Unlike most households, there is always that unique challenge with apartment or condo-living urbanites to maximise every inch of space. Hence, there is a specific need to only keep the essentials stocked and keep decors as minimal as possible – from the number of glasses in your cupboard to the furniture you have on display. Beyond the decorations for this Yuletide season, a good match of chic and functional pieces will guarantee that you’ll host a successful dinner.

With the help of Crate and Barrel, here are our top picks that every luxury apartment or condo should have to be well equipped when hosting their holiday get-togethers:

IN THE KITCHEN

The Bar Cabinet 

Always keep your bar well stocked. At least have three to four bottles of wine, and at least eight glasses for wine, champagne and whiskey. A great bar cabinet like the Steamer Bar Cabinet allows you to keep your bar essentials and liquor while not taking up too much space.

A Holiday Wreath

Brighten up your dining space with a beautifully-designed wreathe. Make sure your guests get into the holiday spirit with the right touch of Christmas decor.  

Colourful Dinnerware

Don’t be afraid to add pops of colour to your table setting. Infuse a festive mood to your table with the Cirque dinnerware that’s very young and hip, while maintaining the top-notch quality.

A Sturdy Dining Table

Bonding with the family usually happens around the table, be it with a delectable meal shared daily or a fancy brunch during the weekend. Have a dining table that not only reflects your style, but also flexible enough to allow intimate meals or huge gatherings alike. It should be of high quality to be able to withstand the test of time.

Drinkware

If you want to serve exquisite drinks, make sure your drinkware is stylish and elegant to match. Plus, ensure that you use the correct one for every concoction you have in mind.

Neutral Dinnerware

Your dinnerware should properly complement your glassware. Get a set that will match your theme and is flexible enough to be used for any type of cuisine. Have a beautiful serving bowl for party foods like chips, popcorn, or candy. Copper bowls and serving plates add an elegant twist. Remember that a nicely plated dish makes a huge difference, so invest in some stunning pieces.

Good lighting

Don’t skimp on proper lighting. Choose an accent piece that will light up your condominium well and serve as a decorative fixture at the same time. Lighting plays an important role setting the ambience of your living space. A floor lamp makes for a chic statement while a head-turner chandelier or an industrial pendant bulb can be a good conversation piece.

THE LIVING ROOM

Pine Tree

Size doesn’t matter. Because a gigantic tree is not practical for a small space, a quaint pine tree on your side table will do the job. Adding greens infuses a feel of wintery holidays or endless summers.

Ottomans 

It is very common in Filipino tradition to move the conversation around from the dining area to the living room. A good ottoman virtually eliminates boundaries and permits guests to move freely and socialise around.

Room Divider

For practical reasons, most luxury condominium developers use an open plan layout. Create an illusion of distinct spaces with the Austin room divider. It has dual-purpose: as a divider and as a stylish storage for books, photographs and other fine home accessories.

Wall-Mounted Mirror

Perfect for the foyer or the living area, a wall-mounted Root mirror is a nice statement piece. It breaks the monotony of a plain wall and not to mention, a great conversation starter!

Floor Mirror

Make sure you look tip-top before rushing out the door with a full-body mirror. Invest in one that matches your home motif.

Throw pillows

Accentuate your living space with striking cushions that show your quirky side. A fancy furry one adds a whimsical touch while geometric patterns and suede are good neutrals.

Spacious sofa 

It is essential to have at least a three to four-seater couch in your living space. For frequent party hosts, the key is to have one with a timeless, versatile design with classic tones so that it goes well with any themed party, centerpiece or throw pillow.

GUEST BEDROOM 

Guest Storage Space 

This is perfect for your guest bedroom, especially when entertaining someone from abroad. The last thing you want is your guests scattering their things around the room due to lack of storage space.

Guest Bed

Don’t skimp on your guest’s comfort. Go for a spacious bed that will provide ample back support. Match this with a luxurious duvet or lavish blankets, this way you leave a good impression for those staying over.

Guestroom chair

Also a must-have in any guest bedroom is an accent chair that can be used to lounge while reading a book or lazing around. The Trevor Leather Chair is a great statement piece with a classic design, but still quaint enough as not to overpower the entire room or take too much space.

Daybed

Add a touch of effortless relaxation with this homey daybed -- a perfect nook for reading your favourite novel or  indulging in your latest TV obsession. 

Service Cabinet

Like any gracious host, it’s always best to have a service cabinet ready near the guest bath. Stocked  this with towels and toiletries that they can use. The Rojo Tall Cabinet is perfect for organising all your guest’s necessities.  

Crate & Barrel branches are at SM Mega Fashion Hall, SM Aura Premier and SM Makati. For more information, you may contact the branch nearest to you: SM Megamall 9420797, SM Makati 8342778, SM Aura 8932690.