As the holiday season draws near, your home becomes more than just a place to live—it becomes the backdrop for celebration, comfort, and connection. Whether you’re hosting friends for a festive dinner or creating quiet, cozy moments with family, now is the perfect time to get your home holiday-ready. With just a few strategic updates, you can ensure your space feels as warm and welcoming as the season itself.
Start with the Heart of the Home: The Kitchen
Holiday hosting often centers around food and gathering, making the kitchen a natural focal point. Ask yourself: Does your kitchen work for your lifestyle, or does it get in the way?
Many of our clients come to us with outdated or cramped kitchen layouts. In one recent Leawood project, we transformed a dark, closed-off kitchen into a bright and open space by removing a dividing wall, adding an expansive island with a marble countertop, and incorporating modern lighting. The result was a space that not only functioned better, but felt joyful and inviting—just in time for holiday celebrations.
Consider updates like:
- Adding or expanding a kitchen island for food prep and casual seating
- Upgrading to stainless steel appliances to improve efficiency and style
- Incorporating under-cabinet lighting or pendant fixtures for warmth and visibility
Installing open shelving or glass-front cabinets for showcasing seasonal decor
Make an Entrance (Literally)
First impressions matter—especially during the holidays. Your entryway sets the tone for the entire home, so it’s worth spending time making it both functional and beautiful.
Simple updates like new lighting, fresh paint, or a bold statement rug can make a big difference. We’ve seen how thoughtful millwork, trim, and updated hardware can completely change the vibe of a foyer or mudroom, welcoming guests with charm before they even hang up their coats.
Refresh Common Areas for Maximum Impact
The living room, dining room, and hallways are high-traffic zones during the holidays. You want these areas to feel polished and pulled together.
Consider:
- Repainting walls or accenting with new trim or molding
- Replacing outdated light fixtures with modern, dimmable options
- Updating flooring—whether with new hardwoods, luxury vinyl, or patterned tile—to instantly elevate the entire space
One recent home update included custom ceiling beams and recessed lighting throughout the living and dining areas, creating depth, elegance, and brightness where it once felt flat and dated.
Design with Both Comfort and Celebration in Mind
Preparing your home for the holidays isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about making your space work for the way you live. Need a better flow between the kitchen and dining area? Think about removing walls or opening up sightlines. Want more seating for guests? Consider built-in banquettes, updated breakfast bars, or rethinking your furniture layout.
Let Your Home Be Part of the Celebration
A few strategic upgrades now can save stress later and turn your home into a place that truly shines this season. Whether it’s the sparkle of new lighting, the glow of a fresh backsplash, or the ease of hosting with a more functional layout, your home should be ready to welcome and wow.
If you’re inspired to make a change, we’re here to help bring your vision to life—so your home is ready for every memory the season brings.
