UPSTAIRS, DOWNSTAIRS

Bring it home

The entryway of a home is its first impression. What guests see here essentially sets the tone for the rest of the home.

While that makes it intimidating to decorate, the look and feel of an entryway boils down to one thing: it is the reflection of the homeowner. Whatever the homeowner wants to convey to their guests about their home should be represented in the entryway.

Some homes may not have entryways or front doors that open into hallways or reception areas. This does not mean an entrance hall cannot exist. Homeowners can shape their entrances using furniture pieces, plants and other decor, and aligning them in parallel fashion. This emulates an entrance space that the homeowner can then decorate.

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If the home is one of a family with children or perhaps extended family, an open space concept would fit the entryway. Instead of prominent tables, lamps and vases, the entryway can take on a vertical approach by decorating along the walls. Hanging photos, installing horizontal lights on the walls and positioning peg boards to hold appropriate items can free up space on the ground for more walking room.

Giving accessories a home adds style and makes them easy to find.

“Vertical storage, for example, can make a home feel taller while also reducing the amount of ground space taken up.”

Decorate rugs and storage can change an area visually into an entryway.

For a minimalist home that focuses on nature, guests can be greeted with plants and a pair of side tables to store items for on the go. A small bench would also be useful to situate yourself while putting on or taking off shoes. A mat in front of the door gives an inviting look.

An entryway can be decorated, from bold and patterned to simple and small. And while some concepts may suit some homeowners more than others, the entryway has practical functions that can benefit the rest of the home.

Vertical storage, for example, can make a home feel taller while also reducing the amount of ground space taken up. Putting a wall-connected hanger for backpacks above an end table maximizes the space, instead of separating those two components. A body-sized mirror with a hanging shelf just below it will be able to give a homeowner one last look at themselves before they exit their home. A floating shelf can be a catch-all for items needed when leaving the home, such as keys, wallet, or reminder notes.

Whatever the case, designing the entryway is entirely up the homeowner’s personality. The only incorrect way of decorating an entryway is if it does not represent the atmosphere of the rest of the home. p

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