For a standing event, cocktail reception, or networking gathering, allow 0.5 to 0.8 square meters of floor space per person. At 0.5 square meters, the space will be crowded but lively—ideal for a festive setting. At 0.8 square meters, there will be more room to move around comfortably.
This is the net space requirement per guest. Add to that the deductions for the bar, coat check, entrance, and technical equipment. A rule of thumb for the gross space requirement: net × 1.5. A cocktail party for 150 people therefore requires at least 115 m² of net space and about 175 m² of gross space.
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