When guests arrive at your home, the entryway is the first indoor space to greet them. As the initial glimpse to the decorating style found in the rest of the house, creating an inviting entryway is crucial. Outfitting this space is sometimes tricky because of small spaces and multiple doorways. Keep in mind these ideas for front door must-haves; it is easy to find them at any price to fit in any space.
Choose a Creative Wall Treatment to Greet Guests
A small space such as an entry is a great opportunity to experiment with bold walls, which provide a nice contrast to more neutral rooms adjacent to it. Try painting with a bright or dramatic color, hanging graphic patterned wallpaper or adding architectural interest with wainscoting.
Add Style With a Sturdy Rug
A rug is a vital piece for any entry since most dirt and debris tracked in from outside lands here. As family members and guests come inside a rug not only provides a place to wipe feet, it also gives a burst of pattern and color in a perfectly small dose. Whether the rug is a simple mat at the door or a runner spanning a long foyer, choose one in a substantial material, such as a natural material, and with a fun pattern such as chevron stripes or large flowers.
Maximize Front Door Storage Options
Storage is a key component to a functional entryway. One piece of furniture provides the most storage in a small area – a console. Depending on needs, this may be a simple table with a hidden drawer or a small chest with multiple compartments for organizing everyday and seasonal essentials. If there is no coat closet in the entry, a coat rack is also a good idea for collecting heavy cloaks and dripping jackets.
Use Multiple Light Sources in the Entry
When choosing lights for the entry, think of hanging fixtures and table lamps. A pendant lamp or chandelier is most common for this area, and there are many options to pick from to make a big style statement. A small table lamp for the console gives another opportunity to express personal taste, and it is easy to switch on for a welcoming nighttime glow.
Add Personality With Foyer Accessories
With the big decisions of entryway decorating made, accessorizing is the fun part. Look for these items to add a personal touch with personality: mirror, artwork, small tray or bowl, flowers and unexpected knick-knacks. These essential pieces can be found to fit every budget and decorating style.
Tips to Remember When Decorating an Entryway
As you follow these five tips to decorate an entryway, apply the following concepts throughout the decision-making process.
Function – Although the entryway is the first impression of the home, it also serves as a catchall for bags, keys, mail and kid stuff. Find items to store and organize these things as needed.
Style – Choose storage pieces and decorative items carefully. They are the first indication as to what to expect in the rest of the house.
Personality – The entryway is a small space, so keep it interesting with bold colors, graphic patterns or unexpected art.