Kitchens double as party hot spots
Since prehistoric times, the hearth of a dwelling has been the most important feature in the home. Fire produced warmth for cold climates and also heat so food could be prepared. Although much has evolved from cave to home, not much has changed in the role kitchens play as the heart of a home. What more could one ask for? Well, the answer, in the kitchen arena, is quite a lot. Innovations in equipment and technology have immensely expanded the market.
In surveys, a good number of guests state the best part of a party is your time spent with friends in the kitchen. Developers, architects and interior designers have realized this sociocultural phenomenon, and the latest trend in home design is the living kitchen. Kitchen design has taken a leap in condos and single-family homes, and now they are not just for cooking and eating, but socializing, as well.
Kitchen equipment has gone slim-line and high-tech, incorporating flat-screen TVs on the front of refrigerators and "smart" equipment that can be preprogrammed and remote-controlled via smartphones. In addition, the variety of cooking equipment has never been better - from warming drawers and built-in coffee makers to steam drawers and teppanyaki cooking surfaces. Popcorn machines and wood-burning pizza ovens are all the rage.
Trends include custom-colored kitchen equipment, geometric patterned backsplashes and darker colored, even black cabinetry. Of course, some of these innovations have evolved to accommodate kitchens that double as living rooms and dining rooms.
Architecturally, homeowners are requesting built-in features such as window seats, banquette restaurant-style dining, and bar-height tables and counters. It is also not unusual to find enough space in kitchens to fit a sofa or two for lounging with family and friends. In homes, we have seen the great room concept take flight, and in newer condominiums, which are smaller, developers are forgoing the dining room altogether in favor of a dining counter and open kitchen for entertaining.
As we continue to see the American home evolve, it is evident homeowners want less formal environments and comfort above all. Designing your kitchen around parties might not sound, well, very sound. But the next time you attend a party, if possible, peek into the kitchen - without a doubt, you will find a group hovering around food and drink. Although this might seem unusual, that party within a party will live in your memories and your heart. Isn't that what we all strive for?
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