Kitchens, especially around the holidays, are hubs of activity with prepping, cooking, baking, and our favorite - gathering! Whether it be just for coffee and conversation or an extravagant meal, our kitchens draw us in and become the source of our fondest family memories.
When discussing kitchen design with our clients, we consistently see 3 elements of a kitchen that encourage gathering:
ISLANDS
What started as a functional need during colonial times with wooden farm tables has now evolved into an integral part of kitchen design. Today, islands come in many shapes and sizes and serve many purposes:
Additional counter space for food prepping
A place for appliances - stovetops, microwaves, ovens, ice makers and more
Additional storage/cabinetry
Sitting area for eating
Tip: Try a bold material or color when designing your island. It's not as extravagant as doing your whole cabinetry, but still makes a statement.
Top Left: Photo courtesy of Eurocraft Granite & Marble
BOOTH SEATING
Booth seating checks all the boxes! It's fun, inviting, but also versatile. And depending on your style, it can be casual or elegant. Booths are also a great way to add more seating in your kitchen and save a bit of space. They are intimate and cozy for any gathering whether you’re playing a game or sharing a meal.
Tip: Trap those teenagers in the middle (without their phones!) for some fun conversation!
CUSTOM TABLES
The dinner table is no doubt a gathering place in any home. Although you can find many beautiful tables in retail stores, a custom table designed just for your space and with your family in mind is priceless.
Tip: Your custom piece doesn't have to match your kitchen exactly, but should only compliment it. Think timeless for this design.
Photo courtesy of Mel Bean Interiors/Laurey Glenn
FINAL THOUGHTS
The kitchen, often called the heart of a home, has the power to draw in family members as well as our guests to gather together to eat, discuss, work and to just be. It is a family hub and thus, should be designed with this in mind.