1. Create out-of-the-way seating. Lounge seating is great for keeping guests comfortable and out of the way when you’re cooking, so consider adding a window seat or sofa. While many kitchens have bar stools, lounge seats are more comfortable, and lower seats are easier for elderly guests to use. Built-in seating can also include storage for pots or platters. This kitchen window seat feels inviting with its bright cushions and garden view.

Adding a lounge seat to a window could be a way to enhance your kitchen for guests without investing in a full remodel. Or it could be a good project to consider as part of a larger kitchen remodel down the road.

2. Design your kitchen around a fireplace, or add one. Is there anything cozier than a crackling fire at a family holiday? If you are expanding your kitchen into another room or even building a new home, consider including a fireplace in the kitchen. We always light fires in our living room during winter parties, but it’s not enough to draw the crowds; everyone still hangs out in the kitchen. If a new fireplace is not an option for your renovation plan, try to open sight lines to a hearth in another room that has one.

Alternatively, a wood-burning stove gives even more warmth than a fireplace and can be installed at a much lower cost. Some wood stoves can also be used for cooking or keeping a dish warm.

3. Install glass-front cabinets or open shelves. Keeping dishes and barware in glass-front cabinets is a great way to make guests comfortable because it makes it easier for them to find items without having to ask. Guests will also feel more comfortable helping unload the dishwasher if they can see where dishes go, and who doesn’t like help with that? The glass cabinet doors in this kitchen bring more color to the room by displaying colorful china.

4. Build in convenient garbage and recycling areas. It’s so annoying when you’re trying to do dishes at a party where the garbage is under the sink, and you constantly have to move every time a guest needs to throw out a napkin. Although you do want to keep garbage near the sink, try to place it where guests can easily access it without blocking the sink, stove or dishwasher. Try locating garbage and recycling near the end of your island or peninsula so guests don’t have to enter your work zone. This kitchen has a convenient trash station that also keeps paper towels easy to see and grab — key if there are spills at your party!

5. Install speakers and dimmers. A bright and quiet kitchen may be ideal for the everyday, but parties are quite the opposite. Lights are dimmed, and music gets turned up. Dimmers are easy to install, and they give good ambience for a party. This kitchen has a nearby television and speakers, so guests and cooks can keep their eye on the game while hanging out in the kitchen.

Get in touch. Let’s talk about your projects!

Contact A Beautiful Co for your next custom build! We want to help you make the perfect living space for you. Reach out today.

A Beautiful Company started out as a painting and remodeling contractor specializing in old world craftsmanship. It has evolved into a major general contracting business over the past 27 years. Now a Beautiful Company is a multi-million dollar, women owned, commercial and residential construction company with clients in three states; Connecticut, New York and Rhode Island.

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