Tis the season for holiday entertaining. And with most of keeping our circle small and celebrating at home, Bella Custom Homes is here with a few ideas to make our spaces merry and bright. Read on for how to zhuzh up your kitchens, living rooms, and outdoor spaces for the new year ahead, plus a few clever gift ideas too!
Gourmet Kitchens For Baking, Entertaining, and Catering Are Trending
First, we center on the heart of the home, the gourmet kitchen. This area of the house often does double duty, which is precisely why Bella Custom Homes Vice President and Lead Interior Designer Stacy Brotemarkle recommends people consider the catering kitchen concept.
She tells us, “The catering kitchen is perfect for this time of year. Homeowners are able to keep the mess hidden from guests while allowing the main kitchen to stay in picture-perfect order.”
“Additionally, double islands are great for entertaining and serving too. We are seeing the double island trend in many of our kitchens right now. People love having more prep space, as well as extra room to serve hors d’oeuvres at cocktail hour or spread out when working on school projects with the kids.”
Pocket Doors Are The Key To Indoor-Outdoor Entertaining
Let’s talk indoor-outdoor entertaining. This is something everyone in Texas knows all too well. When the weather is just right, we all want to be outside. And come rain or shine, we never pass up the opportunity to throw a good barbecue or invite the whole clan over for an impromptu party. But what really makes indoor-outdoor spaces sing?
Sliding pocket doors, says Tony Visconti, Bella Custom Homes Founder and Certified Graduate Master Builder. In fact, pocket doors are one of the most requested features in many of their new build projects and remodels.
Large, glass pocket doors help bring the outside in and create an ideal flow between indoor and outdoor living areas. These areas are then adorned with fireplaces, heaters, and firepits for enjoying the cool evenings.
“Now more than ever people want to maximize every inch of space they have at home,” says Visconti. “And this translates to the outdoors. These spaces are becoming extended living areas that are both luxurious and inviting. And they can be easily accessed and combined with pocket doors. The key is to create comfortable, connected, and flexible spaces that people can enjoy throughout the seasons.”
Great Rooms That Make Life Easier Are On Everyone’s Wish List
Of course, great rooms that are grand — not bland — are another request. “Homeowners want open concept living areas that flow from the kitchen to the eating area to the lounging area, which is a popular spot for those who nap after a big holiday feast,” chuckles Brotemarkle.
Bella Custom Homes accomplishes this by mapping out how the spaces will be used. Then they add in features like soaring ceilings, eye-catching built-ins, and ample windows to set the scene.
Dramatic Dining Areas With Wet Bars And Wine Rooms Take Hosting Up A Notch
Speaking of setting the scene, dining rooms with a little drama are making a comeback! That’s right, making memories around the dinner table is a snooze-fest no longer. In fact, Brotemarkle tells us that elegant dining spaces with wet bars and easy access to wine rooms are at the top of everyone’s wish list.
“We love adding a little drama to the dining room with design. But that is taken up a notch when it leads to a secret wine room for tastings or is highlighted by a dramatic wet bar for easy entertaining,” she shares.
Five Star Guest Retreats With Verandas and Spa Baths Are Sure To Impress
And let’s not forget that the key to a happy house at the holidays is having plenty of room for guests.
“Large guest rooms with sitting areas, generous baths, even private verandas or courtyards for enjoying morning coffee are becoming popular additions,” says Visconti.
But When All Else Fails, Give Them The Gift They Really Want
Lastly, if you are at a loss on what to get that special someone who has everything this holiday season, it’s time to think outside the box. Perhaps the perfect gift for your spouse or family is a new home in 2021?
“There has never been a better time to embark on a fresh start and build from the ground up,” says Brotemarkle. “We have also seen customers gift their loved ones a brand new dream kitchen, a closet makeover, or even that private guest house they have always wanted. The sky is the limit! We are always so honored to bring our clients’ vision to life and make their homebuilding dreams come true.”
For more information on building one-of-a-kind spaces visit bellacustomhomes.com.
