How to Get the Perfect Home for entertaining and Networking
I can’t think of any better way to build business relationships than to have a phenomenal home for entertaining. In this article I’ll break down the importance of having a home built for networking, how to make a good first impression, and features you should look for.
The Importance of Having a Home for entertaining & Networking
Having a home designed for networking can greatly enhance your ability to build and maintain professional relationships. It provides opportunities for meaningful connections, and makes a strong first impression. A stylish and well-appointed home sets a positive tone, and plays a crucial role in how guests perceive you, ultimately allowing you to foster deeper and more lasting connections.
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Make a Good First Impression: Projecting Success
First impressions matter, so it’s important that you pick a building that makes a good one. You want your guests to get the impression that you’re already successful to start the negotiations off in your favor. Look at new construction buildings, apartments that have been recently renovated, and buildings that are meticulously maintained.
You want to live in a building that has the following:
Location: You want to live in a neighborhood people recognize, that’s easy to travel to, and that has clean and well maintained streets. Greenwich Village, Soho, Tribeca, Flatiron and Tribeca are good examples of prime hosting locations, as they are all easily accessible via the subway.
Design: A beautifully designed building with an immediate wow factor sets the stage for an incredible event.
Proper Amenities: A building with a doorman and an elevator gives off an air of wealth, status, respectability and exclusivity.
What You should look for
Open Floor Plans
An open kitchen/living room layout is maximally conducive for hosting. They’re spacious, open, and welcoming. This allows people to interact with others and start new conversations easily.
Avoid apartments with galley kitchens: This is a kitchen nook that’s separated from your hosting space. A good party is has a consistent accessible flow of food and beverages — and hungry and thirsty people tend to get cranky and leave early.
Arrange Your Furniture Well: People will lounge and move about as they converse, and you don’t want to create blockades in the natural social flow.
Ample Outdoors Space
Outdoors spaces are fun, unique, and provide beautiful scenic backgrounds for your event. Here in New York City, they’re also perfect for summer nights. If you plan on hosting large and exciting events, the room is bound to heat up — literally. Having an outdoor respite for guests when they get a little too warm allows people to stay comfortable, and therefor stay longer.
Here are some options to consider:
Balcony: Balconies are a great way for a few guests to step out for a moment for a quick respite or a private conversation.
Terrace: Terraces are typically larger than balconies, so more partygoers will be able to enjoy a terrace simultaneously. A terrace will usually be accessible from multiple rooms in an apartment- meaning guests can flow in an out of the outdoor space easily.
Rooftop: A private rooftop can be your party’s main gathering space on a magical NYC summer evening. Roofs can accommodate gas grills and still abide by NYC’s safety regulations. A well equipped roof will even have a wet bar and electric.
Patio/Backyard: A patio is typically ground level outdoor space. If you’re lucky, a ground level patio will lead to a backyard. Backyards are amazing places to host parties as they can be furnished with extensive amenities like gazebos, wet bars and grills.
The Right Furnishings
Choose stylish and functional furniture that balances aesthetics and comfort, and that’s tailored to your space and your aesthetic. Arrange your furniture in a way that designates zones for dining, lounging, and conversation.
Ask your realtor for a good interior designer recommendation, and then take advantage of their trade discounts with reputable furniture companies like West Elm, EQ3 and CB2.
Need Help Finding the Perfect home for entertaining?
You can download my FREE Buyer’s Guide to learn the ins and outs of making your next home purchase. In this guide you'll discover insider tips on how to:
Navigate the home buying process with confidence
Identify the perfect real estate agent for your needs
Avoid unexpected closing costs
Prioritize your ideal lifestyle by avoiding buildings with common and annoying restrictions
You can also reach out to me for one-on-one support simply by submitting the form on my contact page. I offer free consultation calls with zero obligations, and would love to learn how I can best help you find a home that fulfills your dreams.
