As the festive season approaches, the art of hosting moves to the forefront. For many, the pressure to create a perfect event can be overwhelming, but according to leading Toronto designers, great entertaining is not about perfection. It's about crafting an environment of flow, comfort, and subtle design that makes guests feel instantly welcome and at ease.
The First Step: Intentional Editing
The secret to a successful gathering begins before the first guest arrives. Golara Ghasemi, Creative Director and Principal Designer of Toronto-based Studio Golara Design, emphasizes that her first act is always editing. "When I'm hosting, the first thing I do is edit the room," Ghasemi says. "Anything that interrupts movement or conversation gets temporarily removed."
This philosophy of creating clear, natural pathways is shared by Nathalia Hara, co-owner of One Group Design + Build. Her goal is to establish a natural flow that encourages easy socializing. "Non-essential pieces are replaced with groupings of furniture that bring chances for small moments to connect," Hara explains. This might mean breaking a large room into smaller conversational pockets with pairs of chairs or angling furniture to invite interaction.
Mastering Light and Atmosphere
Once the space is thoughtfully arranged, lighting becomes the crucial element that sets the mood. Ghasemi is a firm believer in the transformative power of soft illumination. "Soft lamps and candles change everything," she states. "The room feels intimate—even with a crowd."
This approach to lighting helps shift the focus from a perfectly styled room to a warmly inviting experience. The gentle glow encourages relaxation and connection, which is the ultimate goal of any gathering. Both designers agree that as the entertaining season arrives, swapping out lighter summer fabrics for richer textures like velvet or linen-wool blends, and adding sculptural candles or seasonal greenery, can instantly warm up a space.
Smart Solutions for Dynamic Gatherings
Effective hosting also requires adaptability. Hara highlights the value of multipurpose furnishings that allow a space to evolve throughout the evening. "Ottomans that double as extra seating, small nesting tables that slide beside chairs—those pieces make hosting effortless," she notes.
Ghasemi recommends using trays to streamline serving and clearing, keeping surfaces tidy and intentional. For the drink station, a key hub of any party, Hara advises creating a deliberate moment. "Use a console or sideboard rather than sacrificing counter space," she suggests. Styling it with a few beautiful glassware styles and standout bottles treats it as decor. For larger groups, passing drinks on a tray can maintain a smooth rhythm and prevent crowding.
In the end, both Toronto-based experts return to the core principle: intention over perfection. "Hosting isn't about perfection," Ghasemi concludes. "It's about creating flow, comfort, and connection. A room that feels easy and intentional sets the mood—and that's what makes a night unforgettable." By focusing on these subtle design moves, anyone can transform their home into the perfect backdrop for holiday cheer and meaningful conversation.
