Holiday Hosting Woes? It Might Be Time for a Kitchen Makeover

Are you looking around a cramped and dated kitchen and trying to muster the enthusiasm to host a family get-together this holiday season? We feel your pain, and we don't want you to feel it anymore. It's likely too late for the upcoming holiday season, but it's a great time to get started on your kitchen remodel for entertaining for next year. Unfortunately, many clients underestimate how long it takes to renovate a kitchen or why we can’t rush the design-build process. Homeowners who approach us in October or November to ask about the timeline for a kitchen tuneup are often disappointed to learn that their dream can’t come true until after the holidays.

When you start ahead of the season, you’ll enjoy the benefits of our careful design process, with enough time to celebrate in style. Here are a few reasons why you should consider beginning to design your kitchen remodel for entertaining as soon as possible if you want to host future holiday festivities. As seasoned design-build remodelers in South Bend and adjacent Harbor Country in Michigan, we are well-versed in styling your home remodel for any occasion and need, including the holiday season.

The Benefits Of Planning Your Kitchen Remodel As Early As Possible

Planning a kitchen remodel, especially one aimed at making your home the perfect setting for holiday entertaining, requires thoughtful consideration and ample time. Transforming your house for the holidays is more than just a few cosmetic changes—it’s about creating a space that can comfortably accommodate guests, facilitate seamless meal preparation, and reflect the festive spirit. Let's explore the benefits of giving this endeavor the time and attention it deserves.

White kitchen remodel in South Bend with subway and mosaic tile backsplash and island

Secure Your Top Choice Partner

Finding a contractor who does work just the way you want is complicated enough. Trying to locate one who isn’t busy right before the holidays is ten times harder. Some people start searching for a remodeling company a year or more before their project should start, just so they can secure their timeline. The best businesses will be the fastest to fill up, and you definitely want one of the best. Your kitchen deserves a contractor’s careful attention. Start early enough that you can be a priority.

No Rush Before the Holidays

The holidays have their own schedule, and we all know the lead-up can be pretty hectic. The last thing you want is to spend the last few weeks before your big event sweating the details. Don't keep yourself up with needless worries.

  • Will the specialty materials arrive on time?
  • What if there’s a delay?
  • How will I balance the renovation with all these other activities I have going on?

Start early so you can relax with the assurance that you have plenty of time to get ready.

Time to Perfect the Design

The best kitchen layout for entertaining doesn't just happen. The perfect personalized design takes time to distill. Like any piece of artwork, you can expect that there will be a few changes from the first draft to the final product. You need plenty of time to contemplate the design and be absolutely sure that everything will look how you expect before signing off on it. Your designers also need time to refine. If you have ever wished you took more time to be sure about a big decision, you know that this time is crucial.

Craftsman style green kitchen remodel in South Bend, IN by Peacock & Company

Remodeling Your Kitchen with Entertainment in Mind

Designing a perfect kitchen for holiday entertaining is all about creating a functional and inviting space. Remodeling your kitchen holiday style means thinking ahead about how you want to use the space when hosting gatherings, large or small.

A kitchen for entertaining should be designed with several key features in mind.

Open Layout

An open floor plan that connects the kitchen to the living or dining area is ideal for hosting, as it allows you to stay engaged with your guests while preparing meals. Removing walls or adding a pass-through can dramatically improve the flow of the space.

Open-concept kitchen remodel with L-Shaped island in South Bend, IN by Peacock and Company

Ample Counter Space

Whether you’re setting out appetizers or mixing up holiday cocktails, having plenty of counter space is essential. To increase the surface area, consider adding an island or a breakfast bar.

Smart Storage

Hosting often requires more serving dishes, cookware, and utensils than everyday cooking. Custom cabinetry or a walk-in pantry can help keep everything organized and within easy reach.

Custom pull-out cabinets in South Bend, Indiana kitchen remodel by Peacock and Company

Efficient Appliances

Double ovens, a large refrigerator, and a powerful range can make cooking for a crowd much easier. Dual dishwashers allow for convenient and phased cleanup. Modern appliances with smart technology can also streamline your workflow.

Stainless steel beverage fridge with built-in wine bottle shelving

Comfortable Seating

An inviting kitchen should offer plenty of seating options for guests to relax while you cook. Built-in benches, bar stools, or an extended island can provide casual seating that encourages conversation. Incorporate various seating options to make your kitchen a true gathering place.

Efficient Lighting

Good lighting is key to creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Consider a combination of task lighting for food preparation and ambient lighting to set the mood for your gatherings.

Task lighting in front of blue subway tile backsplash in South Bend, IN kitchen remodel by Peacock and Company

Holiday kitchen Remodeling FAQs

Do contractors work on holidays?

One of homeowners' most common concerns when planning a holiday remodel is whether contractors are available to work during the busy holiday season. The short answer is that it depends on the contractor and the specifics of your project. However, most reputable contractors like us prefer to avoid scheduling work during major holidays to allow our clients and our teams to enjoy the season.

Construction holidays are a real consideration when planning your project timeline. Many contractors take time off around Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's, which can impact the availability of labor and the timing of material deliveries. This is another reason why starting your remodel early is so important. By scheduling your project to be completed before the holiday season, you avoid the stress of potential delays and can focus on enjoying your newly remodeled space.

How long does it take to remodel a kitchen for the holidays?

A kitchen remodel typically takes several months from planning to completion. The exact timeline depends on the scope of the project, the availability of materials, and the complexity of the design. It’s important to start planning as early as possible—ideally, several months to a year before the holiday season—to ensure everything is ready in time.

What features should I include in a kitchen remodel for large gatherings?

Consider incorporating features like a spacious layout, double ovens, a large refrigerator, ample counter space, and multiple seating areas for large gatherings. A walk-in pantry and/or butler's pantry can also be beneficial for storing bulk ingredients and serving ware.

Create the Perfect Space for Holiday Gatherings

Early planning and clear communication with your design and build team are best for your dream entertaining kitchen remodel. We’re here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today to start planning your dream kitchen, and get ready to impress your guests at every holiday celebration.

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