This ultra-smart seating arrangement is exemplified on Anne Hathaway's terrace – it's a designer-approved method that's just as perfect indoors

More often than not, the positioning of a sofa and chairs in a living room is a priority, and all for a good reason. This area is often the most social space in any home, but it's not the only area where people love to gather and entertain. It appears this isn't lost on Anne Hathaway.

The Devil Wears Prada actress has adopted the beloved 'conversational seating' method on the terrace of her former NY pied-à-terre, and it's a reminder of just how social outdoor spaces can be (yes, even in the fall and winter).

The conversational seating method is often associated with interior spaces, but Anne's terrace brings the teaching outdoors. Her outdoor love seat, coffee table, and accent chairs

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Designers have long practiced Anne Hathaway's technique, whether that's on a terrace or patio (like her), or indoors. Whether you're working indoors or outside, and no matter the size of your room, her look is easily replicable.

'I’m all about creating spaces that spark conversation, and how you arrange your seating can make a huge difference,' comments Lisa Hensby, the founder and creative director of Lisa Hensby Design & Build Studio.

'One of my go-to approaches is the conversational seating method. It’s all about arranging your furniture to encourage real connection – eye contact, easy body language, and that feeling of being drawn in. Instead of lining sofas up against the walls (which can create distance), conversational seating brings people together into a shared, welcoming space.'

Another way to perfect this method involves creating a U or L shape with your furniture, as Lisa expands.

'This naturally creates a focal point and helps everyone feel included in the conversation – no one’s twisting their neck to join in, and the flow feels effortless. It’s ideal for open-plan living areas where you want a sociable zone that still feels relaxed and spacious,' she says.

For small living rooms or patios, the power is in your accent chairs.

'Try placing two chairs slightly angled toward each other with a side table or floor lamp between them. It’s a setup that invites slower moments – whether it’s a morning coffee or a catch-up over wine, Lisa says. We're not about to argue with that.