Creating an Entertaining Space

Here is what the living room normally looks like. With this configuration, it seats six people comfortably.

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Here's another look at the room as it looks most of the year. The antique piano belonged to my parents and sadly it doesn't get played very much in our house. All those years of lessons were apparently a complete waste! Luckily it can play itself. :)

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The piano not only provides live music for parties but it also serves as the perfect serving station. (My mom would be horrified at what's become of her beloved piano!)

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When it comes to seating, I have three goals: 1) to provide as much as possible; 2) to create different conversation areas; and 3) to do all this while keeping the room balanced. Here, this ottoman was separated from the lounge chair and it's wide enough to seat two.

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By separating the chair and ottoman in a corner with a side table in between, it creates a great little conversation area.

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I also bring in these extra chairs which are normally in the dining room. I usually like to keep this area clear but it's a good way to expand the central seating area and accommodate more people.

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Here's another view of the chairs and as you can see, their backs are to the entry to the room. If you're struggling to add more seating, look for spaces like this where you normally wouldn't place furniture.

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The last piece I add to the room is this bench which is normally in the guest room. "Shop" your own home for small pieces like stools, benches and ottomans that can serve as seats. With items like these, I always like to add pillows for comfort.

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