Right, so I’m on a mission! As a keen home entertainer (with varying degrees of success, I might add!), I’ve been researching how to really nail that effortless, adaptable space. And what better place to start than with the gorgeous orangery? I recently grabbed a cuppa with Alisha, who, let’s just say, knows a thing or two about transforming hers into a haven for any kind of gathering.
“Alisha, spill the beans! What’s the secret to making your orangery such a versatile entertaining space?” I asked, settling into her ridiculously comfy modular sofa (more on that later!).
“It’s all about flexibility, really,” she laughed. “Thinking about how the space can adapt to different scenarios. It’s not just about nice furniture, it’s about smart furniture.”
Modular Magic and Clever Seating:
The first thing I noticed in Alisha’s orangery was, as I said, this super-stylish sofa. But it wasn’t just a sofa. “It’s modular,” Alisha explained. “So, for a relaxed dinner party, we arrange it in a semi-circle, creating a cozy, conversational space. For a kids’ birthday, we can split it up into smaller seating areas, leaving plenty of floor space for games.”
This modularity is key. Think about investing in pieces that can be easily rearranged. Ottomans that double as coffee tables and extra seating, folding chairs that can be pulled out for larger gatherings, and even a portable bar trolley. The key is to assess how much space is available in the room, what other features there are already and what will fit in without blocking the light or views.
Storage Solutions: Hide the Clutter!
“Okay, so seating sorted. But what about all the stuff? You know, games, blankets, serving dishes…” I enquired, always thinking about the inevitable clutter.
Alisha pointed to some sleek, built-in storage units. “Storage is crucial! We’ve got hidden cupboards beneath the windows for board games and blankets. And that sideboard? It’s not just for show; it houses all our serving platters and glassware.”
Think vertical! Tall, narrow shelving units are a great way to maximise space without overwhelming the room. Baskets and boxes are your best friends for keeping smaller items organised and out of sight. This is especially true if the orangery has glass walls and all the internal elements are on display.
Lighting That Adapts to the Mood:
“Right, ambiance! How do you create the right vibe for different occasions?” I asked, picturing myself bathed in the soft glow of fairy lights.
“Lighting is everything!” Alisha agreed. “We have a combination of overhead lighting, dimmer switches, and strategically placed lamps. For dinner parties, we dim the overhead lights and use candles and fairy lights for a softer, more intimate feel. For family gatherings, we brighten things up with the overhead lights and lamps.”
Think about the different activities you’ll be doing in the orangery and adjust your lighting accordingly. String lights are great for creating a festive atmosphere, while task lighting is essential for reading or playing games. Try coloured bulbs for special occasions.
Entertaining All Ages:
Of course, the success of home entertaining is making sure that everyone has something to do, whether they are toddlers or grandparents.
This can be as simple as having a game table available where anyone can play games or having outdoor games available on the lawn if the weather is good.
The Key: Planning and Personalisation:
So, what’s the biggest takeaway from my chat with Alisha? It’s all about planning and personalisation. Think about how you want to use your orangery, what kind of gatherings you’ll be hosting, and what kind of atmosphere you want to create. Then, choose furniture and decor that reflect your personal style and meet your specific needs. By investing in multi-functional furniture, clever storage solutions, and adaptable lighting options, you can transform your orangery into the ultimate entertaining space for all ages. And, most importantly, have fun with it!
