Updated on September 10, 2024

The holiday season is almost here, bringing Christmas parties, family gatherings, and festive soirees. As the host, you know that most of your guests will likely gravitate to your kitchen. But if your outdated, cramped kitchen has you dreading holiday hosting duties again this year, it might be time to consider a remodel.

To help you get started, our Toulmin Kitchen and Bath design team has put together some tips to help you start planning your new kitchen, especially if you’re dreaming of creating the perfect holiday entertaining space.

Kitchen Design Tip #1
Create an Open Kitchen Floor Plan for Comfortable Gatherings

Raise your hand if you enjoy squeezing your entire family into a tight space. No takers? We didn’t think so.

When planning your kitchen remodel, prioritize designing a space that caters to your family’s needs—holiday gatherings included. A well-thought-out open floor plan that connects your kitchen, dining, and living areas into one spacious layout is ideal. This design allows everyone to gather comfortably and enjoy the holiday festivities together.

Kitchen Design Tip #2
Ample Countertops are Essential for Holiday Cooking 

Holiday dinner preparations are far more enjoyable when your kitchen is designed with plenty of space for food prep. Whether you’re chopping, mixing, plating, or serving, a well-designed kitchen with generous countertop areas and a striking kitchen island can make all the difference. Remember, an experienced kitchen designer can help you incorporate the space and every kitchen design detail needed to handle cooking and entertaining tasks with ease.

Kitchen Design Tip #3
Integrate Creative and Functional Storage Solutions

Incorporating creative storage solutions into your custom cabinetry can keep your kitchen tidy and organized year-round by eliminating countertop clutter. Smartly designed cabinets and storage options also reduce the stress of preparing for large holiday gatherings or dinner parties.

• When designing your custom cabinets, consider asking your design + build team to include these storage options:

• Back-of-the-island storage for platters and serving pieces reserved for hosting

• Spice pullouts next to the range for easy access while cooking

• A walk-in pantry, butler’s pantry, or pantry cabinet for ample storage

• A double pull-out trash cabinet for easier clean-up

• An appliance lift for your mixer or other heavy appliances that usually take up counter space
  

Kitchen Design Tip #4:
Don’t Underestimate the Power of a Beverage Station with a Refrigerator

Hear us out–never underestimate the value of a beverage station in your home. Designating a space in your kitchen for beverages (especially one with a refrigerator) may not be something you’ve ever considered a necessity. However, a beverage area is truly a must-have you didn’t know you needed until now…especially if you entertain often. 

Love a good, themed cocktail or mocktail? We do, too! A beverage bar is an excellent way to entertain guests (we love a self-serve station!). It also keeps the traffic flowing seamlessly through your kitchen when you have many guests inside your home. A bar area is also the perfect place to showcase your taste! Bright-colored cabinets, abstract wallpaper, and unique tile can be used to incorporate fun elements into this unique space in your home. 

Kitchen Design Tip #5
Must-Have Appliances and Features for the Entertainer

When renovating your kitchen, it’s crucial to consider how appliances, plumbing fixtures, and other features will enhance your daily life. But if you frequently host large holiday gatherings, it’s equally important to think about how these features can make serving food and beverages easier.

Certain appliances and features can instantly elevate your kitchen into an ideal space for entertaining.

Here are some top picks on our wish list:

• Double oven range or double wall oven for added cooking convenience

• Warming drawer to keep dishes warm until it’s time to serve

• Workstation sink to separate food prep from dishwashing areas

• Pot filler to conveniently fill large pots directly on the stove

• Deep kitchen sink for easily washing large pots, pans, and serving dishes

While you might not have your new kitchen ready by this Christmas (unless you’re on one of those TV shows with unrealistic renovation timelines!), it’s never too early to start planning your dream kitchen.

Ready to Transform Your Kitchen? Let's Get Started!

Whether you’re planning a complete kitchen remodel or just looking to make a few upgrades, Toulmin Kitchen & Bath is here to help you create the perfect space for entertaining and everyday living. Our expert team will work with you to design a kitchen that’s not only functional but also reflects your unique style and needs.

Don’t wait until the next holiday season to start enjoying your dream kitchen. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward transforming your space.

Schedule an appointment online to visit our kitchen design showroom in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

We can’t wait to start designing your dream kitchen!