Energize your entryway with these easy additions
Make a good first impression with some simple tweaks to home’s high-traffic area
Everybody needs a good spot to make an entrance — cue your home’s entryway. The space also serves a very functional purpose as the place to remove shoes, set down keys and hang up a coat.
Think of your entry as your very own three-dimensional welcome mat. It’s well-travelled, but most people don’t spend much time there once inside. So how do you approach decorating an entryway that’s both traffic heavy and always moving? With high-impact decorative accents and well-appointed vignettes that say hello from the inside.
Whether your entry is a formal foyer or a modified mud room, it’s all about putting together furniture, decor, rugs and lighting that create a “wow” factor right when you walk in the front door. Upgrade your welcome mat Consider upgrading your welcome mat with an antique rug that sets a classic, worldly tone. But it’s not all fashion over function: the rug’s wellworn appeal will also keep the first few footsteps in the home from feeling too precious. Play with scale Large and oversize art always sets a chic tone. “It’s all about creating interesting vignettes while playing with scale,” designer Wendy Blackband says. Embrace fashion and function In any entryway, it’s important to lead guests in with a mix of interesting decor and design elements that extend floor to ceiling. “Anchor the smaller space with a rug that can handle the traffic and maintain its original charm for years to come,” designer Amanda Barnes suggests. Lighten up For a fashionable, quick fix in a small space, consider swapping out lighting — a chic chandelier or pendant light can be truly transformative without the risk of clutter. Step outside the ordinary Sometimes, the key to nailing a formal introduction is to be disarmingly charming. Entryways are no different; in a more formal foyer, try adding personality with unexpected art. Have a seat Benches and chairs provide a practical opportunity to sit down while putting on or taking off shoes. Entry seating can also be easily accessorized with throw pillows and plants. Time to reflect Mirrors can help make small spaces seem larger and with mirrors of all shapes and sizes available, there’s no shortage of opportunities for reflection. As well, it never hurts to take one last opportunity to ensure you look your best on your way out the door. Details speak volumes If less-is-more style is your thing, invest in a few small details. A console table is a classic choice for adorning an entryway with a surface area to set keys or mail.
“Always remember the rule of threes, especially for an entryway moment,” instructs designer Jenn Feldman. “An interesting lamp, catch-all tray and a floral arrangement; a sculptural object on a stack of books next to a photo frame.” Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.