Tips from Design Experts to Transform Your Space for Entertaining

Certainly, your home serves as your personal sanctuary, but sharing it with others can bring great joy. After putting in significant time and effort to adorn your home with the finest decor, you deserve to display it to friends and family on special occasions. Hosting a party is an excellent way to accomplish this, allowing you to showcase your space and hospitality skills all at once.

Whether you’re preparing a lavish multi-course meal or hosting a lively house party, entertaining is an ideal means to exhibit your home and hosting prowess. However, before you lay out the cheese board and open that special bottle of wine, it’s crucial to ensure that your home is ready for the festivities.

To assist you, 12 design experts have shared their recommendations for transforming your space into a perfect party venue. With a few quick tips, you’ll be well on your way to hosting the event of the year.

Go Green

“Nothing can transform a room quite like the presence of fresh flowers and greenery. Even a single bud in a delicate vase placed by the powder room sink can instantly create an intimate and special atmosphere. Whether it’s a handpicked bouquet from your garden or a vibrant arrangement from the local floral market, flowers can inject a burst of color and vitality to your dining table. Even placing sculptural fern fronds on an outdoor table for a barbecue can serve as a simple yet eye-catching way to add a touch of elegance to the party.” —Marie Flanigan, interior designer

“I find it immensely beneficial to purchase fresh flowers before hosting a gathering. They not only introduce texture, color, and delightful fragrances but also serve as a clever distraction from any clutter that you might not have had time to tidy up.” —Ashley Moore, founder and principal of Moore House Interiors

“My unconventional yet budget-friendly tip for preparing a space for entertaining is to place a small, fragrant flower arrangement in your bathroom. It’s a delightful and unexpected way to convey to your guests that you’ve gone the extra mile to make them feel welcome. A bud vase, holding just a few stems, works wonderfully for this purpose. For a more powerful fragrance, consider using tuberose, hyacinth, or paper whites.”

Prep For Extra Guests

“Make sure to provide additional seating options. Explore the versatility of your existing furniture pieces that can also serve as extra seating for your guests. Ottomans and spacious floor pillows are excellent choices that are both practical and space-efficient for your everyday life. What’s more, they can be conveniently stowed away when not in use, or, when required, they provide your guests with a comfortable spot to relax.”

Consistent Clean

“Maintaining a clean home is key for effortless entertaining. Tackle small cleaning tasks daily to ensure your space is always ready for those last-minute get-togethers.” —Danielle Rollins, interior designer

Tidy Up

Before a gathering, I ensure my home is tidy. I open the curtains, make the beds, and provide guest towels in the bathrooms. While absolute cleanliness is important, ensuring tidiness is the priority, as parties tend to make your space messier. Schedule a post-party cleaning to restore your home’s pristine condition and focus on creating a decluttered, inviting atmosphere.” —Jessica Davis, founder of Atelier Davis

Let There be Light

“We love to create ambiance with various levels of lighting during our parties. We dim or turn off overhead lights, opt for soft lamps, and set the mood with candles.” —Miriam Silver Verga, co-founder of Mimi & Hill

“Set out fresh votives with an extended burn time, ensuring they last throughout the entire party.” —Alison Pickart, interior designer

Terrific Table

“For me, the key to preparing for a party is perfecting the tablescape. Whether it’s a sit-down dinner, a cocktail soirée, or a spread of hors d’oeuvres, I adore eye-catching platters, unique serving utensils, and artistic dinnerware.” —Margaret Ash, interior designer

Rethink Your Room’s Layout

“Decorating to entertain is our motto at Society Social. Feel free to rearrange your space to better accommodate your guests. From shifting an entire living room for better flow to outdoor areas to using indoor furniture outdoors, and even disguising a bedroom for extra seating, get creative to ensure your guests feel welcome.” —Roxy Te, founder and creative director of Society Social

Keep it Cozy

“I aim to create a comfortable ambiance when entertaining. Utilizing my outdoor space by the beach, I provide ample throw blankets to keep guests cozy and warm. Throws instantly make guests feel at home, fostering a comfortable atmosphere for relaxation and conversation.” —Ariel Kaye, founder and CEO of Parachute

Bust the Beats

“Amid the frantic pre-party cleaning and hiding items meant for Goodwill, I always play music and place wine in a large bowl of ice. Chilled beverages add a festive touch to any gathering. For an extra touch of elegance, consider using pebbled or crushed ice.” —Kelley Mason, stylist at Lulu & Georgia