How to host a chic festive gathering in your tiny London flat

Seriously lacking in square footage? Don’t have a dining room? You must be a Londoner. But after the 12 months we’ve had, some merriment is definitely in order: it’s time for a party. So hit up the Whatsapp group, or send that Paperless Post (if you’re feeling fancy) and get your crew round to your place.

But obviously the name of the game is chic and cosy, not cramped. So how to be the host with the most, without having any space? Here’s the brilliant advice we’ve gathered from some of London’s chicest interiors experts and foodies, to ensure your humble abode feels big on vibes this New Year’s.

First things first: ready the room. Obviously the kitchen is the go-to spot if you’re blessed with something larger than a galley space, and ideally with a table. If you’re not serving a roast and trimmings, though, then a buffet table and a few benches will make things casual yet finessed. Interior designer Isabella Worsley advises: “If you have a coffee table or ottoman, it is worth clearing off books and decorations, so that this can double up as extra seating.”

And if you don’t have a big enough table for your spread, try pushing together a couple of same-height tables and throwing a lovely table cloth on top to make things looks seamless. You could also use it disguise the top of a pop-up picnic table from your garden. We like this striped one from Amuse La Bouche (£25, amuselabouche.com) for a subtly festive feel. Linen is your go-to fabric, because who has time to iron?

Keeping the guest list small and intimate will make prep much easier to manage. Which, says Hannah, might mean being ruthless. Her rule of thumb? “Only be friends with three people at a time. When you make a new one, one of them has to go.”

The most important thing at any festive gathering? The drinks, of course. Especially if you don’t have a sit-down set-up, you’ll need a bar area as your focal point. A chic ice bucket such as Matilda Goad’s silver pear-shaped one (£165, matildagoad.com) and some fun glasses will impress. Anna + Nina’s colourful coupes and wine glasses won’t break the bank (£49.95 for a set of 5, anna-nina.nl).