8 Easy Interiors Uplifts To Try When Hosting Guests
While it can be tempting to do a last-minute interiors overhaul when hosting season comes around and you have a roll call of guests arriving, there are lots of more simple ways to spruce up your home and make it feel inviting without exhausting yourself in the process. Here, four designers share their best advice for when the doorbell is about to ring. By KATIE BERRINGTON
Begin with the little things
“It’s the little touches that go a long way in a guest room – fluffing the pillows and neatly folding a throw at the foot of the bed for a boutique feel,” suggests interior designer Linda Boronkay. “Add fresh flowers in a beautiful vase, a stack of intriguing books, or a handwritten welcome note. Lastly, fill the room with a gorgeous, calming fragrance, whether that be with a scent diffuser, linen spray or candle.”
Upgrade the bathroom
“I put soft, neutral-colored towels in the bathroom and always ensure the hand soap and lotion are topped up in chic dispensers, then I complete the space with a small plant or a single stem in a vase,” Boronkay adds. “These small but thoughtful touches all help to create a welcome feel for your guests.”
“Little touches go a long way… Fill the room with a gorgeous, calming fragrance, whether that be with a scent diffuser, linen spray or candle
”Linda Boronkay
Tell a story with tableware
“For the dining table, I always start with a tablecloth with a story,” says architect Na Li. “A vibrant, high-contrast design not only elevates the tablescape but also serves as an instant conversation-starter for guests. When it comes to other table adornments, I recommend experimenting with varying heights and textures, layering eclectic accessories to create an added element of interest.”
Create a stylish gathering point
“In the living space, we like to style a coffee table as a hub for pre- and post-party moments,” Li adds. “A standout piece, like a vintage marble slab tray, can instantly transform it into a celebratory focal point.”
Set the mood with candles
“Setting the mood from the moment your guests arrive is essential. The best way to achieve this is through soft, ambient lighting and an abundance of candles,” says interior designer Tatjana von Stein. “Personally, I’m obsessed by the charm of candles as decorative objects and I have a collection of holders. Scent is also really important and can immediately elevate the atmosphere.”
Maximize the festive decor
“I always think it’s best to go to town with festive decorations. I have some that I love so much, I’m always tempted to leave them out all year round,” shares designer Hollie Bowden. “I often put a wreath from floral designer Kitten Grayson on my front door, and sometimes make my own wreath, too, and I have festive garlands strung around the house.”
Don’t forget about gifts
For a beautiful finishing touch, “find the perfect wrapping paper,” says Bowden. “This year I bought mine from London’s Camden Arts Centre. Nicely wrapped presents always make the Christmas tree look even more special.”
Make it mulled
Lastly, Bowden believes that something warming and tantalizing on the stove is by far the best greeting for guests. “I love serving something mulled at Christmas. I recently hosted a Christmas party and served Showerings Cider, which is so delicious and very festive. I also love serving homemade mulled sloe gin; it’s something my mother has always done and it goes down a treat.”