A bare entryway gives off an unwelcoming vibe, but it’s easy to give guests a pleasant first impression when you take the time to decorate the space.
Adding storage, displaying art, and incorporating plants are just a few of the ways to make your entryway look welcoming. Here are five other ideas to consider:
1. Keep it Clean
Whether you have a mudroom, foyer, or front porch, creating an entryway that combines beauty and utility is easy. Just like any other room in your home, an inviting entryway reflects your style, and it can help set the tone for the rest of your space.
For a beautiful and functional entrance, consider a set of hooks or a storage bench to hold shoes, coats, and bags. If you have wall space, a mirror is a great way to brighten the area and gives guests a chance to check out their appearance.
If you don’t have a lot of wall space, a narrow shelf can hold shoes, hats, and scarves, as well as a few decorative items for an accent. Adding a touch of fragrance with candles, flowers or plug-ins can also make the area more welcoming and add a mood boost to your guests’ first impression of your home. Try citrus scents to feel invigorated, baking scents to feel cozy, or cinnamon to fight fatigue.
2. Keep it Organized
Your entryway sets the tone for how your guests will feel when they enter your home. Walking into a cluttered mess subconsciously adds stress while stepping into a clean, aesthetically pleasing, thoughtfully organized space whispers “relax”.
Make sure the first impression your guests have of your home is an inviting one by keeping your entryway well-organized. Start with a moisture-catching welcome mat to help thwart muddy footprints, then add a table that can serve as an easy-to-find catchall for keys and mail. A chest or dresser with drawers is ideal for tucking away things like gloves, hats and scarves.
If you have the space, add a chair or bench so guests can sit to put on their shoes. Finish the look by displaying framed photos of loved ones to showcase personal touches that will make your guests feel welcome and at home. Whether it’s an oversized mirror leaning against a wall or a rustic bench, adding a touch of texture instantly makes visitors feel at ease.
3. Keep it Beautiful
In addition to being functional, the entryway is a place that can show off your style. You can use the color of the walls as a starting point, or choose to accentuate texture with a variety of finishes. For example, using two different shades of paint or combining textures like shiplap paneling with natural wood floorboards adds depth to the space.
Embracing bold colors is a great way to bring personality into your entryway. For instance, a deep red can create a warm, welcoming vibe. You can also incorporate pops of color through the use of decorative pillows, rugs, and other items that are a unique nod to your taste and design style.
A large mirror can help make an entryway look bigger and more polished, especially when positioned above eye level. You can also add pretty wall art, a scented candle or diffuser, and a basket to hold keychains and other small objects. Adding a bench or settee for guests to sit on is another welcome touch that helps everyone feel at home.
4. Keep it Smelly
Your entryway sets the tone for how guests experience your home. It’s important that it reflects your personal style, welcomes you and your guests, and connects with the decor throughout the rest of the house.
Whether your entryway is grand, has a mudroom, or just opens into your front staircase, there are ways to add your signature touch. Start by removing any items that are no longer functional, such as a shoe rack and a coat closet, and make sure the piece of furniture you choose is scaled to fit the space well.
If possible, add a plant to your foyer. Not only does it look lovely and bring in natural light, but it can also help keep the air fresh. If you can’t have a real plant, try a small ceramic or glass one that requires little care. You can also add a scented candle or plug-in to the space to help mask unpleasant smells.
