The festive season is all about bringing people together and celebrating with friends and family, but if you’re living in a compact space, the idea of hosting can feel daunting. Whether you’re planning a kids’ pyjama party, an intimate dinner or a Galsmas brunch, we’ve pulled together our top five hosting tips to help you celebrate in style this season.
Expanding furniture
Invest in furniture that adapts to your hosting needs. An extending dining table is your best friend during the festive season – it gives you the freedom to host a full dinner party without sacrificing everyday space. Crafted from solid rubberwood, our Atlas table features a drop-leaf design, so you can easily adjust the tabletop size, making it ideal for compact spaces or accommodating extra guests.
Pair it with stackable or folding dining chairs like the Retoro or Ciclo, which can be stored easily in a cupboard, and you have a winning compact-home combination.
Keep it flexible and vertical
Use moveable furniture and vertical space to keep things versatile. Side tables that can be pulled out and moved around are a game changer when you’re entertaining. Take the ingenious Uma stacking nest of tables – each piece nests neatly together, offering a smart space-saving solution for small homes or multifunctional rooms. Use them separately to increase surface area during gatherings, or keep them stacked to maintain an organised, clutter-free environment. The walnut folding stool is another useful piece that can serve as extra seating or a handy surface, then fold away neatly when not in use.
Keep your space feeling open by incorporating vertical storage, such as a leaning shelving unit. Use it to display Secret Santa gifts, tea lights for ambience and framed photos of friends and family visiting from near and far.
Sleepover ready
Children’s pyjama party or last-minute guests? No problem. Create an impromptu sleep or slouch space with our savvy sleepover range, made by hand at our London workshop. Make it effortless in any overnight scenario with our Bed in a Bag – this easy-to-store futon comes complete with a handy canvas storage bag and takes seconds to roll out. Layer in extra throws and plush cushions for a cosy vibe that even adults will love.
Let’s go outside
Think of your outdoor space as an extension of your home. If you’ve got a balcony, patio or even a small garden, make use of it. Sinking into outdoor seating like the Ranch day bed or a couple of Admiral folding chairs can turn a chilly corner into a magical hot-toddy spot. Add cushions and sheepskin throws and charming tea lights to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
For a little pièce de résistance, gift your guests a cosy knitted hat, fleece socks or a super-snuggly jacket to keep them toasty throughout the evening.
Prep, prep, prep
A successful party starts long before the first guest arrives, especially if space is limited. Plan ahead by prepping as much food as possible in advance. Dishes that can be made the day before or served as a buffet are lifesavers. Don’t be afraid to share the load with guests – ask one to bring a tray of desserts, another a platter of snacks, and someone else a festive drink. These Totte trays are fun, colourful and perfect for displaying party food.
Delegating not only frees up your kitchen and storage space but also reduces cost and stress, leaving you free to enjoy the festivities. A make-your-own cocktail trolley is another fun idea to incorporate; our new Nakama trolley can be moved around your space for friends to help themselves – a brilliant icebreaker!
From spontaneous sleepovers to jolly holiday dinners, no matter your square footage – with the right furniture and clever hosting skills, the festive season will be a breeze. Ready to transform your space? Check out our app, pop into a store or visit us online this celebratory season.
