Party on! Quick ways to amp up your Florida fun room

Tony Regan, Brand Publishing Writer

Blender? Check. Salt shaker and lime? Check. Parrot lights hanging from a straw hut? Check. TV showing the game and a “cheeseburger in paradise” on the grill? You’ve got yourself a Florida party room.

It’s not always sunny in Florida, of course. No problem: The party can go year-round by redecorating your “fun” room to create a festive space for impromptu get-togethers no matter the season.

That’s the advice of Janet Graham, a designer at Baer’s Furniture, a family-owned chain with 15 showrooms throughout Florida, who believes that decorating a fun room means putting an emphasis on fun. Do these five things to ensure the party starts and continues.

Focus on fun: “Pick colors and wall decor, lighted fixtures — all things that stimulate the brain. Think of a large TV or multiple TV’s, high top tables, bar stools,” she said.

This technique works with any theme you can think of: sports, music, movies, video game characters and more. There are limitless ways to match your themes with tchotchkes and accessories, celebrating your favorite team, musical performer or movie.

Be careful: Graham also recommended covering your furnishings in durable fabrics. Items covered in indoor-outdoor upholstery will be less susceptible to stains when your guests get a little over-exuberant with their tropical drinks. Consider having space for barstools, as well as lower seating and tables for lounging or conversation.

Be bold: No matter what theme you choose, really run with it. Keep it fun and keep it bold. Put three or four flat screen TVs in the room, amp up the surround sound, and festoon the room with posters, photos and sports cards of team heroes. Even paper a wall with famous quotes from team members. Don’t forget to display special memorabilia like signed bats.

Be theatrical: Movie buffs? A full cinematic treatment for a rec room can transform the space into a home theater. Just be consistent and make sure everything contributes to the overall look. If you really want the full look and feel of the cinema, hang curtains on the sides of the room and use dimmable sconces for the perfect mood lighting. Now all you’ll need is the popcorn.

Flex your space: But amid all this fun, don’t forget function. That means using the right furniture, Graham said. Consider multiuse furniture or durable furniture that folds away. Just make sure it’s comfortable.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect entertaining sofa for your man cave or “just right” barstools for your faux- but fun home bar, think of Baer’s, a one-stop shop for all things party room.