When it comes to the architecture and design of a house, the possibilities for creating spaces are virtually endless. Homes come in all shapes and sizes, from modest cottages to sprawling mansions, and each of them may contain a variety of rooms, each serving different functions. Some rooms are essential to the structure of any home, while others are specialized spaces built for luxury, entertainment, or even unique hobbies.
In this blog, we will explore a complete list of rooms you could find in a house. Whether you’re designing a new home, renovating your current space, or simply daydreaming about your dream house, this list can serve as a guide to understanding the different types of rooms that can be found in residential buildings.
1. Living and Social Areas
The heart of every home is often the living and social areas, where families come together and entertain guests. Here’s a breakdown of the rooms that might fall into this category:
Living Room: The living room is one of the most essential spaces in any home. It’s often the first room guests see when they enter your house and serves as the central area for family gatherings, relaxation, and entertainment. Whether you’re hosting friends for a movie night, enjoying a quiet afternoon with a book, or simply unwinding after a long day, the living room is the space where memories are made and shared.
Family Room: The family room is often the most multifunctional space in the home. It’s where families come together to relax, play, watch TV, and spend quality time. Unlike the living room, which can sometimes be more formal or designed for entertaining guests, the family room is generally more casual and serves as a gathering place for everyday activities. Whether it’s for movie nights, board games, or simply unwinding after a busy day, the family room is truly the heart of family life.
Parlor: The parlor, often considered the formal living room of a house, is a space that has largely fallen out of common use in modern homes but still retains a place in more traditional or historic homes. Historically, the parlor was the main area where guests were received and where the family would gather for formal occasions. It was the epitome of elegance, decorum, and social gathering. Today, while the term “parlor” may seem old-fashioned, the idea of a space dedicated to receiving guests and enjoying a quieter, more formal atmosphere still holds appeal for many homeowners.
Media Room: A media room is a designated area within a home designed specifically for watching movies, TV shows, playing video games, or enjoying other forms of media. It’s a space built for entertainment, offering the perfect environment for immersive experiences and high-quality viewing. Whether it’s a home theater with surround sound, a room dedicated to gaming, or simply a space where you can unwind and watch your favorite content in comfort, a media room elevates the home entertainment experience.
Game Room: A game room is a dedicated space within a home designed specifically for playing games and engaging in recreational activities. Whether you’re a fan of video games, board games, billiards, or any other form of entertainment, a game room provides a fun and immersive environment where friends and family can come together to enjoy their favorite games. It’s a place where competition, laughter, and friendly banter fill the air, making it the ultimate retreat for leisure and enjoyment.
Home Theater: A home theater is a dedicated space designed to replicate the movie-going experience at home, offering an immersive viewing environment with high-quality audio and visual equipment. The goal is to create a cinematic atmosphere that mimics a commercial theater but in the comfort of your own living space. Whether it’s for watching movies, streaming content, or even gaming, a home theater elevates your entertainment experience by combining cutting-edge technology with luxurious comfort.
Library: A library room is more than just a space filled with books—it’s a sanctuary for those who cherish the written word, a quiet retreat for learning, reflection, and escape. Whether you’re an avid reader, a student, or someone who simply appreciates the calming ambiance of a well-organized space, a library room can be a place to relax, unwind, and dive into the world of literature, knowledge, and creativity.
Sunroom: A sunroom is a tranquil, light-filled space designed to bridge the gap between the indoors and the outdoors. Also known as a solarium, garden room, or conservatory, it is typically surrounded by large windows that allow natural light to flood the room, creating an airy and open atmosphere. Sunrooms are ideal for relaxation, entertainment, and enjoying the beauty of nature while being sheltered from the elements.
Conservatory: A conservatory room is a beautifully designed space that combines the indoors with the outdoors, typically made of glass walls and a glass roof. This room is meant to let in abundant natural light while providing a space to enjoy nature year-round, regardless of the weather. Historically, conservatories were used to grow exotic plants, especially in colder climates, but today, they serve various purposes such as a peaceful retreat, a place for entertaining, or a garden sanctuary.
Great Room: A great room is a large, open-concept space that serves as a central gathering area in a home. Typically, it combines several functions like living, dining, and sometimes even a kitchen, creating a seamless flow between the spaces. The great room is designed to be versatile, offering a spacious area for family activities, entertainment, and relaxation. Its design is perfect for large families or for those who love to host gatherings.
2. Kitchen and Dining Areas
The kitchen and dining areas of a home are where meals are prepared and enjoyed. Here are the rooms you may find in this section:
Kitchen: A kitchen is a designated area in a home where food is prepared, cooked, and sometimes consumed. Traditionally, the kitchen was a space for cooking, but over time, it has evolved to become much more. Modern kitchens often blend functionality with a welcoming environment that invites family members and guests to gather. Kitchens vary greatly in size, design, and layout, depending on the space available and the specific needs of the homeowners.
In addition to the cooking space, modern kitchens often feature dining areas, storage solutions, and sometimes an island or breakfast bar for casual meals. The design of the kitchen is often a reflection of personal style and practicality, with an emphasis on organization and ease of use.
Pantry: The pantry is an essential and often overlooked room in many homes, but it plays a critical role in keeping your kitchen organized and efficient. This storage space is where you keep non-perishable food items, spices, dry goods, and sometimes even cleaning supplies, helping to declutter your main kitchen area and make meal preparation easier. A well-organized pantry can be a game-changer for home cooks, making it easy to access ingredients quickly and maintain a tidy kitchen.
Breakfast Nook: A breakfast nook is a charming and functional area in a home, typically located in or near the kitchen, designed to serve as a cozy space for enjoying breakfast, casual meals, or snacks. Often smaller than a full dining room, a breakfast nook offers a more intimate setting for family gatherings, casual dining, or even a moment of solitude with a cup of coffee. It’s a space where you can relax, enjoy a meal, and start your day in comfort.
Dining Room: The dining room is a dedicated space in a home where families and guests come together to share meals, celebrate special occasions, and make lasting memories. Whether it’s a formal setting for holiday dinners or a casual space for everyday meals, the dining room serves as a focal point for dining and social interaction. It is more than just a place to eat; it’s a space where connections are made, stories are shared, and traditions are passed down.
Butler’s Pantry: A butler’s pantry is a highly functional and stylish space that has become a popular feature in modern homes, particularly in large kitchens. Traditionally, a butler’s pantry was a space between the kitchen and dining room, where food and drinks were prepared and served, often by a butler or a domestic staff. In contemporary homes, however, this space serves as a practical storage area, offering convenience, organization, and a little extra luxury in the kitchen.
Wine Cellar: A wine cellar is a dedicated space designed specifically for storing and aging wine in optimal conditions. Whether you’re a casual enthusiast with a few bottles or a serious connoisseur with an extensive collection, a wine cellar provides the ideal environment for preserving and showcasing your wine. The temperature, humidity, light exposure, and storage arrangement all play crucial roles in ensuring that wine maintains its flavor, character, and quality over time.
Outdoor Kitchen: An outdoor kitchen is more than just a grill on the patio. It’s an extension of your living space that turns your backyard into a functional and luxurious outdoor dining and entertainment area. With the ability to cook and entertain in the open air, an outdoor kitchen allows you to enjoy cooking, dining, and socializing in the fresh air while enhancing the overall aesthetic and utility of your outdoor space. Whether you’re hosting a family BBQ or creating a full-fledged cooking space, an outdoor kitchen can transform how you live and entertain.
BBQ Area: A BBQ area is a dedicated outdoor space designed for grilling, cooking, and enjoying meals in the fresh air. Whether you have a simple charcoal grill or an elaborate built-in barbecue station, a well-designed BBQ area can elevate your outdoor living experience, offering a space to cook, socialize, and entertain. From family cookouts to large gatherings, the BBQ area is the heart of many outdoor celebrations and provides the perfect environment for creating delicious meals and lasting memories.
3. Bedrooms and Sleeping Areas
A home’s bedrooms provide spaces for rest and relaxation. Bedrooms vary in size and design depending on the household’s needs:
Master Bedroom: The master bedroom is the ultimate retreat in any home — a space designed for rest, relaxation, and personal comfort. It’s not just a room to sleep in but a personal sanctuary where you can unwind from the stresses of daily life, recharge your batteries, and enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep. The master bedroom should reflect your personal style while also promoting a sense of calm and tranquility, allowing you to relax and rejuvenate.
Guest Bedroom: A guest room is a dedicated space in your home designed to provide comfort and privacy for guests who stay overnight or for extended periods. It should offer a peaceful environment, with all the necessary amenities to ensure your guests feel at ease and relaxed. Whether it’s a cozy nook or a spacious suite, the guest room plays an important role in making visitors feel at home.
Child’s Bedroom: A child’s bedroom is more than just a place to sleep — it’s a space where your child can explore, learn, play, and grow. Designing a child’s bedroom involves creating an environment that encourages creativity, comfort, and organization while reflecting your child’s personality and interests. It’s a place where they can feel safe, express themselves, and enjoy both relaxation and playtime.
Nursery: A nursery is a dedicated room in your home designed for the care and comfort of your newborn or young child. It’s a space where your baby will sleep, be fed, and begin to explore their early surroundings. Designing a nursery involves creating a calm, nurturing environment that promotes rest, bonding, and safety while reflecting your personal style and creating a warm welcome for your little one.
Teen’s Bedroom: A teen’s bedroom is a space where self-expression, comfort, and functionality come together. As teens transition from childhood to adulthood, their bedroom often becomes a reflection of their evolving personality, interests, and style. A teen’s bedroom should not only be a place for sleeping but also a functional and inspiring environment for studying, socializing, and relaxing.
Spare Room: A spare room is a flexible, often underutilized space in a home that can serve a variety of purposes depending on your needs. Whether it’s for guests, a home office, a hobby space, or additional storage, a spare room offers the opportunity to create a room that adapts to your lifestyle. Because it is not dedicated to a specific function, the spare room can easily be transformed to serve different roles as needs change over time.
In-Law Suite: An in-law suite is a self-contained living area within or adjacent to a home, designed to provide independent living quarters for extended family members, such as parents, grandparents, or adult children. It’s an ideal solution for families who want to live close to one another while still maintaining privacy and autonomy. These suites are often fully equipped with their own bedroom, bathroom, kitchenette, and sometimes a living area, offering a comfortable and private space for family members.
Loft Bedroom: A loft bedroom is a unique and modern bedroom design that takes advantage of open floor plans, often found in industrial or contemporary-style homes. Loft bedrooms typically make use of vertical space, offering a sense of openness and airiness while also creating a functional and cozy living area. Often situated on an upper level or mezzanine of a home or apartment, a loft bedroom can be a private retreat, blending both style and function in one distinctive space.
4. Bathrooms
Bathrooms are essential for personal hygiene and wellness. Many homes feature a variety of bathroom types:
Master Bathroom: The master bathroom is often one of the most important rooms in a home, designed to provide a luxurious and private space for personal care and relaxation. As an extension of the master bedroom, it’s a place where you can unwind after a long day or start your morning feeling refreshed. With its design and functionality, the master bathroom serves not only as a functional space for getting ready but also as a sanctuary where comfort and style meet.
En-Suite Bathroom: An en suite bathroom is a bathroom that is directly attached to a bedroom, offering private access from within the room. This feature is particularly popular in master bedrooms, but it can also be found in guest bedrooms or other areas of a home. The convenience and privacy of an en suite bathroom make it a desirable feature for many homeowners, as it combines both functional and aesthetic benefits.
Half Bath: A half bath (also known as a powder room) is a small bathroom that contains only two essential fixtures: a toilet and a sink. It is typically smaller than a full bathroom and is designed for convenience and quick use. Half baths are often located in areas of the home that are frequently used by guests, such as near the living room, hallway, or entryway, but they can also be added to various spaces like basements or garages.
Powder Room: A powder room, also known as a half bath, is a small, typically elegant bathroom that contains just two key fixtures: a toilet and a sink. Unlike a full bathroom, it does not have a bathtub or shower. Powder rooms are often designed with the goal of providing a convenient bathroom for guests and visitors while maintaining a sense of style and sophistication in a compact space.
Guest Bathroom: A guest bathroom is a bathroom designed to accommodate visitors, offering a comfortable, clean, and functional space for guests to freshen up during their stay. Whether it’s a dedicated room for visitors or simply a bathroom used by guests, it should be well-appointed with the essentials and thoughtfully decorated to ensure comfort and convenience.
Spa Bathroom: A spa bathroom is a bathroom designed to create a serene, calming environment that mimics the relaxation and rejuvenation typically found in a spa. It’s a space dedicated to self-care, offering features and design elements that promote relaxation, tranquility, and a sense of wellness. Spa bathrooms combine high-end finishes, soothing aesthetics, and luxury features to create an indulgent experience right in the comfort of your own home.
Wet Room: A wet room is a type of bathroom where the shower area is fully integrated into the space, with no shower enclosure or bathtub. In a wet room, the entire room is designed to be waterproof, allowing the shower to be open and free of any barriers. Wet rooms are often characterized by a seamless design where the floor is sloped toward a drain, and the walls are fully tiled, ensuring water doesn’t escape onto the rest of the bathroom.
Jacuzzi Room: A Jacuzzi room is a dedicated space in a home where a Jacuzzi or hot tub is featured as the main element of relaxation. These rooms are designed to offer a luxurious and tranquil environment where you can unwind and enjoy the benefits of hydrotherapy. Whether a standalone space or integrated into a larger bathroom, Jacuzzi rooms elevate the experience of bathing by adding comfort, indulgence, and wellness benefits.
Sauna: A sauna is a small room or space designed to generate dry heat or steam for the purpose of relaxation, stress relief, and potential health benefits. Traditionally, saunas are built from wood and feature benches where individuals sit and enjoy the warmth. The heat from a sauna promotes sweating, which is believed to help with detoxification, improve circulation, and provide relaxation for both the mind and body.
Steam Room: A steam room is a heated space designed to provide a moist, humid environment, typically for the purposes of relaxation, health benefits, and detoxification. Unlike a sauna, which provides dry heat, a steam room generates steam by heating water, filling the room with high humidity and moist air. The steam helps open pores, relax muscles, and promote a sense of calm and well-being.
5. Utility and Service Rooms
These rooms are essential for maintaining a clean, organized, and functional home:
Laundry Room: A laundry room is a designated space in a home where clothes and other textiles are washed, dried, and often folded or ironed. It is typically equipped with a washer and dryer, as well as storage for detergents, fabric softeners, and other laundry supplies. While it is primarily a utilitarian space, a well-designed laundry room can make the often tedious task of laundry much more efficient and even enjoyable.
Mudroom: A mudroom is a functional space in a home, typically located near the entryway, where people can remove and store their outerwear, shoes, and other items before entering the main living areas. It’s designed to keep dirt, mud, and moisture from spreading throughout the house, hence the name “mudroom.” Mudrooms are especially useful in homes where outdoor activities, gardening, or pets are common, as they offer a designated place for cleaning up and organizing items before entering the rest of the home.
Garage: A garage is an enclosed space, typically located adjacent to or within a home, designed to store vehicles such as cars, motorcycles, and bicycles. However, garages are often used for more than just parking; they frequently serve as storage areas for tools, seasonal items, outdoor equipment, and other household goods. In some homes, garages are also used as workshops, home gyms, or extra living space, depending on the layout and homeowner preferences.
Workshop: A workshop is a dedicated area within a home or building where individuals can engage in hands-on activities such as crafting, building, repairing, or creating various projects. These spaces are often equipped with specialized tools, workbenches, storage for materials, and other equipment necessary for woodworking, metalworking, DIY projects, or hobbies like sewing, painting, or electronics.
Utility Room: A utility room is a space in a home primarily designed for carrying out household tasks that are not part of the main living or bedroom areas. This functional room is typically used for chores such as laundry, cleaning, and storing cleaning supplies, as well as organizing household items like tools, appliances, or seasonal decorations. Utility rooms help keep the rest of the house organized by providing a dedicated space for tasks that would otherwise clutter up other areas.
Storage Room: A storage room is a designated area in a home used primarily for storing a wide variety of items that are not needed on a daily basis. It provides a place to keep seasonal items, decorations, extra household supplies, or anything that doesn’t fit in other areas of the home. Storage rooms can vary in size and function, but they are crucial for maintaining a clutter-free living space and keeping personal belongings organized.
Crawl Space: A crawl space is a shallow, often unfinished area beneath a home, typically located between the ground and the first floor. This space allows for the installation of plumbing, electrical wiring, and HVAC systems, as well as providing access to these utilities for maintenance or repairs. As the name suggests, crawl spaces are not tall enough to stand in, requiring individuals to crawl to move through them. Despite their small size, crawl spaces play an essential role in the structure and maintenance of a home.
Attic: An attic is a space located directly beneath the roof of a house. Typically, it is an unused or storage area that provides extra space for a variety of purposes. Attics are commonly used to store items that are not regularly needed, such as seasonal decorations, old furniture, or family heirlooms. In some homes, attics are finished and converted into additional living space, such as bedrooms, offices, or even home theaters.
6. Specialty Rooms
These rooms cater to specific interests, hobbies, or lifestyle choices:
Home Office: A home office is a designated area within a home where individuals can work, manage their tasks, and engage in professional or creative activities. With the rise of remote work, freelancing, and entrepreneurship, home offices have become increasingly important. Whether it’s a dedicated room or a corner in a larger space, a well-designed home office provides an environment that fosters productivity, focus, and creativity.
Art Studio: An art studio is a dedicated space designed specifically for creating and working on art. Whether you’re a professional artist or a hobbyist, an art studio provides the ideal environment for creating, experimenting, and honing your craft. These spaces are carefully designed to accommodate different art forms such as painting, sculpture, drawing, photography, and more. Art studios are often equipped with specialized tools, materials, and lighting to support artistic processes.
Music Room: A music room is a designated area in a home or studio specifically designed for musical activities such as practicing instruments, composing, recording, and enjoying music. This space serves as a sanctuary for musicians, whether they are hobbyists, students, or professionals. A well-designed music room provides the necessary acoustics, equipment, and atmosphere to foster creativity, focus, and musical growth.
Gym: A gym room is a dedicated area within a home designed for physical exercise, fitness routines, and overall wellness. Whether it’s a small room with basic equipment or a full-fledged home gym with various machines and free weights, a gym room provides a convenient and private space to maintain an active lifestyle. This space is ideal for those who prefer to work out at home, saving time and money spent on gym memberships while enjoying the flexibility of training on their own schedule.
Yoga Room: A yoga room is a dedicated space in your home designed for practicing yoga, meditation, and other mindfulness activities. It’s an area where you can focus on both physical and mental well-being, providing a peaceful environment to stretch, relax, and clear your mind. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned yogi, having a dedicated yoga room allows for a consistent practice that can enhance flexibility, strength, and inner peace.
Playroom: A playroom is a designated area in a home specifically designed for children to play, explore, and engage in creative activities. It’s a space where kids can let their imaginations run wild while participating in activities like building, crafting, reading, and playing games. A well-organized playroom encourages learning, physical activity, and social interaction in a safe environment, helping to keep toys and games out of the rest of the home.
Library: A library is a dedicated room or area in a home designed for reading, studying, and storing books. It is a sanctuary for those who enjoy immersing themselves in literature, research, or simply the peaceful ambiance of a space filled with knowledge and imagination. Libraries can range from simple reading nooks with a few shelves to expansive rooms with walls of books, comfortable seating, and designated areas for study or relaxation.
Wine Tasting Room: A wine tasting room is a dedicated area in a home or a winery where individuals can sample and enjoy different wines in a comfortable, controlled environment. Designed to provide an immersive experience, these rooms allow wine enthusiasts to taste various types of wine, learn about wine pairings, and appreciate the nuances of flavor, aroma, and texture. Whether for personal enjoyment or entertaining guests, a wine tasting room elevates the experience of wine appreciation.
Game Room: A game room is a dedicated area within a home designed specifically for recreational activities and entertainment. It’s a space where family members and friends can gather to enjoy various types of games, whether they’re video games, board games, card games, or even physical activities like pool, ping pong, or air hockey. Game rooms are built to foster fun, social interaction, and relaxation, making them a perfect addition to any home.
7. Outdoor Spaces
In addition to the indoor spaces, many homes also feature outdoor areas for relaxation, entertainment, or gardening:
Patio: A patio is an outdoor living space that is typically located at the back or side of a house, designed for relaxation, dining, or entertainment. Patios are often paved with materials like stone, brick, concrete, or tiles, and they serve as an extension of the indoor living area, offering a comfortable space to enjoy nature, socialize, or unwind. Whether it’s a cozy nook with seating or a large area for family gatherings, patios provide an inviting outdoor retreat.
Deck: A deck is an elevated outdoor platform typically made of wood, composite materials, or other durable materials, attached to a house. Decks provide additional living space outside, often used for dining, lounging, entertaining, or enjoying outdoor activities. They are perfect for connecting indoor living areas to outdoor landscapes, offering a stylish and functional space to relax and entertain.
Pergola: A pergola is an outdoor structure consisting of vertical posts or pillars that support a roof-like framework of beams or latticework. It’s typically used in gardens, patios, or backyards to provide shade, create a cozy retreat, or enhance the aesthetics of outdoor spaces. Unlike fully enclosed structures like gazebos or patios, pergolas allow plenty of air circulation and can be partially open to the sky, offering a perfect balance of shade and sunlight.
Gazebo: A gazebo is a freestanding, open-sided outdoor structure that provides shade and shelter while enhancing the beauty of a garden or backyard. Typically octagonal or circular in shape, gazebos are often used for outdoor gatherings, providing a perfect spot for relaxation, dining, or hosting events. With their elegant, canopy-like roofs and graceful design, gazebos serve as both functional and aesthetic focal points in outdoor spaces.
Pool House: A pool house is a separate structure located near a swimming pool, designed to offer a variety of functions for comfort, convenience, and entertainment. It serves as a space where people can relax, change clothes, store pool equipment, or even entertain guests. Pool houses range from simple, functional buildings with just the essentials to elaborate, luxury retreats complete with kitchens, bathrooms, lounges, and even guest rooms.
Outdoor Dining Area: An outdoor dining area is a designated space in your yard or patio designed for enjoying meals outside. Whether it’s for family dinners, entertaining guests, or simply enjoying a morning cup of coffee, an outdoor dining area adds both functionality and beauty to your home. These spaces can range from a simple table and chairs to elaborate setups with full kitchens, fire pits, and comfortable seating.
8. Unique and Luxury Rooms
For those looking to make their homes extraordinary, some rooms are designed for luxury and specialized needs:
Home Theater: A home theater is a dedicated room or space in a home designed to replicate the cinema experience. Equipped with high-quality audiovisual equipment, comfortable seating, and ambient lighting, a home theater offers a luxurious and immersive viewing experience for movies, TV shows, video games, and more. Whether it’s a small media room or an elaborate setup with a projector and surround sound, a home theater transforms your home into a personal movie theater.
Indoor Pool: An indoor pool is a swimming pool located inside a building, typically in a basement, a dedicated room, or an attached structure. It provides the benefits of swimming and relaxation year-round, regardless of the weather conditions outside. Indoor pools are often found in luxury homes, resorts, or wellness centers and can be designed to suit various sizes, aesthetics, and functions.
Bowling Alley: A bowling alley in a home is a luxurious and fun addition that brings the excitement of bowling right to your doorstep. Whether designed for casual family fun or competitive gameplay, a private bowling alley transforms your home into a personal entertainment hub. These spaces are often outfitted with professional-grade lanes, scoring systems, and comfortable seating, offering a unique way to entertain guests, host parties, or enjoy recreational bowling with friends and family.
Private Spa: A private spa is an exclusive wellness space within a home, designed for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation. It provides a tranquil environment where homeowners can unwind, destress, and indulge in therapeutic treatments, all in the comfort of their own home. A private spa can include features like hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms, massage tables, and even beauty treatments, making it a perfect sanctuary for self-care and relaxation.
Tennis Court: A tennis court is a specially designed outdoor or indoor area where tennis is played. These courts are built to meet specific dimensions and surface types, offering an ideal environment for both recreational and competitive play. Having a private tennis court is a luxurious addition to any home, providing a space for exercise, socialization, and friendly competition with family and friends.
Library with Fireplace: A library with a fireplace combines the beauty of a quiet reading space with the warmth and ambiance of a crackling fire, creating an inviting environment perfect for relaxation, study, or leisure reading. This type of library is designed not only for storing books but also as a place where one can unwind and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by the comforting glow of a fireplace.
Wine Cellar: A wine cellar is a specialized room designed for storing wine in optimal conditions, ensuring its longevity and preservation. It’s often built in a cool, dark, and temperature-controlled environment to maintain the ideal conditions for aging wine. For wine enthusiasts, a wine cellar is not only a functional space for storage but also a sophisticated area for wine tasting, showcasing a collection, and entertaining guests.
