I’m starting this story with full disclosure – my entrance way is a currently a disaster zone. We’re mid-reno, have chipped up the old tiles leaving a dusty landing, ripped carpet off the stairs revealing families of borer, and there’s no storage in sight resulting in a tumble of my kids’ shoes greeting you on arrival. BUT in my head I know what will make my entrance way amazing, and I’m so excited to tackle this unloved area.
The entrance way is a bit of a trickster. It makes you think it’s unimportant, because people pass through it all the time. But really, it’s totally jealous of your lounge, and wants some attention too. So it should! Your entrance way is like a business card for your home. It expresses your personality the instant people arrive, so have some fun with it!
Rock a coloured front door. If you have a small space you don’t have much opportunity for impact, so work what you’ve got. My front door is chartreuse yellow (a fancy term for mustard) and it makes me happy every time I approach.
Your entrance is the ideal spot to add impact with flooring. Statement flooring turns your entrance way into a real focal point, so lay patterned tiles, paint the floor, polish the wood, or simply place a colourful rug or runner. People are looking down to take their shoes off, so they may as well enjoy it.
I love entrance ways that are cosy and inviting, making you feel like you’ve had a hug before being released into the real world. Patterned or printed wallpaper, or paint in rich tones can achieve this. The colour helps define the space and make it feel like a room.
If you have a large space, go luxe with a statement chandelier or feature pendant, plus a standing floor lamp beside your console, and accent lighting over art. Candles and a table lamp are the perfect ways to give little spaces lovely layers of lighting.
Catering to people’s needs is a simple yet often overlooked entrance way solution. Console tables create storage, plus they add visual wow factor. Add a tray or bowl for keys, a lamp for soft light, and baskets for shoes underneath. Be wary of too much clutter though – your entrance way doesn’t need to be a dumping ground.
Art creates a focal point for the eye to rest when entering your home. Create a wall display that reflects who you are, whether it’s an incredible large-scale painting, a woven wall hanging, or a grouped gallery of personal photos. Get arty in unexpected places – this gorgeous green ceiling really does raise the roof.
Mirrors are interior designer’s best friends, because they reflect light, cleverly creating the illusion of space. They’re also gorgeous, and come in a range of designs to suit your style. Consider using a mirror instead of art if you have a small space.
Potted plants look right at home in an entrance way because they link the space to the outdoors. Choose a single statement potted plant or a grouping of three varying in height, texture and size.
Beautiful scents stop people in their tracks, make them smile, and put them at ease. Find a candle, diffuser or pot pourri you love (let’s bring back pot pourri, people) and let them work their magic on your guests’ senses.
A rug or floor runner adds texture and colour to the space, making it feel warm and inviting. Team one with a feature console and statement art for a ‘look at me!’ entrance way. If you have a bench seat, add a cushion or throw for lush layers.
Got stairs? If the space is plain, consider painting or tiling stair risers to add impact.
As spaces get smaller, people are maximising every nook they have. Get reunited with your stairwell, it misses you! Could it double as a library? Become a reading nook with a built-in window seat? Or can you fit an armchair, side table and houseplant to create a special spot?
Images courtesy of Your Home and Garden and Bauer Media.