What Is A Parlor Room? What Was A Parlor Room Used For?
What Is A Parlor Room?
A parlor room is a social gathering place in a home, typically with comfortable furnishings and decor that encourages conversation and relaxation.
Generally located on the main floor, near the entrance of a house, this space might be used for formal gatherings or informal get-togethers with family and friends.
It may feature chic décor like velvet upholstered sofas, antique furniture pieces, artworks, and other decorative elements like vases and sculptures.
Some people use the space to host board game nights or small holiday parties while others simply enjoy spending time chatting over tea or coffee. Parlor rooms are also great spaces to showcase special collections or treasures.
What Was A Parlor Room Used For?
A parlor room was a common feature in many 19th century homes and was used as a space for socializing and hosting guests, such as during afternoon tea.
It was generally the best-furnished and the most formal room in the house, often with an ornate fireplace and delicate furnishings.
The ladies of the house could entertain guests in these rooms while the menfolk enjoyed their drinks in a separate room known as a “smoking room”.
These formal parlors were gradually replaced by more informal living rooms towards the end of the 1800’s.
What Is The Difference Between A Living Room And A Parlour?
The main difference between a living room and a parlour is the purpose they serve.
A living room is the central part of a home that’s used for entertaining guests, watching television or just hanging out with family.
It serves as an informal gathering space for residents and visitors alike to relax and socialize.
On the other hand, a parlour is generally more formal than a living room; it is a small sitting area typically connected to an entryway in which people can wait before being ushered into another room—often for special events like dinner parties or meetings.
Parlours may also have extra features like fireplaces, grand pianos or art displays that are not present in typical living rooms.
Why Is Parlour Important?
A parlour is an important part of a home as it serves as the first and main entertainment centre for family members and guests.
It is the most socializing place of the home where people come together to watch television, enjoy music, host small parties and gatherings with friends, or simply relax.
A well-furnished parlour not only provides visual appeal but also helps inspire conversations with its comfortable seating arrangements.
Moreover, it can be used as a transitional space between formal and informal lifestyle to bridge differences in generational thinking and cultures.
Thus, having a good parlour is essential for creating a warm atmosphere within the home that makes everyone feel welcome and comfortable.
