Thanksgiving is a time for family and friends to gather around the table and enjoy a delicious meal. The kitchen is often the heart of the home during this holiday, so it's important to have a space that is both functional and inviting. While it is too late to overhaul your kitchen for this year, now is the perfect time to start planning for next year. 

Here are some tips for creating a kitchen that is perfect for hosting:

1. Choose an open layout

An open kitchen layout will make your space feel larger and more inviting. It will also make it easier for you to move around and interact with your guests while you're cooking. We typically like to adjust or remove walls to create that larger feeling space, but if you don’t have rooms to expand into, you are not out of luck. Our design team has come up with some very clever ways to create a new footprint without expanding the square footage. 

2. Maximize countertop space

Countertop space is essential for any kitchen, but it's especially important when you're hosting a large gathering. You'll need enough space to prepare food, set out serving dishes, and chop vegetables. Depending on your layout, you may also consider adding a peninsula or even a wet bar to serve as an additional place to serve food and beverages.

3. Invest in high-quality appliances and a large sink

High-quality appliances will make it easier for you to cook for a crowd. Consider investing in a double oven, a large refrigerator, and a dishwasher with plenty of capacity. A large sink is essential for washing dishes and hands, especially after a large gathering. It's also a good idea to have a separate sink for food prep.

4. Create a designated eating area

If you have the space, create a designated eating area in your kitchen. This could be a breakfast nook, a banquette, or a large island with bar stools. 

5. Add plenty of storage

You'll need plenty of storage to keep your kitchen organized, especially when you're hosting a large gathering. Working with cabinetry specialists like those at Braemar Cabinetry will help you optimize your kitchen storage through custom and semi-custom cabinetry solutions. The storage solutions and inserts available today will give you a designated space for every item in your kitchen. 

6. Add a touch of ambiance with lighting

Lighting can make your kitchen feel more inviting and create a festive atmosphere. Use a combination of overhead lighting, task lighting, and accent lighting to create the desired effect. Lighting can be updated quickly and on a budget and is one of those design features that can really impact how a kitchen looks and feels. Fellow Stylebook contributor Alexandria Lighting + Design is a great place to turn for all your lighting needs. 

Remember, the most important thing is to create a kitchen that you love and that works well for your needs and lifestyle every day of the year. With the help of an experienced design-build firm like Marks-Woods Construction, you’re home (and kitchen!) will be THE place to celebrate Thanksgiving!