Entertaining Arrangements: Move the Party Indoors
Switch around your furniture into multiple seating areas for fun and flexible party spaces
With temperatures dropping, the allure of an outdoor party is becoming a little less enticing. That certainly doesn’t mean fiestas stop — they just move back indoors! Cast a good, analytical glance over the seating options in your entertaining space. Naturally, people break off into smaller conversations during parties, so the most efficient layouts tend to involve several distinct seating areas to best accommodate different groups. You can achieve this whether your space is large or small: If you don’t have room for an extra couch, a small ottoman will do the trick. Wondering how to make your pad party ready? Take some cues from these following photos.
Chaise lounges are great pieces of furniture to use in rooms with several seating areas. Not only do they provide an extra spot to sit, but they lie low to the ground, allowing you to place it in a central area without obstructing visual space. Don’t forget to accompany your seating areas with side tables for cocktails!
This layout truly capitalizes on the ultimate entertaining floor plan. Not only does it include at least three different seating areas, but it manages to do so without compromising walking or standing room.
Tip: Using different colors in each seating area will help them to appear more distinct.
Tip: Using different colors in each seating area will help them to appear more distinct.
If your layout allows for it, combining your dining and living areas is a simple way to maximize seating room in one space. This is especially useful for throwing casual dinner parties, as guests can just as easily sit, mingle and eat on the couches.
Here’s another example of a space that mixes both the living and dining areas. Avoid “barrier” furniture between the two areas so the entire space feels more connected.
Long, narrow spaces may seem like a decorating nightmare, but they're really an entertaining dream as they’re ideal for setting up several seating areas. This one manages to set up two different seating areas with minimal furnishings, thus maintaining the room’s open flow.
Or, you could take this approach to outfitting a long narrow space: two seating areas back to back. The almost mirror-like reflection of the spaces gives the long room balance and maximizes seating.
However, don’t think a long, narrow room is a must to achieve the previous look. If you have more of a square or rectangular space, accomplish it with smaller furniture pieces so the groupings don’t appear heavy.
There’s nothing better on chilly evenings than a cozy fire, so why not create an additional seating area around it? Face two chairs towards one another with a small coffee table between for cocktails or hors d’oeuvre plates.
If you have window nooks, especially in small rooms like this one, take advantage by outfitting them with a window seat. You kill two birds with one stone by accomplishing extra seating and extra storage.
If you’re not comfortable with the permanence of a window seat, simply the addition of a chair (or two) will do.
If you have bulky armoires or cabinets taking up wall space, consider replacing them with a chair duo for another spot to sit. Get creative with a side table: this stack of vintage luggage is an instant conversation starter for whoever sits beside them.
Don’t feel like you need to follow any set rules when creating different seating areas. The key is to include as many seating vignettes as possible without overcrowding the space, as the designer did in this example.
This room is fairly spacious, but this trick is also great for small spaces: if you can’t squeeze in any more substantial furniture, get an ottoman instead. They take up little room and are portable, making them ideal for extra seating throughout the room.
Samar Ottoman
For an affordable addition to your current furniture setup, consider the wicker Samar ottoman from Crate and Barrel. Due to its neutral color and textural appearance, wicker tends to complement most styles. It's lightweight and easy to move to whichever discussion you find most interesting.
lubi olive daybed
This daybed from CB2 will give your living room a splash of fresh color and your guests a comfortable spot to chit-chat.
Day Bed One
This daybed is a little pricier, but the simple lines give it a light, delicate appeal. You can add it to an existing furniture arrangement and it won't add visual bulk.
Delia Chair
Just like Rebekah says in the description, two of these Delia chairs, plus a side table or small coffee table, will create a cozy yet contemporary seating area by the fire.
More: No Room for a Coffee Table?
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Unconventional Dining Room Seating
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More: No Room for a Coffee Table?
Styling With Great Little Stools and Hassocks
Unconventional Dining Room Seating
Designs for Living – 20 Inspiring Banquettes
Consider a Host and Hostess Chair