The Keeping Room in early colonial homes was not only a kitchen, but also a common room where families gathered. The Keeping Room featured a large fireplace and stone or brick floors. The fire was kept going day and night, making ready the bake oven, and supplying coals to light the many other fireplaces throughout the house. Early American taverns imitated this intimate room accented with a large bar for the enjoyment of their guest. Frank Betz Associates, Inc. home plans uphold the tradition of gathering around the fireplace with home plan designs featuring a versatile Keeping Room adjoining a modern kitchen.