Creating a welcoming entryway to your home is both an art and a science. It’s an art because it’s one of the few interior spaces you can almost exclusively design to please your senses, not just your logic. On the other hand, it’s a science because specific things about this space make it challenging to get right; and even trickier to style well. Fortunately, creating a beautiful entryway doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. Here are a few ways to brighten and add style to your home’s hallway.
Use unique lighting
Adding unique lighting to your hallway is one of the best ways to instantly transform it into an inviting space. Whether an ornamental chandelier or decorative wall lamps fitted with Edison bulbs, atmospheric and extravagant lighting can be a star in your home without actually costing you the earth. It can be subtle or show-stopping; whichever you decide on, it’ll make a bold statement.
Create an accent wall
An accent wall can do wonders to brighten up your entryway. With just one wall, you can alter the entire mood of the hallway from uninviting and bleak to warm and welcoming, all from one simple decorating job.
A simple application of wallpaper or creation of a gallery wall can create a huge impact. If the entrance area has stairs, you can use carpet stair runners to add a decorative touch.
Mix and match accessories
There are so many ways in which to present your hallway furniture. Mixing and matching can be an effortless way to create an impressive first impression. Place an antique console table against the wall and top it with a modern vase of flowers. Alternatively, lay a bright or patterned area rug on the floor and on top of it place a natural wooden shoe rack for storing your outdoor footwear.
Be minimal and clear
An important thing to remember when decorating an entryway is to try to keep it minimal. It can so easily become the place in the house that becomes a dumping ground for things – large and small. You and your family come through the door and immediately leave your coats, bags, keys, bicycles and packages just inside the front door. Think about the storage requirements you need to create in the space to try to keep it clear; the previously mentioned console table, coat rack, lidded storage boxes etc.
Go for a mini-exhibition
You don’t have to be an art enthusiast to wow your guests with a gallery wall. If it’s a compact area, installing a gallery wall can enhance the look of your hallway without taking up precious floor space.
In fact, hanging a few inexpensive prints or posters on your wall can create an instant centrepiece that needs no maintenance and can add colour and interest to the room.
Lay decorative tiles
Decorative flooring such as patterned encaustic floor tiles transform a boring entrance way. Choose between reclaimed antique tiles or examples that are currently being manufactured. Encaustic tiles beautiful to look at and are extremely hard-wearing and easy to clean – exactly what’s needed in the most high-traffic part of the home.
Use mirrors for a dramatic effect
Mirrors can play a crucial role in enhancing the look of a room. They’re especially useful when used in a hallway. By simply placing a mirror on the wall adjacent to the front door, the area instantly looks larger and brighter. The mirror bounces light around the room and gives the optical illusion of more space.
Enliven the hallway with plants and flowers
Pot plants & vases of flowers are great decorating options for hallways. They provide a relatively cheap and almost instant way of introducing colour, texture, scent and nature to your home. The houseplants you opt for will depend on the size of the space, the height of the ceiling, room temperature and amount of natural light it receives. If the ceilings are high, a tall palm or hanging baskets are ideal. If the room is warm & bright, succulents and cacti are perfect – and they require very little attention.
Install curtains or blinds
Like any other area of your home, curtains and blinds are installed to be functional and decorative at the same time. They provide privacy, especially if your house faces a busy street. They also help to regulate the temperature of your entranceway; They can stop draughts in the winter and keep out the heat in hot temperatures.
Conclusion
The entryway of your home is an oft-neglected space that few people think about. The foyer, vestibule, portico or hallway; whatever you call it, this common area is the first thing visitors see when they walk through your front door.
[disclosure*]
