The perfect kitchen for entertaining

Kitchen island for socializing

Centered on a sociable semicircular island, this kitchen has plenty of space for multiple chefs to work while guests sip and chat.

Custom drink station

The custom beverage center keeps glasses, wine and cocktail fixings within easy reach. Open shelves and mirrored backs add interest. Two undercounter GE Monogram wine refrigerators each keep up to 57 bottles at preferred temperatures.

Pantry

Shimmering backsplash tiles and a stainless sink coordinate with those in the kitchen, while a bamboo countertop gives this nook its own eco-friendly flair.

Layout

The design encourages movement among the kitchen, the living area and the deck. Behind the sofa, a 42-inch-high cabinet offers storage for table linens and a glass surface.

Neat nook

A window seat provides a comfortable spot to catch up on reading, plan meals or just relax and enjoy the backyard view.

The flow

The low-slung midcentury-style furniture from Room & Board adds comfort and a lounge look. To punch up the room’s neutral palette and connect it to the outdoors, the wall is painted a soft moss green.

Cabinets

For the cabinets, readers chose cherry stain with 49% of the vote, over warm white paint (34%) and blue-gray stain (17%).

Backsplash

For the backsplash, readers chose misty glass tiles with 46% of the vote, over quartz surfacing in off-white (28%) and recycled aluminum tile (26%).

Island paint color

Benjamin Moore's Rock Gray won out for the kitchen island's paint color with 49% of the vote, over green (34%) and blue (17%).