If you’ve ever hosted a gathering – be it large or small – you know that the entertainment factor of your environment is key to a successful evening. As we head into October, there’s no shortage of holiday events ahead of us, so now more than ever, entertaining is top of mind.

To help you make your home as welcoming as possible, we’ve pulled together some of our favorite entertaining must haves. Incorporate these into your space and you’re bound to impress your guests so much that they may never want to leave.

Make the Fireplace Your Centerpiece

As the temperature drops down into those fall and winter digits, there’s nothing quite as cozy or inviting as a roaring fire. Yet, while traditional fireplaces situated on an exterior wall are lovely, there’s something even more alluring about a fireplace that serves as the centerpiece of the home. Visible from all sides, a contemporary fireplace like this one instantly brings people together and makes mingling as easy as can be.

Incorporate Plenty of Seating

A celebration without seating for everyone makes for an often uncomfortable vibe, with guests politely trying to offer one another their chairs. Avoiding this situation, however, is straightforward: simply build in plenty of seating options. From chairs or stools that are flexible and easy to move around to built-in window seats that make a stunning architectural statement, you’ll guarantee that there’s no shortage of space for people to gather.

Create a Luxurious Dining Experience

To give your guests the most memorable experience around the dining table, comfort is essential. The last thing you want is for people to be antsy to get up and move around because their chairs are too hard or rigid (especially if you’re in the middle of a great conversation). Instead, put luxury at the forefront of your design. The more plush your chairs are, the more likely you’ll be able to sink into them and enjoy course after course with nothing but contentment.

Break Down Kitchen Barriers

It’s often said that the life of a home is in the kitchen, yet too often it’s a space that is blocked off from guests’ eyes. The process of preparing a meal, though, is a social one, and it’s absolutely worth inviting guests into the full experience. To do this in a way that is both stylish and functional, take a cue from this gorgeous condo we designed – by adding a spacious countertop and barstools right in front of the range, the process of cooking instantly became inclusive, bringing guests and hosts together for the entire night.

Prioritize Socialization

Socialization is, of course, the heart of any gathering, so it makes perfect sense that you’d want to prioritize it in your design. Look to unique spaces like game rooms or lounges for ways to incorporate this naturally. By collectively playing a game of chess or shooting a round of pool, it’s a great way for everyone to relax and truly enjoy themselves.

So, as you prepare to host your next party and are busy finalizing every detail of your menu and cocktail offerings, be sure to also consider how best to use your space. With a little creativity and foresight, you’re sure to create an overall experience people won’t forget.