Hosting outdoors in a city doesn’t require a full patio set—it just requires a little reframing. Start by treating seating as a flexible mix rather than one chair per guest. Pull out every ottoman, bench, crate, and sturdy planter ledge you already have, then add floor cushions, folded blankets, and a few cheap camping chairs. Ask friends to bring a folding chair if they can; most city dwellers have one tucked in a closet. Borrow from neighbors, too—people are usually happy to lend chairs for an evening.
Create zones instead of one big seated area: a standing cocktail corner near the drinks, a low picnic zone on a rug, and a couple of cozy clusters for people who really want to sit. Keep pathways clear so the space doesn’t feel cramped. If your party is long, don’t expect everyone to sit at once; plan for a relaxed open-house flow with snacks and activities that encourage mingling. For a sit-down meal, use a timed seating plan or keep the guest list smaller. Finally, lean into the urban outdoor vibe: string lights, cushions, music, and good food make people forgive a milk crate or two.