Ask the expert And lighting?
What’s your first consideration when planning a festive gathering? Seating is obviously key and depends on the size of the room and the number of guests, but, whenever possible, I opt for overscale armchairs and sofas to make a room feel more cohesive than it does when filled lots of little chairs. Even in a small room, a large L-shaped sofa can work well or choose a banquette with side tables at both ends and an ottoman in the middle to make a sociable arrangement in a slender space.
Unlike a coffee table, an ottoman offers useful extra seating; if it’s big enough, guests can sit on its four sides, which is very useful in the centre of a large room where the sofas are far apart.
What other items of furniture are useful?
Versatilty is key; a club fender around the fireplace is very useful, as are slipper chairs and a supply of pretty 1950s wicker chairs that can be pulled in when you need them. In addition, consider some upholstered cubes, which can be pushed under tables or out of the way when not in use. Other essential pieces include side tables for wine glasses and lamps mixed with decorative bits and bobs. I collect little striped glass bowls, so a few of those around the room, filled with delicious truffles or chocolate bites, always looks festive.
Are there any other accessories you consider vital? A couple of warm paisley or cashmere throws on the back of chairs and sofas are useful for friends who feel the cold.
Do you include flowers or plants?
A room without flowers and plants looks dead, so I always have at least five or six pots in every room. At this time of year, I like to have big bowls of azaleas, paperwhites and hyacinths—they always make me think of Christmas, as do generous bunches of mistletoe or a large glass vase filled with branches of red berries.
What about drinks?
People always gravitate towards the drinks table, so consider where to position it and how to create an easy flow around the room.
There is an argument for having it in the hall, so that guests take their drinks and then move into the sitting room.
I use lots of candles, in pretty colours. Their soft lighting instantly makes a room feel ready for a party. I like scented candles, so the house smells gorgeous as guests arrive.
Do you have a tree?
Yes, I pile some wrapped presents beneath it (even if they’re just empty boxes). They create an instant and evocative reminder of childhood Christmases.
Any last-minute preparations?
I set a silver tray with glasses and Champagne and light the fire and the candles so that the room feels friendly and cosy.