Condos feature everything for entertaining needs.

As luxury condominiums have evolved over the years, so has the entertaining possibilities at your home.

The numerous amenities, community rooms, concierge service or simply the updated floor plans of a condo provide residents options to embrace entertaining both large and small gatherings.

Paige Martin, broker associate and team lead, Houston Properties Team, Keller Williams, said condo homeowners who want to entertain are being drawn to some of the features and amenities in Houston’s condo buildings.

“Notable requests include high ceilings, open and modern kitchens, and floor-to-ceiling windows over a large section of the living area,” Martin said.

Kitchen designs have changed over the years, according to Martin.

“In the 1970s and 1980s, kitchens were typically smaller in size, housed fewer amenities, and were separated from the living and dining rooms,” Martin said. “In many modern designs, kitchens have become the centerpiece of the living and entertaining area.”

The appliances have also changed to match the kitchen design. Today, stoves and appliances are often selected for their beauty and not just their functionality. The design comes into play to providing a welcoming environment for any setting.

“Large countertops and kitchen islands are featured prominently. Kitchens often boast sweeping views of floor-to-ceiling windows and the landscape beyond,” said Martin.

Open-concept floor plans also lend themselves to home entertaining. Martin said that units sold from buildings built since 2013, including Chateau Ten, Astoria, Belfiore, Arabella, The Wilshire, The Marlowe, and The River Oaks, have an average square footage of 3,436. The big difference now is with layout.

“Newer floor plans are more open. They highlight kitchens as part of the layout, have larger master bedrooms and baths, and feature more closet space,” Martin said.

If you don’t feel like hosting an event in your home, the condo building has that covered.

Highland Towers hosts an estimated 25 events a year for its residents, with two amenity rooms used on a daily basis as well as a wine room. At The Southmore in the Museum District, small gatherings are a possibility with its sports lounge complete with a poker table and shuffleboard. Many of the newer high-rises also offer open space, usually centered around a pool, for their residents.

“Of the $1M-plus luxury market, nearly without exception, all high-rises typically feature one or more party rooms and/or lounge areas. These rooms and venues can usually be reserved and rented out by guests for a deposit and cleaning fee,” said Martin.

Residents can take advantage of the professional management staff available to assist if hosting an event, including porters, and maintenance and/or cleaning crews. Over half of Houston luxury buildings also provide valet service. Catered food from outside sources can also be accommodated.

“Most of the buildings do not offer direct catering. They do make it easy for local restaurants and/or catering companies to have access to residents and party rooms,” Martin said.

For more information, go to www.houstonproperties.com/houston-condos.

Courtesy of 2727kirby.com The spacious ballroom at 2727 Kirby is perfect for large gatherings.

Courtesy of TK Images 2727 Kirby, like many area condo buildings, meets residents’ needs for entertaining family and friends.

Courtesy of 2727kirby.com Kitchens often boast sweeping views of floor-to-ceiling windows and the landscape beyond, and floor plans are open concept.

Courtesy of Finger Properties This One Park Place kitchen offers gorgeous views.

Courtesy of Finger Properties Entertaining around a pool area with stunning views can be done at One Park Place.