holiday cocktails in 350 square feet
Natasha Habermann and Robert Habermann have one of the coolest small spaces in New York.
Published Dec 2, 2015 7:00 AM
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Natasha Habermann and Robert Habermann have one of the coolest small spaces in New York. They’ve maximized every inch without sacrificing style for even a moment. We were so inspired by their home for everyday living, we couldn’t help but wonder what it would be like to hang out there during the festive holiday season. Graciously, the Habermann’s invited us in for holiday cocktails (in 350 square feet)!
A midcentury plant stand takes on a whole new life as a bar. Stack with ice bucket, citrus, and barware so your guests can help themselves.
If you’re short on counter space, clear out a shelf and serve wine from there.
WHAT’S THE BIGGEST MYTH ABOUT ENTERTAINING IN A SMALL SPACE? (THAT YOU’RE CURRENTLY PROVING WRONG!) That it can’t be done and it’s uncomfortable! I knew I wanted to be able to cook and entertain in this apartment so I designed the space around those goals.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY OF ENTERTAINING IN YOUR HOME? The laughter!
WHAT IS ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’D GIVE TO ANYONE HOSTING A PARTY FOR THE HOLIDAYS IN A SMALL SPACE?
- Have everything prepared before your guest arrive. Don’t dare cook while people are there.
- Punch bowls are an amazing addition to any party, but particularly ones in a small space! Let mess and easy refills.
Maximize your surface area by placing a cutting board on your stovetop to serve food. We piled ours with baguette slices and seasoned olive oil. Set up a festive punch at one end and sprinkle in small bites along the rest of your counter top.
WHAT’S ONE STEP PEOPLE ENTERTAINING IN SMALL SPACES CAN TOTALLY SKIP? (COMPARED TO THOSE WITH LARGER HOMES) This is a tough one! I guess we skip a lot of surface level conversations? You get real deep when you have an intimate party. But also, excessive dishes.
Utilize every spare inch by setting up a large board or several smaller boards with your favorite assortment of cheeses and dried fruits for guests to snack on throughout the party.
Throw some tall seasonal branches in a vessel and layer it with candles and mirrors for more festive decor.
WHAT’S ONE STEP WE SHOULD NEVER SKIP? Greens & flowers.
Instead of closing off your bedroom, pile a bunch of pillows and blankets on your bed and use it as another space for guests to lounge.
WHAT IS ONE THING ENTERTAINING IN A SMALL SPACE HAS TAUGHT YOU? Plan ahead and make simple, delicious food!
PUNCH RECIPE
INGREDIENTS
- 1 bottle of prosecco
- 1 cup vodka
- 10 ounces 100% cranberry juice or more to taste!
- 10 ounces pomegranate seltzer or more to taste!
- 4 ounces rosemary simple syrup (1/2 cup water 1/2 cup sugar 4 sprigs rosemary)
- rosemary for decoration
INSTRUCTIONS In a large plastic bowl, combine seed and water. Freeze the night before party. (I would suggest making two of these). To assemble, place ice mold in a large bowl and add remaining ingredients. Enjoy!
