Tips for Those Who Love Guests but Live in a Small Apartment

Bringing a large group together in a small apartment has always been a challenging task. In the past, it was solved quite easily: an enormous dining table was placed in the center of the room, unfolded, and surrounded by chairs and additional stools brought from the kitchen. The guests were cramped between the walls and chairs, trying not to leave the table to avoid disturbing others. The hostess would sit by the entrance for easy access to the kitchen every few minutes.

We officially announce: such gatherings are over! At modern parties, guests move around the room with glasses, listen to music, and talk to each other. There are several seating areas and rest spots, and snacks are served in a buffet format. Here are some ideas on how to accommodate guests in this setting.

At the Bar Counter

You can set up a bar anywhere: along the kitchen countertop, by the windowsill, or next to a piano. You will need bar stools or footstools: these can be bought in advance for future parties or rented. To reduce the load on the kitchen (if you're using the countertop), move the table to a corner and organize snacks on it. Place a bartender at the bar who pours drinks and entertains guests with conversation. The role of a bartender is easy to play if you learn a few cocktail recipes, buy ingredients in advance, prepare glasses, and freeze ice.

By the Windowsill

If you place enough cushions on it, the windowsill can become another sofa. The condition is that the windows should be closed and nothing should be leaned against the glass. It's more comfortable to sit half-seated on the windowsill, with legs on the floor and support from soft cushions. Walk along the windowsills regularly with drinks and trays so guests are more comfortable. Make sure there's no draft coming through the windows beforehand.

Along the Perimeter

Any benches or banquettes (even storage modules) can serve as additional seating if placed along the walls and equipped with cushions. Place stools with trays at the corners, turning them into coffee tables.

In this way, everyone sits facing each other, with drinks, snacks, and welcoming hosts easily accessible in the center of the room, all while chatting with everyone at once.

With seating arrangements sorted out—everyone sitting on sofas, benches, at the bar, or even on the windowsill—the next question is how to serve snacks?

Journal and Coffee Tables

It's great when there are many of them: one for snacks for guests sitting on the sofa, others for those seated on benches or banquettes.

Large Trays

These can easily replace coffee tables: place trays with snacks in the center of the windowsill, on TV stands, or on an unused stove.

Poufs

The most flexible ones can become snack tables or seating spots, depending on the situation.

Wheeled Trolleys

This is a mobile coffee table that can move around the room during the party. It’s perfect for placing drinks, glasses, plates, and cutlery to avoid guests having to reach out.

Lifestyle Hacks You’ll Find Useful:

✓ Clear out wardrobes and hooks in the hallway so guests’ coats, shoes, and bags don’t block the entrance.
✓ Hang a large mirror in the room where you're hosting guests to make the space appear larger.
✓ Remove doors from hinges and store under the bed—this will make your apartment feel much more spacious.
✓ Reduce radiator power and avoid using the stove while guests are in the house. Don't forget to ventilate! Otherwise, it gets uncomfortably hot quickly.
✓ Remove rugs to prevent people from tripping (and make post-party cleaning less of a chore).
✓ Plan in advance what you’ll talk about with guests to help create a relaxed atmosphere without needing a shared table.
✓ Prepare snacks in advance so the kitchen can be used as a chill-out zone instead of a cooking area. For drinks, set up a bar or sideboard in the living room to avoid walking to the kitchen for every new bottle. Provide buckets of ice for cooling.