The rise of open-plan kitchens with central islands has turned the kitchen into the main room for socialising at parties, an interior designer has claimed.Speaking to Canwest News Service, Jenny Martin said that with kitchens becoming more accessible and open its where people want to hang out.Ms Martin also pointed to the increasing popularity of kitchen islands that form a focal point around which guests can gather while the host prepares food. She noted that kitchen islands have become separate areas in their own right, equipped with their own sinks and appliances.Sociologist Richard Carpiano supported Ms Martins views on the role of the kitchen. Food is an important type of social glue, he told the news provider. The wonderful smells from a kitchen become the main attraction at any gathering.Last week interior designer Neera Gulati wrote in the Deccan Herald that a rooms layout was key factor in determining mood. She added that simply rearranging furniture could boost the ambience within a room.