New-build homeowners are placing value on lifestyle and designing homes for joy. Current design trends take that concept to heart, with floor plans and features geared for families to have fun at home together, and entertain guests easily. Fun spaces at home aren’t just to keep the good times rolling, but also address health and wellness design, as socializing has mental health benefits.

Here are six trending fun zones designed for family fun, and how to incorporate them into your new home design.

1. The Sociable Kitchen

Everyone knows that the best parties happen in the kitchen, which is why a kitchen designed for socializing is an essential fun zone.

“Designing a kitchen with entertaining in mind means having a gathering spot where everyone can mix and mingle. An island layout is usually best, but even a peninsula where people can munch on apps or sip beverages while they chat is a great feature,” says designer Sharon Sherman, founder and owner of Thyme and Place Design.

Also important are :

• Open layout, where hosts and guests can connect easily.
• Enough space to pass easily between counters, island, and seating.
• Multiple access points in and out of the room for good traffic flow.
• Entertainment-focused appliances. “Convertible refrigerator drawers, where beverages are kept cold, but the top drawer can become a freezer, if necessary; a multi-functional faucet that delivers hot, cold, or sparkling water at the touch of a button; and a drawer dishwasher for glasses,” are all good appliance choices, says Sherman.

2. Billiards Room

When choosing a billiards table, be mindful of space planning. Measure the room size and consider furniture placement before you select a table. You need to be able to pass easily around the table and have generous clearance for cue movement.

A large light fixture hung over the table will provide the light you need, while adding style, too. It’s important to be aware of shadows that can hamper the game experience when installing lights.

3. Beverage Center

Usually located near the kitchen or dining room, or sometimes in a finished lower level, beverage centers are among the top mid-year trends in 2025 because of their value for entertaining. A beverage center facilitates self-serve with style and can be specialized as a wine or coffee bar, depending on your preference.

To make your beverage center the life of the party, “include a built-in coffee/latte maker, wine refrigerator or a custom beverage dispenser to self-serve your signature cocktail for the event,” says Sherman.

Other popular design features include :

• Sink.
• Prep counter.
• Cabinetry with storage for coffee, tea and dry cocktail ingredients.
• Mini fridge.
• Beverage cooler.
• Decorative details, such as statement backsplash.

4. Putting Green

An at-home putting green is an all-ages, all-ability activity, perfect for family bonding or having fun with guests.

Indoors, a putting green can be as simple as a putting mat, or complex and custom, with special flooring, slopes and multiple holes, depending on available space and budget. Complete your at-home golf facility with an indoor golf simulator, which are also trending for family fun.

5. Games and Hobby Rooms

A games room is the perfect place for some friendly competition among family members or with guests. While you can easily have a games or hobby room anywhere in your home, it’s a common and fun use for a flex room, a popular floor plan feature in new construction homes

Trending features in games rooms include :

• Poker table.
• Board game table.
• Arcade games.
• Built-in storage, with drawers and shelves to contain board games, cards, poker chips, gaming controllers, extra game board pieces, and more.

Trending hobby rooms that are geared for good times with family and guests are Lego lounges and music rooms. In a Lego lounge, consider Lego tables to build from at varying heights, or with appropriate seating for guests of all ages to enjoy.

In a music room, include space to jam, comfortable seating for the audience during your at-home concert, and soundproofing to enhance the experience.

6. Fire Pit

What’s more sociable than gathering for a fireside chat with friends and family?

Comfortable seating is a must. Portable chairs, built-in banquettes, or sofas arranged in a circular pattern will naturally encourage conversation. Ensure enough clearance between seating and the fire (at least three feet) for safety.

Shelter the fire pit, so that you can use it during cooler or inclement weather. Look for fire-resistant materials and opt for a structure that is ventilated, such as a canopy or a pergola.

6 Trending Fun Zones in 2025 to Add to Your New Home Design by Heather Wright | Livabl