Now we’re well into spring, and the forecast is finally (hopefully) getting brighter, more family gatherings are filling up our social calendars. When designing a luxury kitchen room that is both welcoming and easy-breezy on the cooking front, functionality, safety, and visual warmth take centre stage. With a focus on family-friendly entertaining, Roundhouse designers reveal how to create the perfect luxury kitchen design for hosting spring events. Let the fun begin.

Focus on layout

An efficient layout is key when it comes to family-friendly kitchens, especially during spring gatherings where multiple tasks will be happening at once – and there’ll be children everywhere you turn. A well-designed kitchen layout facilitates seamless movement between task areas and encourages social interaction. Our bespoke kitchen designers always consider the viewpoints through the space when planning a family-friendly kitchen. When entertaining it’s essential to establish clear sightlines between those cooking and those at the dining table, breakfast bar and out into the garden.

One of the best ways to keep children involved but away from danger is to incorporate a kitchen island unit or peninsula, which will act as a natural barrier to the ovens, sink and prep areas. With ample seating, an island will form a central hub for food preparation/serving and socialising.

Encourage young chefs

Spring gatherings are a great opportunity to get your little ones lending a hand in the kitchen. Including child-friendly features, like lower worktops and designated baking areas, will help ensure their safety and encourage enthusiasm for culinary activities. Planning a layout that supports more than one cook is also a great way to future-proof your kitchen and keep children helping at mealtimes as they grow-up. Aim to create two prep areas, with an extra prep-sink at one end of an island, to avoid falling over each other as you work. If you are considering a hob in your island, an induction model, which heats the pans not the hob surface is the safest option.

Bulk up on storage

With spring entertaining, or any entertaining for that matter, comes an influx of fresh produce, tableware, and seasonal décor. Sufficient storage is essential to keep clutter at bay and maintain a clean, organised space. So, when planning a new bespoke kitchen, it’s wise to think beyond everyday storage provisions if you regularly entertain.

A walk-in larder with open shelving is ideal for stashing bulk buys and family-size supplies.

Consider installing an extra fridge that can be put into use as and when required. A generous wine fridge can also be used to keep soft drinks and milk chilled. Multi-functional kitchen pantry cabinets with adjustable shelves, pull-out drawers, and built-in organisers will also help maximize storage capacity. Designate specific storage zones for tableware, linens and décor within easy reach of the dining area.

Take it outside

We’re firmly optimistic that the spring sunshine WILL come, but even if it doesn’t, seamlessly connecting your indoor kitchen to outdoor entertaining spaces is never a bad idea. A well-designed patio adjacent to the kitchen allows for effortless transition between indoor and outdoor dining areas. Choose the same flooring inside and out and fit sliding or bi-folding glass doors to promote a seamless flow. Outdoor kitchens or grilling areas further enhance the experience, offering additional cooking options and opportunities for al fresco entertaining.

Durable surfaces

There’s nothing relaxing about spring entertaining if you’re stressing over potential spills, scratches and stains. Opt for durable worktops and flooring materials that can easily withstand frequent use and spills and still result in a fabulous luxury high-end kitchen design. For extreme heat resistance and resilience, we recommend Caesarstone’s porcelain worktops and for hygiene, the seamless application of White + Reid’s concrete surfaces are perfect for avoiding bacteria attracting joints. On floors, avoid porous materials like natural stones and timber, that are more prone to staining and require regular resealing and maintenance, especially when hosting guests frequently. Polished concrete or large-format porcelain tiles are both practical options underfoot.

What are the most family-friendly kitchen cabinets?

On cabinet doors, a spray-lacquered paint finish, built up in layers, is a strong choice that will prove resilient and easy to keep clean. Made in our own Malvern-based workshops, we pay close attention to durability and strength to ensure our cabinets easily withstand busy family life. In fact, Roundhouse bespoke furniture is guaranteed against manufacturing defects for a period of 5 years from installation and we will make good, replace or repair any defective or faulty items free of charge during that 5 year period.

Our expert kitchen designers can help you make the best choices for your Roundhouse bespoke kitchen, furniture or wardrobes. Visit any of our seven Roundhouse showrooms; Wigmore St, Clapham, Fulham, Richmond, Cambridge, Guildford & Cheltenham and get planning!