Your front entrance is the first thing people see when they visit your home. It’s a place to greet family and friends, to put on your coat as you leave for a night out, and to welcome you home after a long day at work. Your entryway not only sets the tone for the rest of your home’s design, it also has a lot of responsibility for a (usually) small space. How can you make your front entrance better?
Storage
One big problem of a typical entryway? Clutter! With shoes, keys, bags, jackets, and other accessories that you need to leave the house, it’s no wonder that there’s a lot of strain on what’s often a small space. Therefore it’s important to think storage when coming up with your entrance design plans. Units that combine seating and additional space - like storage benches and ottomans - are wonderful options. Baskets, hooks, and cubbies are also practical ideas that can be made to complement the look of your home.
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Seating
A place to sit while you put your shoes on (or take them off) is a necessity. However, the style of seating that you choose can set the tone for your whole front entrance, as you welcome visitors into your space. Whether you decide on a rustic wooden bench, or an upholstered settee, it’s important to have fun with this must-have entryway feature.
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A Good Mat
When it comes to decorating your front entrance, don’t skimp when it comes to your doormat. Choosing a quality mat for your home will help trap more dirt and potentially help keep your home a little cleaner. With plenty of options available today, it should be relatively easy to find a doormat that is both durable, and design friendly.
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Lighting
Proper lighting is always essential, and your entryway is no exception. A well lit home is more inviting and cheery as you welcome visitors into your space. When it comes to choosing the lighting for your front entrance, anything goes - from overhead fixtures and chandeliers, to wall sconces or table lamps. Just be sure to choose a style that complements your home’s design.
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Mirror
A mirror not only adds to the overall design of your entryway, it also offers a functional purpose as well - giving you one last look at yourself before you leave the house. The design of your space will dictate the type of mirror that you choose. If wall space is limited, consider adding a long mirror to the inside of your closet door. That way you still get the benefit of a mirror, even if you don’t have a place for a big style statement.
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A Sense of Style
A well-decorated entryway helps set the tone for visitors as they step into your home. While it’s important to use visual cues to set your entrance apart from the rest of the house, you don’t want it looking too different either. A furniture piece can help to guide traffic through your space, and also show off photos and other accessories that echo your home’s overall look.
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Customizable Features
The needs of your entryway can change significantly from season to season. For example, you may need more storage in winter for heavy winter coats and accessories, as well as a durable mat to keep the snow and salt from making its way through your home. Therefore at the start of each season, take a minute to evaluate your entrance to ensure the space is ready to meet the needs of your family for the coming months.
