The Kitchen for Entertaining

Lifestyles have changed over the years, and so have kitchens! A kitchen suited for entertaining

is often at the top of clients’ lists, and there are some key elements that fulfill that request.

Island

We recommend incorporating an island for entertaining, if possible. It is a great place to offer

refreshments and truly anchors the space. An island with seating is both inviting and easy on

guests. However, if an island isn’t possible, try to create intimate moments in your home, such as

upholstered occasional chairs around a breakfast table, or a table that extends for larger dinner

parties. Diverse seating is important for hosting.

Beverage Center

Whether your guests are drinking coffee, wine, beer, soda, or Yoo-hoo, a designated beverage

center will make them feel welcome. We like to incorporate wine and beverage refrigerators

under the counter. If space allows, an icemaker is perfect for families hitting the boat or headed

to sports, but also serves well during parties and holidays. We also often top the beverage center

off with glass-front cabinetry that both shows the guests where the glassware is and brightens the room with light.

Clean, Functional Designs

Kitchen gadgets like an air fryer, instant pot, and toaster oven have become more popular during

the past three years as more people are cooking at home. Incorporating pocket doors in the

cabinetry allows for daily appliance use, but then closes it away while hosting guess. If you are

considering a coffee bar, pocket doors can be a great solution for hiding the coffee maker. The

client who loves to host may also opt for adding a 2nd dishwasher drawer and paneling the

dishwasher and refrigerator create a seamless look.

Butler’s Pantry

Forget hiring a butler- a butler’s pantry is all that and more. While historically it was intended

for silver and heirloom storage, today’s butler’s pantry can also host an additional dishwasher,

refrigerator, and sink-and we often add the microwave in the butler’s pantry so that the kitchen

has a seamless look. We incorporate versatile storage like roll out trays, drawers, open shelves,

and even wine cubes in this space for easy access of platters and serve ware. Though the butler’s

pantry should coordinate with the kitchen aesthetic, it can also be a fun place to use color or

drama.

Lighting

Speaking of drama, lighting is key in the entertainer’s kitchen. Overhead flush lights work well

for task lighting, and under cabinet, large pendants, and sconces can add beautiful warmth and

highlights to the space. We recommend using a dimmer for those who want to incorporate a

beautiful glow in their space.

We would love to help customize your entertainer’s kitchen with our talented team of designers

and beautiful selections of finishes. Call us to for a consultation!