With HDB BTOs, and condominiums getting smaller, living in a small apartment can be a challenge, especially when it comes to hosting guests.
It can be hard to know where to put everyone and how to make the space feel welcoming. However, with a little creativity and some thoughtful planning, it’s possible to host in a small apartment and create an enjoyable and comfortable experience for your guests.
Here are some tips for hosting in a small apartment.
1. Plan Ahead
Plan your menu and any activities in advance to ensure smooth execution
Consider the number of guests you’ll be hosting and what kind of event you’re having.
Will it be a sit-down dinner or a casual cocktail party? Once you have an idea of what you’re planning, you can start to think about how to arrange the space.
2. Clear The Clutter
Before your guests arrive, tidy up and declutter the main areas where you’ll be hosting.
Clearing unnecessary items can create the illusion of more space.
3. Create Seating Areas
To make the most of your space, create seating areas in different parts of the room. This will encourage your guests to move around and mingle.
Use furniture pieces such as ottomans, and benches (piano benches are great too) to create cozy seating areas.
With its gorgeous fluted panel exterior, our Gaia Shoe Storage Bench is movable and multi-purpose, great to be placed at the entryway or in the living room for guests.
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Gaia Shoe Storage Bench – Light$255.00 -
Gaia Shoe Storage Bench – Dark$255.00
4. Serve Food & Drinks Strategically
When serving food and drinks, think about the flow of the room.
Set up a separate area for drinks and snacks, by using a bar cart, side table, or a tiered trolley. This will keep the drinks out of the way and make the room feel more organized.
When more people are gathered, chances are your guests might end up standing or perching around the arm of a sofa. An appetizer plate just works better with finger foods layered strategically around the room.
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Scandinavian Adjustable Shelf TrolleyProduct on sale$98.00 – $118.00 -
Gaia Bar Cart With Detachable Tray$195.00 – $228.00 -
Exquisitely 3-Tier Snacks Platter$39.80 – $77.20 -
Versatile Trolley With Pegboard$85.00
5. Optimise Cutlery Storage
Keep the cutlery area easily accessible to guests.
If you’re serving a buffet-style meal, consider placing utensils in containers on the dining table, making it convenient for everyone to grab what they need without crowding the kitchen.
After the event, streamline cleanup by having designated areas or trash bags for dirty utensils, making it efficient to discard or wash them later. This prevents clutter in the kitchen sink area during the gathering.
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Modern Fruit & Snack Mini Fork (6pc Set)$12.80 -
Together Snacking Plates (8pc Set With Holder)$9.90 – $19.20
6. Use Vertical Space
In a small apartment, it’s important to use every inch of space you have.
Consider using shelves, hooks, trolleys, and other storage solutions to take advantage of your vertical space. This will free up floor space and make the room feel more open.
Tip: Create a bag drop zone using a coat rack and a large storage bin. Put it near the entryway where it will be out of the way from the main gathering area to free up space.
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Gaia Coat Stand$198.00 -
Canvas Storage Bin (With Handles)$12.50 – $46.70
7. Decorate Strategically
When it comes to decorating, be strategic. Use light-colored furniture and decor to make the room feel more open and airy.
Consider using mirrors to reflect light and create the illusion of more space. Use decorative pieces sparingly, so as not to overcrowd the room.
With some planning and creativity, it’s possible to create a welcoming and enjoyable experience for your guests.
Don’t stress yourself out over it and remember to have fun while preparing to host your friends and family over!
