The At-Home Water Cooler: Creating Gathering Spots
We hear a lot about the workplace water cooler, that theoretical spot where people gather to talk about what was on HBO last night, or current events, or the Real Housewives.
These spots usually provide a combination of form and function. They're next to a coffee maker or an actual water cooler, where people can go to get something. Plus, they need to be at least a little bit private, so the chatters won't get in the way of people who like to actually work at work.
Something similar - though not exactly the same - happens in the home. While function isn't quite as necessary (no need to make up an excuse to get away from your desk at home), gathering spots develop in any home. This can happen organically - all of a sudden we realize we all hang out in one corner of the living room - or on purpose.
At my house, when we redesigned our kitchen, the architect designed a long, thin island inspired by the bars in Irish pubs. With our iPod at one end, it's become the center of every party we have.
These photos offer a few more ideas for creating gathering spots at home:
These spots usually provide a combination of form and function. They're next to a coffee maker or an actual water cooler, where people can go to get something. Plus, they need to be at least a little bit private, so the chatters won't get in the way of people who like to actually work at work.
Something similar - though not exactly the same - happens in the home. While function isn't quite as necessary (no need to make up an excuse to get away from your desk at home), gathering spots develop in any home. This can happen organically - all of a sudden we realize we all hang out in one corner of the living room - or on purpose.
At my house, when we redesigned our kitchen, the architect designed a long, thin island inspired by the bars in Irish pubs. With our iPod at one end, it's become the center of every party we have.
These photos offer a few more ideas for creating gathering spots at home:
Everybody always ends up hanging out in the kitchen, right? I like that this open space leaves enough room for cooking, plus two distinct seating areas, so there's room for several conversations.
This kitchen table - long a favorite of mine - has a "family gathering" feel that's really appealing.
This sitting area is tightly arranged and offers the perfect amount of space for a lively group of four.
Porches are a fantastic gathering spot - especially when you're on vacation. This one even includes a swing, which is a gathering spot in itself.
This little scene shows off the perfect temporary, seasonal gathering spot. It's simple, but very inviting.
I love that this sleeping porch works for daytime, too. It's a good gathering spot late at night, early in the morning, and all day long.
No, we don't usually hang out in the closet. But I like that this one offers the option of gathering - and I actually can imagine spending some time there.
Last, but certainly not least, could it be any more natural to gather around a bar?