The holiday season is one of the happiest times of the year – and the busiest! Quickly refreshing common area furniture can help make sure the community is ready for visiting family and friends, but with long lead times, that isn’t always possible.
That’s where Maxwell Thomas quick-ship furniture comes in. Our quick-ship selection ships within 15 business days, so you can prepare for get-togethers faster than ever.
Here’s how you can use quick-ship furnishings to create the ultimate conversational spots just in time for the holidays:
1. Focus on the layout
When considering the layout for common areas, keep two things in mind: flexibility and intimacy. Both are key to creating dynamic spaces that invite long-lasting conversations.
By switching up the layouts of lounges, you’ll provide an array of environments that can accommodate both large and small groups. Plus, unexpected arrangements – like four chairs situated around a coffee table – help keep things fresh.
The Montreal Coffee Table (pictured right) is the ideal centerpiece for a conversational space. It’s beautifully framed in solid wood, and easy-clean high-pressure laminate tops support a coaster-free environment. These tables – and the rest of our quick-ship collection – are built to last with high quality materials and durable manufacturing.
Small, intimate settings where residents and guests can sit face to face are important in creating a comfortable atmosphere that invites conversations. A grouping of high-back chairs is a great place for more private conversations as the height helps prevent unwanted eavesdropping.
2. Make it feel like home
Providing homelike lounges helps set the stage for cozy and engaging get-togethers. 
Start with comfortable quick-ship lounge seating, like the Elkhart Collection (Elkhart Lounge Chair Pictured Left). Its traditional style and rolled armrests are ideal for heart-to-heart chats. With our wide selection of fabrics, it’s easy to coordinate our quick-ship collections with your community’s aesthetic.
But furniture is just the foundation of the space. Add plenty of homey accessories, like artwork, lamps and pillows, to help make the area feel warm and residential.
3. Keep it high-end
It’s easy to achieve the high-end look you want with quick-ship furnishings. One way is to keep the furniture neutral and add bright pops of color and fun accessories to create an upscale feel. Or choose upscale lounge seating, like the 
Vidalia Collection (Vidalia Loveseat pictured right). Its sloped low-profile arms instantly add classy appeal while high-end seat cushions offer comfort and firmness for easy egress.
And when it comes to pulling out the holiday décor, remember that less is more. Stay away from kitschy decorations, and instead, think warm and residential. A simple garland along the fireplace mantel or beautiful centerpieces will do the trick.
Want more inspiration for a quick holiday refresh?