First impressions are important so an entrance foyer often denotes the tone of the rest of the home. Size doesn’t actually matter, as the smallest space can be as unwelcoming as a large one. However, if you are keen to find ways to make your entrance foyer more fabulous then I have some ideas for you.
Image courtesy of Meredith Heron Design
Often, an entrance foyer will be used store coats, umbrellas and shoes of both guests and occupants as well as an area for display. These must work in harmony. Some foyers will have a ‘coat cupboard’, especially in older homes, so that’s a great way to hide potential clutter.
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If not, there are other options. Use coat stands, hooks and pegs for coats and umbrellas; shelves, baskets and boxes for shoes and scarves; and another flat surface for letters, keys and small objects. A window seat can also be used as extra storage or use overhead space for a storage cupboard. Designated spaces won’t make your entrance foyer appear cluttered.
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As a welcoming area, a small entrance foyer space can be painted in warm, dark tones. Very often a rich colour can convey a welcoming impression very effectively. Striped wallpaper will guide the eye upwards giving the impression of higher ceilings, as will the addition of a chair rail one third up from the floor.
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An entrance foyer is ideal for creating displays and vignettes giving guests a taste of your lifestyle and, perhaps, what to expect when entering further in to your home. Fun items like an antique convex mirror, suit of armour (a friend of mine had one hooked up to a speaker so it literally welcomed guests), a table display of object d’art, a massive basket of dried lavender or a collection of family photos, vintage signs or modern art may all indicate your originality and interests.
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Consider lighting. Is the space suitable for a chandelier, collection of pendant lights, wall sconces or flush down lights? Do you need a dimmer switch? Will you have a table lamp or candles to also welcome evening guests?
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Image courtesy of Alison Chandler Interior Design
If you don’t have an entrance foyer but want to ‘fake’ one, a console table, mirror and coat rack will suggest an entry area. Use the console table to feature a single dramatic piece, such as a rearing ceramic horse (my fave), or a vignette. You can also use this area as a plug-in station to recharge electronics you can grab as you leave for the day.
Conceal clutter with lidded boxes in coordinating shapes and colours to maintain order but still be useful for necessary items.
Image courtesy of Gibbons Fortman Associates
