If you like to host events at home, the kitchen tends to be where guests gather. Gone are the days of mingling in a formal parlor while food is prepared in a separate kitchen.

Most kitchen designs today are geared around an open plan layout where the kitchen integrates with a dining or family room. This makes it an even more attractive place for guests to congregate and lets you, the host, prepare food and drinks while still interacting with visitors.

An open plan kitchen is just the beginning. Here are features to make your home entertainment-ready.

Integrated Entertainment System

A TV and music system takes your party to the next level. Watch the big game with guests while you serve appetizers, host a season premiere party for a favorite show, or watch the ball drop on New Year's Eve while you pour champagne. An integrated music system with speakers sets the tone for any event.

Storage for Electronics

Build in charging points and designated storage for phones, tablets, and laptops. House them in a drawer or specific cabinet alongside the router and other electronics. Since many of us control music from our devices, this makes managing the playlist easier during the party.

Music

If music is your love, consider incorporating a piano, guitar stand, or other instruments into the open plan kitchen and entertainment space. They make an eye-catching point of interest and let guests play their favorites.

Seating

Many holiday parties involve mingling and standing, but seating matters too. Depending on the event, you may need space for guests to sit and eat, a spot for them to chat while you cook, or a comfortable chair for them to rest. Use a dining table and island seats, plus comfortable chairs in the kitchen or adjacent living room. Extra seating shouldn't hinder traffic flow.

Beverage Center

A beverage center or undercounter refrigerator gives guests a place to top up their wine, get a coffee, or grab a soft drink, away from the main work zone in the kitchen. We dig into beverage bars in our beverage bar guide.

Multi-Layered Lighting

Lighting is key to any kitchen, and versatile lighting lets you set the mood for a party. Create atmosphere with a dimmer switch or ample ambient lights while keeping enough task lighting to read recipes and chop. Spotlight a favorite piece of artwork with accent lights, or use a decorative fixture as a focal point.

Talk through entertaining with a designer

If you're planning a kitchen designed for hosting, we'd love to talk.

Schedule a showroom visit at our 5,000 square foot showroom in Norwell. No pressure, just a real conversation about your home.

Transitions Kitchens, Baths & Remodeling
433 Washington St, Norwell, MA
(781) 871-0881