For extra seating, especially during the holidays, interior designer Brian Patrick Flynn often incorporates benches that serve as decoration most of the time, but can be pulled out to accommodate guests when entertaining, as seen in this living room.

Christina Wedge/Courtesy of Brian Patrick Flynn

Designer Kyle Schuneman shows party seating in a townhouse living room in Santa Monica, Calif. The cowhide ottoman functions normally as a coffee table but for parties the tray is removed for extra seating. The two Eames stools work well for impromptu seating and garden stool next to the chair can be used either as a seat or surface for drinks.

Joe Schmelzer /Courtesy of Kyle Schuneman