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Collection by William Lamb

Modern Multipurpose Rooms

The great room—a combined living, dining, and cooking space—is one of architecture's great equalizers. People often want to be together without being sequestered into separate rooms for socializing and food preparation. This is particularly true of a cook who would rather chat with guests while he entertains than be hidden behind a closed door. Here, from Dwell's archives, are seven comfortable, modern great rooms that live up to the name.

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The living room is furnished with Modernica’s Split Rail loveseat and sofa and a walnut Eames stool from Herman Miller. The dining area features Vico Magistretti’s Maui chairs and an Antonio Citterio Glossy table, both from plastics expert Kartell.
The living room is furnished with Modernica’s Split Rail loveseat and sofa and a walnut Eames stool from Herman Miller. The dining area features Vico Magistretti’s Maui chairs and an Antonio Citterio Glossy table, both from plastics expert Kartell.
In a Melbourne suburb, a family of four redefines “interior design” with a private house that doubles as a public art gallery. Photo by Dianna Snape.
In a Melbourne suburb, a family of four redefines “interior design” with a private house that doubles as a public art gallery. Photo by Dianna Snape.
The couple lounges in their great room. The 16-foot-high windows are from Milgard.
The couple lounges in their great room. The 16-foot-high windows are from Milgard.
Most of the furniture in the living room is from London flea markets and eBay.
Most of the furniture in the living room is from London flea markets and eBay.
A mature avocado tree shades the hardscaped patio located just outside the great room.
A mature avocado tree shades the hardscaped patio located just outside the great room.
The great room's high, pitched roof and neutral walls give the space an open, tranquil feel, making it a desirable spot for the couple to pursue two of their passions: classical music and literature.
The great room's high, pitched roof and neutral walls give the space an open, tranquil feel, making it a desirable spot for the couple to pursue two of their passions: classical music and literature.