A beverage center with glassware, wine cooler, refrigerated drawers and coffee maker makes parties a breeze.

In our last post, “What’s New in the Kitchen, Part 1,” we gave you innovative kitchen cabinet organization tips. So for Part 2 we want to focus on new gadgets for your kitchen. Here are 10 of Tracy Lynn Studio’s designer and client favorite kitchen addition ideas.

• The kitchen work station. Sure, the kitchen is for preparing food — but it’s also the hub of most homes. So why not build in a mini desk area where you can check email, research recipes (or order carry out!), charge your smartphone and pay bills while still keeping an eye on dinner and the kids.

• Island sinks. Since we tend to prepare food at the kitchen island, it makes sense to have a second sink there to rinse produce or wash hands.

• Pull-out island. Don’t have enough space for a large island in your kitchen? You can hide a pull-out extension under your smaller island’s counter to roll out only when you need it.

Add an end cabinet to create a hidden home office in your kitchen.

• Multiple counter types. Depending on how you use your kitchen, including a marble-topped area for rolling pastry or a butcher block section for chopping can be a functional enhancement.

• Beverage storage. Wine coolers and an area with cocktail supplies for adults plus kid-friendly refrigerator drawers make drinks more accessible for the whole family.

• Coffee bars. These beauties allow java lovers to skip Starbucks. Built-in units turn anyone into a barista, whether you like simple black coffee or frothy concoctions. Bonus: Your guests can help themselves!

• Microwave drawers. We’ve posted about these before but we just can’t emphasize enough how handy and less obtrusive these are that traditional stand-alone microwave ovens. Instead of bending or standing on your tiptoes, anyone from a child to an elderly adult can easily reach in the microwave drawer without risking spills or drops.

Family pets can be part of the kitchen activities but have their own hideaway too.

• Wall ovens. These continue to evolve with the latest standard being a stacked trio of convection oven, regular oven and warming drawer. Again, this avoids bending and makes cooking simpler for all ages.

• Pet pampering. Built-ins for pet food and even pet beds give your furry friends a place in the kitchen too.

• Entertainment centers. Enjoy your favorite show or news program while you’re making cupcakes for PTA or chopping vegetables for that night’s dinner party!

Whether you want to add a few new “toys” to your kitchen or do a complete kitchen remodel, we are here to help. Please contact us for a complimentary consultation.