It’s said that he kitchen is the heart of the home, and that sentiment rings even truer around the holidays. Families spend so much time in the kitchen this time of year that it becomes the area of your home where memories are made. Instead of becoming frustrated with lack-of-space or less-than-optimal cooking conditions, so many of our clients have chosen to build their dream home and gift themselves their perfect kitchen.

When building a custom home, you have the opportunity to construct each room to meet your specific needs. Here are some favorite kitchen upgrades that are especially useful during the holiday season:

Double Ovens

It goes without saying that double ovens become a must-have in the midst of Thanksgiving preparations. With two ovens, it’s also easy to whip up multiple batches of gingerbread for your cookie exchange. However, double ovens aren’t just useful this time of year. Enjoy them year-round and allow yourself the luxury of cooking dinner and dessert all at once. With extra baking space and the ability to set each one at a different temperature, it makes cooking for your family and guests a breeze.

Dual Dish Washers

While many people consider adding in an extra oven, few think about making space for an extra dish washer. But, it can make all the difference when it comes to clean-up. Around the holidays, you can assign one for heavy-duty jobs with pots and pans while the other can gently wash your fine china. If you enjoy entertaining or have a house full of kids and their friends, an extra dish washer can save you time and keep your sink clear of clutter.

Center Island/ Extra Counter Space

With holiday baking and platters of side dishes, you’ll need space to work and put your food before it’s served. A center island is the perfect way to give you the extra space you need and give your kitchen that “WOW” factor. Consider making your center island a statement piece with a high-quality stone countertop. Adding bar stools gives your island extra functionality. It can be used as another eating area for kids at breakfast, grazing guests, or a welcome seat for cherished kitchen chats.

Walk-in Pantry

A walk-in pantry is one of those coveted kitchen must-haves any time of the year. It gives you extra space to store baking goods, cans, or even your large holiday serving platters. And, it’s always nice to know exactly where something is when you’re looking for it in the kitchen. If you want to make your pantry even more luxurious, consider adding a few shallow drawers to store table linens or chargers.

Induction Cook top

New to America, but very popular in Europe, induction cook tops are beginning to win-over many home owners. They have several benefits including a much faster heating and cook-time than a traditional gas or electric stove-top. Plus, they are very energy efficient. When you’re in the midst of big holiday meals, it’s nice to know you won’t have to wait as long for your water to boil. And added bonus? They’re much safer for your home, preventing fewer fires and burns to curious little hands.