This Simple Living Room Hack Is the Best Solution I’ve Seen for Hosting in a Small Space

As someone whose minuscule New York apartment can only fit a tiny bistro table, I’m overwhelmed by the mere thought of hosting any more than three people at a time — so much so that I essentially don’t host, because seating is so limited for dinners or parties. Recently, though, I came across a simple social media trick that can work in almost any small living room, and it essentially doubles the seating space, no massive dining table needed. 

DIYer Greer Gagnier, who runs the Instagram account @homeonbroad, demonstrated how she hosted 14 people this past Thanksgiving without a dining room. She already had banquette-style seating in a corner of her living room, which she arranged into one long sofa against a wall, and then sidled two long, skinny card tables up to it. Gagnier disguised these with pretty tablecloths and filled in the three remaining sides of the tables with extra dining chairs — and that’s it! 

Gagnier’s home admittedly looks fairly sizable, but you can still easily re-create this hosting hack with your existing sofa, regardless of living room size. Simply move your coffee table out of the way, if possible, and swap it with a folding table or two. Amazon carries a handful of sizes starting around $40, whether you need something smaller-scale to pair with a love seat or sectional, or a slightly longer buffet table like Gagnier’s.

Don’t stress if you‘re short on extra dining chairs, either. Stock up on a few affordable stackable stools instead. IKEA’s $16 KYRRE is especially perfect for having year-round, even as a temporary plant stand or side table. Otherwise, keep three or four tucked away in any accessible corner until you need more seating. 

Whether you’re planning an upcoming holiday party or just want the opportunity to host more often, consider this simple living room redecorating trick. You can stuff the folding table(s) in a closet or under the bed when not in use (I currently have one in the back of my coat closet that takes up minimal room), and any tablecloth design will add the final guest-approved touch.