A New Trend In Home Entertaining

Last week I “thought” I would be completing the final revisions of floor plans for my Brentwood project and move on to the design development phase.  But the reality is we now have a slight deviation from the original scope of the project and a tweak to the client’s wish list. And because my clients intend to live in this home for many more years to come – it’s imperative that we get it absolutely right – now during the schematic design phase!  Designing an ultimate dream home is a process or metamorphosis if you will. A project of this magnitude can at times be completely organic, as it can shrink and grow ten times over, but at the end of the day – it is transformed into a magnificent home. As a designer my primary objective is to personalize my clients’ home to fit THEIR lifestyle – by creating an environment that THEY emotionally connect with. We’re now entertaining the thought of a small addition to the second floor.  With an extra 200 square feet directly off the master bedroom suite, it will provide my clients with the added space to incorporate his and hers walk-in closets (Mrs. R’s dream) and new office space. (Meeting with the contractor next week for a budgetary assessment of this concept). On the first floor plan we’ve enlarged the kitchen and provided some additional square footage to the front of the home, which accommodates the ideal entertainer’s kitchen. To compliment this dream kitchen, we will now incorporate what appears to be a growing “must have” trend – the in home bar. Located just off the living room, this customized “club room” will be ideal for a small group of friends to gather before and after dinner – while the kids are off playing in the family room or outside on the sports court.  Think about it.  A mature space with a customized full service bar, seating and TV would be a welcome change from the family room ambience.  Sounds great – doesn’t it?

Actor Jeremy Renner’s home bar           Photo Credit: Jeff Lipsky for People Magazine

I’m not quite sure if my client fancies himself a “mixologist” or just wants to entertain like one.  Either way – by creating this trendy neighborhood watering hole and the hottest new restaurant in town, I have a feeling their friends and family will never leave. To be continued… Stay Inspired! I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2011 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.