The space is very large and we used mostly the living room for a retreat. We really enjoyed fixing meals together in the kitchen and chatting around the table while we worked. A few more cooking pans would be good for large groups. We had 15 and sometimes needed to use more pans. We brought a large rice cooker that worked for our needs, but unless you have a large group, it's not necessary. We spent most of the time inside but some of our group sat outside for lunch which was very pleasant. The street is quiet and is the house.