Designing The Ultimate Party Kitchen: Tips & Inspiration For Kitchen Entertainment

Posted by Rhian Burrell, on March 28, 2024.

Are you someone who loves hosting gatherings and throwing parties? If so, then having a kitchen designed for entertaining is a certain game-changer. Gone are the days when kitchens were merely functional spaces tucked away from the social hub of your home. Today, kitchens have become vibrant, interactive spaces where cooking, mingling, and entertaining come together effortlessly.

We’ve pulled together some tips and inspiration to help you make sure that your bespoke kitchen design is the perfect space for entertaining.

Kitchen design ideas for entertaining

Open plan layout

One of the key elements of a party-friendly space is an open plan kitchen layout. Breaking down barriers between the kitchen and living areas helps to create a space where guests can unwind, while the host takes care of the spread for the evening!

Make use of a kitchen island

A well-designed kitchen island can serve as the centre of your party kitchen. Not only does it provide an additional prep and serving space, but it also doubles up as a casual dining area or as a spot for guests to get together over some nibbles.

Kitchen islands are also ideal for extra storage – wine racks and drinks fridges can be added to these units during the design stage, giving them some extra practicality.

Choose low-maintenance materials

Opting for low-maintenance materials is a must if your bespoke kitchen is going to double up as a social hub. Some worktop materials tell many tales – from red wine spills, accidents with colouring pens, or the aftermath of many messy baking afternoons. 

Options that can withstand these types of wear and tear will be wipe-clean, durable, and scratch-resistant to ensure that your kitchen stays looking its best.

Increase your space and bring the outdoors inside with bifold or patio kitchen doors

If your space allows, consider installing bifold or patio doors to connect your kitchen to the garden. This not only expands your available space, but it also creates indoor-outdoor living for all of your guests to enjoy during the summer months (or, around the warmth of a chiminea given the typical UK weather!).

Practical tips for your social kitchen space

Make savvy seating choices

Seating arrangements are one of the main ways to promote a social kitchen. Choose options that are stylish and can be easily stowed away to avoid creating obstacles in your space.

Opt for built in storage solutions

Keep clutter at bay by investing in built-in storage solutions that maximise space and keep your kitchen looking tidy when you have guests over. 

We also know that managing family life and entertaining can be full-on, so consider pull-out shelves, deep drawers, and concealed cabinets – these are perfect for storing everything from serving platters and cocktail glasses, to your kids’ toys.

Emphasise the working triangle

A well-planned kitchen layout revolves around the concept of the working triangle, which is the relationship between the sink, cooker, and fridge. By following this rule, you can create an efficient working space, while your guests relax at the kitchen island.

Styling tips for your kitchen party space

Set the mood with pendant lighting

Set the mood for your evening in the kitchen with some ambient lighting. Pendant lighting is ideal for entertaining, as it’ll brighten your space while also doubling up as a stylish statement.

Get cosy with soft furnishings

Soft furnishings such as rugs, cushions, and throws will add warmth and comfort to your kitchen. These cosy touches invite guests to relax in your space, making them feel at home in your space.

Show off your fanciest glassware with open-front cabinets

Put your beautiful glassware and serving pieces on display with open-front cabinets or floating shelves. Not only does this create a focal point, but it also makes it easy for guests to help themselves to drinks and snacks during the party – giving you one less thing to worry about! 

Ready to bring your own at-home social hub to life with a bespoke kitchen design? When you choose Cherrywood Bespoke, we’ll ask you exactly what you want from your space, and if entertaining is a priority we will incorporate this into your design. The end result will be a room that you enjoy welcoming guests into. Take a look at our kitchen projects for some design ideas, and contact us to arrange a free home consultation or to book a visit to our Oxfordshire kitchen showroom.