Use restraint to make big statement in small space
Tiny entrance can be simple and elegant by using pieces with similar shapes
Q: My husband and I take possession this fall of a 1,450-square-foot, one-bedroom-plus-den condo. We are leaving a 4,000-square-foot family home, so you can imagine the challenges I’m dealing with. Having had a generously proportioned entry at the house we are leaving (complete with entry table and seating), I have no clue how to deal with an entrance that is nothing more than a coat closet and a six-foot wall before entering into our openconcept living space. Any help is appreciated.
A: I always make time and space for the downsizer because the design challenges condo dwellers (first-time or otherwise) face are plentiful.
In fact, I recently completed two projects that have small entryways, so I understand your predicament. Just because you’re limited in space, doesn’t mean you have to be limited in design. I’m sure you’re very familiar with the cliché “we only have one chance to make a first impression.” But it’s true.
I would almost bet that the photo I’ve selected is similar to your new entryway. There’s a wee wall upon entering the front door and I envision your closet (that I’m sure you will use to full capacity) across from it. This well-appointed entrance is designed by New York design firm GRADE (gradenyc.com) and though small on space is big on elegance. The designers chose a neutral grasscloth for the walls and then placed an interesting console and mirror on it. Nothing earth-shattering, but it’s the restrained touch the designers used that I am responding to.
Notice the ceiling fixture, mirror and console are all circular in form so the feel of this petite entrance is cohesive and calming. Both the console and chandelier are light and open because this entry would look completely different with a heavy wood chest and solid metal chandelier. The fact that we can see through both pieces to the grass cloth wallcovering makes the area appear much more spacious than it is.
I also appreciate how each of the three items is stand- alone beautiful in its own right. No one piece steals the show or pulls focus from the other because they are each so original. And all three of these items introduce the visitor to what is to come in the rest of the residence — quality.
Sometimes, the simplest design treatments are the most effective and often the hardest to achieve. Note the console isn’t cluttered with a lot of decorative items — one large orchid and a decorative box large enough to hold keys, gloves and the dog’s leash. Though I completely understand if you want to add a bench for seating below your console because sometimes practicality reigns supreme.
If you draw inspiration from this photo, not only will you create a modern cleanlined entrance for your everyday use but a polished first impression for your guests.