In many homes, gone are the days when we had formal parlors or other areas of the home reserved exclusively for guests. With today's busy lifestyles, families have recouped these areas in favor of maximizing much needed space. And that means furnishings need to weather every day punishments and still look good. Who has time for the upkeep of delicate fabrics and fussy accessories? Do yourself a favor - relieve some of the stress of daily living with furnishings that are easy to maintain.

Adjust your attitude. If ever there was a time to relax about your home, it is now. Your home is not a museum and should not feel like one. Consider your home a work in progress. Since there will always be things you want to change, your home will never be completely "done". Resolve to enjoy the process of making your home uniquely yours.

Your home can and should reflect your interests. Let your hobbies, crafts and travels set the tone for how to decorate and use your home. Collections and inherited possessions all make a home feel warm, inviting, and most importantly, lived in.

Rustic, whimsical elements and cottage style pieces are perfect for casual living; it is a great look and easy to maintain. A rough-hewn, twiggy piece of furniture is fun, although a room full is definitely overkill. Theme decorated rooms, like the lodge look, are also best done on a small scale, like a powder room or guestroom.

Warm colors are always right. Golden hues, terra cotta, sage green and barn red all work well together to create a homey atmosphere. Go for shades that are medium toned - they are less likely to show wear and soil.

Texture also plays a role in creating the good life. Nubby weaves for both fabrics and carpets are popular once again, but also practical. Choose a patterned carpet with a leafy design or a geometric pattern like a diamond or square check. The more patterned it is, the more easy care it will be. A textured cut pile will have less pattern, but will be less likely to show vacuum marks and foot prints than a smooth cut pile, which tends to be more formal.

Window treatments are not a necessity. If you can't afford good quality window treatments, leave the windows bare other than simple blinds for privacy. Shutters and fabric shades are two good choices that will be long lasting, but do require more of an investment than mini-blinds. You can always add decorative treatments down the road, but until then enjoy a clean, uncomplicated look for the windows.

Choose substantial furniture over delicate, fragile pieces. A comfy sofa should invite you to sink in and put your feet up whereas a formal wingback chair with ornate details will just make you worry. Overstuffed furniture with a few wrinkles and rumples is OK. Slipcovers, another relaxed look, are also very practical for families; many slipcover fabrics can be tossed right in with the laundry.

Opt for wood furniture with some age and character. Painted pieces as well as those that have been distressed are a good solution for families. Substantial wood furnishings with a bit of wear can easily weather future scratches and dents.

Finally, forget the fussy home accents that require frequent attention. Accessories like wrought iron, tin and pottery all coexist beautifully and are much more durable than delicate objets d'arte. Combine easy to maintain furnishings with quilts, wreaths, candles and other homespun touches to complete the picture of a simple life.

So the next time you visit your local home store, remember: furniture and accessories that need less upkeep means more time for you and your family to actually enjoy your home.