Gathering in the Kitchen
Life + Style
Everyone always ends
up in the kitchen--especially at the holidays. From design tips to editor-chosen products, here's how to
make yours guest-friendly.
MAKE IT SOCIAL
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When entertaining, spending time with your guests is the whole point. But even the most seasoned hosts sometimes need to be taking care of things in the kitchen. Whether you're enjoying a glass of wine together or sharing in the meal prep, the mingling doesn't have to end.
A kitchen that's open to the dining or living areas is an ideal layout for socializing, but there are other features that can make your kitchen welcoming. A central island with counter stools gives your friends a place to perch and you a work space where your back isn't facing the party. Dimmed lights, unscented candles, and a bar
in the kitchen also encourage guests to stay awhile.
CHOOSE AN ISLAND
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Kitchen islands are a highly desirable kitchen feature, especially for entertaining. Here is our advice for choosing the right one for you.
- For best traffic flow, allow 36 inches around your island (including seating).
- An island in the center of your kitchen anchors the room and maximizes work flow.
- A peninsula can act as an island in an open floor plan that faces another room.
- A pot rack, task lighting, or range hood are functional additions.
- An island dressed up with brackets, decorative bases, and trims feels like custom furniture.
- Your island doesn't have to match your cabinets. It can be treated as an accent piece.
ADD COASTAL STYLE
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Bring the beach look home with these stylish details.
- Earthy-toned countertops are a nod to sandy shores.
- Seaside motifs--starfish, waves, coral, rope--bring a fun, casual vibe.
- Shades of blue and green are a natural complement to a seaside locale.
- Replace upper cabinets with open shelves for an airy look.
- Beaded board paneling gives a cottage spin to coastal style.
- Plank flooring in a kitchen feels warm and distinctly nautical.
Photo: Marc Royce
CREATE A GATHERING KITCHEN
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