A Place to Chat

Take a look at some of the ways to incorporate a conversation pit into your home as sunken seating makes a comeback.

Category: 
|
 

1. HSH Interiors
Inspired by the home’s 1960s architectural roots and the client’s passion for street art, this Beverly Hills bachelor pad balances retro influence with contemporary, indoor-outdoor living. At the heart of the outdoor space is a sculptural, circular conversation pit that functions as both a gathering place and an architectural focal point, oriented to take in hillside and city views. The curved form reflects the client’s preference for circles, creating an inviting setting for conversation, entertaining and enjoying the surrounding landscape. Photography by Berlyn Media.Details Design, LLC
The Carpenter’s Cabin in Hocking Hills, Ohio draws inspiration from the iconic conversation pit by Eero Saarinen at the J.I. Miller House, a place that shaped designer Jami Jenkins of Details Design while living nearby. Reimagined in a contemporary cabin setting, the sunken lounge offers an unexpected 24 feet of seating within a compact 9' × 9' footprint. More than a functional gathering space, it’s designed to spark imagination, creativity and connection across generations. Photography by Shelby Wilray.

2. Marmol Radziner
The sunken conversation pit forms an intimate gathering space within the home’s open plan. The family area and fireplace offer a grounded vantage point that contrasts with the soaring double-height kitchen. By subtly shifting elevations on an otherwise flat site, the design creates a sense of spatial variety while maintaining openness and connection to surrounding nature. Photography by Kasia Gatkowska.

3. Echlin London
This sunken living area includes a bespoke perfectly sized corner sofa designed by Echlin in cayenne velvet. It rests in a home declared as the epitome of ‘broken-plan’ living with small alcoves, different seating areas, places to rest or hide away but also feel connected. Photography by Taran Wilkhu.

4. Details Design, LLC
The Carpenter’s Cabin in Hocking Hills, Ohio draws inspiration from the iconic conversation pit by Eero Saarinen at the J.I. Miller House, a place that shaped designer Jami Jenkins of Details Design while living nearby. Reimagined in a contemporary cabin setting, the sunken lounge offers an unexpected 24 feet of seating within a compact 9' × 9' footprint. More than a functional gathering space, it’s designed to spark imagination, creativity and connection across generations. Photography by Shelby Wilray.

5. Bright Designlab
Designed for slow coastal living, this sunken conversation pit centers the home around warmth and gathering. The fireplace acts as both anchor and invitation, drawing people in and grounding the space. By lowering the seating plane and wrapping the hearth, the fireplace shifts from a backdrop to a shared experience, prioritizing connection over spectacle. It’s a quiet example of how thoughtful architecture can shape the way people come together. Photography by George Barberis.