complete with a den, cordoned off from the living room by French doors. We always called it a den, and still do. I loved "hiding" in the den. It was a great place to read on rainy Sunday afternoons, a quiet place to do my homework - especially writing, and the place where our Christmas tree held court each year, with presents literally spilling out to the doorway.

Though many of us no longer have a dedicated den, we tend to carve them out of other rooms. One corner of my bedroom has a wing chair and a reading lamp. I love to sit and read or write in that secluded spot. I can gaze out the window at the beautiful old homes and trees in my neighborhood and feel at peace.

Why is a den important?

Well, the room we used to designate as the den has likely become the home office or family room. It may even be piled with stuff that doesn't have a home, wasting space that could serve as an oasis.

Now is the time to stand up and reclaim your den! The pace of our lives should necessitate it. Start with a comfortable chair and a decorative accent or family photo that you absolutely love. Make sure there is good lighting. Decorate with soothing colors and find room for a bookcase. Your Chicago office furniture dealer can help you find the perfect size and finish.

Clutter, unless it's a pile of favorite magazines, has no place in a den. This is a place of relaxation. No stress allowed! If you want to house a collection that brings you joy or some antique knick-knacks, find a nice curio cabinet for your den. Chicago furniture retailers have a large selection of pieces that would be perfect for your private retreat.

Happy hiding!

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