Just because your apartment’s square footage is small doesn’t mean that you can’t have people over for the most awesome house parties. With the right planning, some coordination, and a few adjustments to your home’s interior design, it won’t be hard to turn your simple abode into the perfect space for hosting get-togethers.
Here are some helpful decorating tips and tricks for preparing your apartment for entertaining guests:
1) Display Artwork to Help Spark Conversations
Artwork can serve as a focal point in your apartment and provide an excellentconversation starter for guests. This applies whether you're showcasing original pieces, photographs, or contemporary art posters from a reputable art platform like DROOL.
When selecting and arranging the pieces you want to display, however, be mindful of their scale and proportion. Larger or uniquely shaped pieces, like skateboard wall art, best serve as statement pieces, while smaller pieces like cool art prints can be grouped to create an interesting visual impact together. Experiment with different arrangements until you find one that complements the overall aesthetic of your space, and unlock the combination that will have you looking forward to entertaining at your next event.
2) Rearrange Your Furniture to Improve Foot Traffic Flow
Another consideration you should make if you want to entertain guests more often is to ensure that the layout facilitates smooth movement throughout the space. Rearranging your furniture can duly improve foot traffic flow and create a more inviting and comfortable environment for socialising.
Begin by assessing the current arrangement of your furniture, and then identify any potential obstacles or areas of congestion. Consider placing larger furniture pieces, such as sofas and armchairs, against the walls to maximise floor space in the centre of the room. This not only helps to open up the area but also encourages guests to gather around the perimeter, promoting conversation and interaction.
Aim to create clear pathways that allow guests to move freely between different areas of the apartment, such as the living room, dining area, and kitchen.
3) Maximise Your Available Seating
Ample seating is essential towards ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and accommodated. It also lets you entertain larger groups and encourages guests to linger and socialise for longer periods.
Have a look at the available seating in your apartment and consider additional options to supplement your existing furniture. Apart from traditional seating arrangements such as sofas and armchairs, think about incorporating versatile pieces such as ottomans, pouffes, and floor cushions into your apartment space that can easily be moved and rearranged to accommodate varying numbers of guests.
If your space is limited, consider utilising multifunctional furniture solutions such as foldable chairs or benches that can be stored away when not in use. You can also use items such as large floor pillows or bean bags to provide additional seating options for your guests.
4) Use a Coat Rack or Other Storage Solutions to Hang Coats, Hats, and Bags
You’ll also want to prepare a designated area for coats, hats, and bags to keep your small apartment space organised and clutter-free. A coat rack or hooks near the entrance of your apartment will allow guests to easily hang up their outerwear upon arrival, freeing up valuable floor space and keeping coats from being strewn across furniture.
Opt for a coat rack or wall-mounted hooks that suit the style of your apartment and provide ample space for guests to hang their belongings. You can also make use of alternative storage solutions such as a standing coat rack or an over-the-door hook organiser that can be easily removed or folded away when you’re not using them.
Frequent guests at your apartment may also appreciate additional storage solutions such as baskets or bins for smaller items such as gloves, scarves, and umbrellas. That means that they won’t have to be concerned about bringing these items around with them, which will allow them to enjoy the party.
Don’t discount how elegant your coat rack, shelves, or storage bins will look in your apartment. These will also impress upon guests that they’re extra welcome in your home and that you’re the type to pull out all the stops for them as their host.
5) Optimise Your Counter Space
You should also optimise your available counter space to make serving more efficient while also enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of your kitchen. Start by decluttering your countertops and removing any unnecessary items or appliances that take up valuable space. Store items that are not frequently used in cabinets or drawers to free up room for essential cooking and serving tasks.
When setting up your counter space for entertaining, prioritise flow of movement and accessibility for both you and your guests. Arrange items such as serving platters, utensils, and condiments in a logical and easy-to-reach manner to streamline meal serving.
If the space permits, create designated stations for different tasks, such as a beverage station with a coffee maker and assorted teas or a dessert station with cake stands and dessert plates. This not only helps to keep your counter space neat and organised, but also adds a touch of sophistication to your entertaining setup.
6) Keep Table Décor Simple
Try to strike a balance between elegance and practicality when setting your table. The simplest table décor will allow you to create a polished and inviting tablescape without overwhelming your guests or detracting from the dining experience.
Select a cohesive colour scheme or theme for your table décor that complements the overall aesthetic of your home. Choose table linens, dinnerware, and centrepieces that coordinate with your chosen theme, which will result in a harmonious and visually appealing dining table.
Opt for minimalist centrepieces such as fresh flowers, greenery, or candles. These will add a touch of elegance to your setup without overpowering the table. Arrange your centrepieces in a low-profile vessel or container to ensure that guests can see and converse across the table without obstruction.
Avoid overcrowding the table with unnecessary decorations or clutter. Instead, focus on highlighting key elements like your tableware to put the focus on the dining experience.
As seen from the tips above, even a small apartment can be transformed into the perfect space to entertain. Use these tips, and grab some quality pieces from DROOL, to turn your apartment into a stylish and functional venue for hosting all kinds of gatherings, from family dinners to casual get-togethers with friends.
