If you’ve shied away from entertaining in your small space simply because of its square footage, or if you have some assumption that all parties have to be grandiose, stop thinking that way and host your first dinner party! Don’t let the size of your space dissuade your plans to host a big springtime event. With the right accessories and a little know-how it can be done.
Tables, Seating, and Chairs. Oh My!
Seating arrangements often prove to be the most difficult thing to pull off when hosting in a small space. Many small rooms feel cramped when there’s a large dining table taking up space. And chairs? There never seem to be enough. This is where you must get creative. Break up the seating arrangements and host a casual dinner party that’s more cocktail hour than black-tie affair. Set up impromptu tables and use your existing furniture, including the coffee table and end tables, as surfaces for your guests’ drinks and hors d’oeuvres.
Don’t restrict access to other rooms that can be used for seating, this includes the kitchen area and entryways with benches and a little breathing room. If you have a backyard, deck or patio, open up your space, while encouraging attendees to mix and mingle inside and outside.
Cut the Clutter ASAP
The easiest way to make a room look full is to fill it up with clutter. Of course it doesn’t happen on purpose, but clutter always happens. Before hosting your party clean up your space and nix all of the unsightly clutter. Be sure to sort through all of your unopened mail, do all of the laundry, clean up your workspace, and if you have pets, make sure the space is clear of toys and accessories. After you’ve cleaned up, you may find yourself welcoming a larger-looking space and thinking more clearly, to boot.
Spring Is in the Air, Decorate with Springtime Flair
Those dreary winter blues have passed and we’re welcoming the arrival of a new, warmer season. Decorating with fresh springtime flowers can bring energy and new life into your small space. Fill your home with signs of spring like fresh cut tulips, daisies and lilies to show off your style. Fresh flowers can make a lovely addition to entryways and fresh blooms can help add pops of colors to not-so-colorful corners and spaces throughout your home. Online floral delivery services like FTD can provide you with your favorite colorful blooms right when you need them.
After you’ve received your flowers, carefully consider bouquet placement, Better Homes and Gardens recommends keeping flowers away from direct sunlight and heating vents. Petals can wilt if they’re in the path of your HVAC system and you can potentially scorch your blooms if they’re too close to the window.
Let in the Light
Lighting is the most important element in making a room appear larger. Light paint colors like springtime pastels and soft neutrals can help to make small spaces appear larger. Installing skylights or recessed lighting can also brighten up a small space.
However, if you’re not budgeting for an entire room renovation, consider some small additions that can help make your space appear larger. Hang mirrors throughout your home or add a few floor lamps here and there to enliven your small space. Natural lighting also helps to enhance the room’s look and feel, so draw back those heavy winter drapes — it’s time to host your springtime dinner party.
