Creating Inspiring Gathering Spaces

As the holidays approach, many of us find ourselves looking to create the perfect gathering space.  In this post, we explore different rooms in the home and highlight essential design elements that make them comfortable places to entertain.

The Living Room

For the living room, we love using custom-configured sectionals.  Keeping the Halandale sectional in a neutral tone keeps the space feeling fresh, while its configuration offers open seating perfect for conversation.  It also allows guests to move freely around the room.

Employing a generously scaled cocktail table provides a common place for guests to rest drinks and for hosts to display favorite accessories.  We are particularly fond of the Stone Canyon cocktail table.  The table features a hand-burnished silver leaf metal base and silver travertine top, which ties-in the neutral hues of the room.

Incorporating a pair of ottomans and two accent chairs allows the space to be easily reconfigured to suit the number of guests and activities at hand.  One of our favorite products is the Wheatley Leather Ottoman.    Contrasting welts and decorative nailhead trim give the piece flair, while its casters make it effortless to maneuver.

Finally, we believe that every gathering space should have at least one statement piece.  One we love is the Cross Creek accent table, which features a petrified wood top supported by a hand-burnished, silver leaf metal base.  Since it is a natural material, each table is truly one-of-a-kind.

The Kitchen

Often the heart of the home, the kitchen is a natural gathering place, especially when preparing a holiday meal. Incorporating a large island workspace and pairing with counter stools allows the chef to engage with her guests while cooking.

We particularly like the Merrick counter stools, which feature hand-woven rush seats and a lightly distressed, versatile Oyster finish.  The swivel mechanism and shaped metal back support make it as functional as it is beautiful.

As a bonus, the counter stools pair well with a bistro table, which can serve as an additional seating area if needed.  One of our favorite bistro tables is Hidden Lake from the Oyster Bay collection.  Its burnished stainless top ensures a durable surface, while its four drawers make it highly functional.  The table can accommodate up to six counter stools.