How to Design for Entertaining During the Holidays and Beyond

The holidays mean hosting season, and it is the time of year when you really see how well your home's layout works. The two most important things to consider for entertaining are space and function.

Do you have enough room for guests, and does that space work well? Overnight guests need places to sleep, but for everyone, the kitchen and living areas matter most because that is where guests spend their time.

What Is Your Entertaining Style?

• Do you host large gatherings or small, intimate groups?
• Will guests stay inside, or do you want to use outdoor space too?
• Are your parties formal dinners or casual get-togethers?
• Is the meal a potluck, homemade or catered?

The best space for entertaining is one that matches how you entertain.

Large, Casual Gatherings: Go Open

An open concept plan connects the living room, kitchen and dining area so guests can move freely and the host stays part of the party. Learn more in open floor plan versus traditional.

• An island or large peninsula is perfect for serving food and drinks and adds seating.
• With seating in the kitchen, dining and living areas, you may not need extra chairs.
• Keep lighting, wall color and flooring consistent so the open space feels unified and larger.

Formal Dinner Parties: Define the Dining Room

For smaller, formal gatherings, a separate dining room keeps cooking mess out of sight, gives caterers or a private chef room to work and keeps the conversation quiet. A closed kitchen can still be beautiful and updated with new cabinets, lighting, surfaces and storage.

Take It Outside

In the South, we can enjoy the outdoors much of the year. A covered deck or screened porch adds entertaining space, and a sunroom gives you room to host in any season. Converting a deck or porch to a sunroom is a great way to gain year-round space. Learn about adding a sunroom.

Ready for Next Year's Party?

If this season leaves you feeling cramped, consider a layout change, kitchen remodel or addition so you are ready to host an even better party next year. See our holiday remodeling ideas, then call Tracy Tesmer Design and Remodeling at 678-450-1700 or contact us online.

This article originally appeared in Lakeside News.