Party Places
I love parties so it’s natural that I’m drawn to spaces that are set up for socializing. Big or small, brunch or late-night, subdued or all-out crazy – there’s a perfect space for every type of get-together.
Of course, while I’d love to own a rambling country estate for lazy Sunday brunches, an elegant Parisian flat for sophisticated Saturday dinners and a funky New York loft for all night cocktail parties, having a house for every occasion just doesn’t fit with my budget. Fortunately, most homes are at least somewhat adaptable.
Here are a few of my favorite “party place” ideas and designs:
Of course, while I’d love to own a rambling country estate for lazy Sunday brunches, an elegant Parisian flat for sophisticated Saturday dinners and a funky New York loft for all night cocktail parties, having a house for every occasion just doesn’t fit with my budget. Fortunately, most homes are at least somewhat adaptable.
Here are a few of my favorite “party place” ideas and designs:
I absolutely love covered spaces outdoors. While my East Coast weather isn't ideal for year-round covered patio use, I dream about outdoor spaces like the ones in this desert home. For those of us in less predictable climates, an inexpensive, removable gazebo can serve some of the same function.
I'm drawn to the circus tent feel of this crazy room. While I'd like to see a little more color in the space, I love the idea of hanging drapes from the ceiling of a sunroom to minimize glare. For a party, this sort of decor could add drama to any indoor space - even a basement.
Screened in porches evoke such great summer memories - no matter how modern the design, they always feel old-fashioned and campy. This porch would be perfect for a fun indoor picnic (especially on a rainy day) or, with a little decoration, even for a fancy cocktail party.
Outdoor fireplaces are inviting and practical. They offer heat and an additional spot to cook (when the grill's overloaded), plus they're a natural gathering spot for parties. This stone fireplace required a commitment from the homeowners (a copper firepit is a less permanent way to add fire to the backyard) but I imagine those sofas are popular seating at any party.
If I could design a brand new house, I'd incorporate a courtyard like this one. Windows on three sides bring the inside out, and vice versa. It's easy to imagine this space filled with people during a fun, busy party.
This space makes the most of all the different ways to entertain by the pool. The dining table in the foreground suggests al fresco summer meals, while the living area tucked away under roof has a great view, but is just removed enough that it's cozy (plus, the roof offers protection from weather).
Open floor plans are perfect for parties. I love how this space connects the kitchen to the dining area, but each space still has it's own designated area (I might even add a rug under the dining table for additional separation). Also, the island is perfect as a buffet or bar during a party.
Picnic tables are good for so much more than backyard dining. I love this sophisticated table - it's design is clean and beautiful. Plus, a picnic bench makes it easy to squeeze in one or two last-minute guests.