Please Come In

Occasionally I write blogs for my firms website about (shockingly) interior design related topics.

And as I was writing this one I thought it would be a great one to share with all of you

Your Home Entrance

That most important first impression often misses the mark

Your entry wall is your guests’ first impression and invitation into your home.  Your entry gives your guests’ the first visual and mental notion of what they will experience in your home.  It is the feeling that guests will carry into your entire space.  Therefore, you want your entry to really make a statement. 

However, contrary to belief, that statement does not have to be large and in-your-face.  You can make a very meaningful statement with a fresh and simple entry way.  There is a need to avoid overwhelming friends and family as soon as they walk in the door.  If they are forced to dodge large of items, it creates an uneasy feeling.  Clutter is a constant battle and is to be avoided.

There are a few basic elements that constitute a great entry way.  These parts and pieces are easy to build upon and can be interpreted based on your home, space and style.

(via Amanda Carol Interiors)
Common elements found in entry ways:

Console table/chest-with particular care taken with scale and balance

Mirror-to add reflective interest and depth

Artwork-to add texture and color to the space with frames often the focal point

Lamps/sconces-practical lighting adds drama, but careful with protruding shades

Coat rack-simple and functional, perhaps combined with a mirror

Small chair/pair of ottomans-to add texture and color to what is usually a mundane space

Wall paint color-entries have limited wall space so colors that pop can be striking without being over-powering

(Via Honey We're Home)

These items can be easily mixed and matched to fit the space you have, your taste and what works for your home.  Maybe you like to have a small chair or matching ottomans as an aid when you put on shoes.  Perhaps it works in your home to have a lamp on a table to switch on as you walk in the door.  Maybe a large mirror is perfect for your space so you can check your lipstick as you walk out the door. Maybe you have a very special piece of artwork that you want to proudly display for your guests- the entry is the one of the best places to incorporate any of these elements. 

Questions to ask yourself:

What is going on in your entry that you could change up to create a welcoming environment?  

 Is your entry a common and ordinary, or is it something special that you enjoy every day?

Is there a certain flair in your entry that is in keeping with your desire for style and beauty?

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What do you think?  Do you like these type of articles?

Have design questions? Shoot me an email!