A homes entrance is more than just a place to throw shoes, mail and car keys, it’s a transit zone between inside and out – a space that allows a change of gears from the hustle and bustle of a busy life and sink into the comfort and seclusion of home.
It’s the first room our friends and family see when they come to visit, the first room potential buyers see, the room we leave and enter by every single day, so creating a welcoming and also useful area, is an absolute must.
Entrances come in all shapes and sizes, some are entirely separate rooms, others enter straight into the lounge room, and others still are merely hallways with doors leading off to various rooms.
No matter what the shape or style, a positive, welcoming, and lasting impression is totally possible.
So much more than just a fancy welcome mat, the entrance can be anything you want it to be, reflecting the personality and the lives of those that live there. Think of it as the first chapter of a book- if you like the first page, chances are you’ll keep reading.
A beautiful entrance before you even enter 24 Swanson St, Weston
So, how do we make an impact with an entrance?
- Start before it starts.
That is, look at what is happening before the door is even opened.
Tidy up the front verandah or doorstep. A plant or a pair of welcoming chairs will begin the journey beautifully.
Can you make an impact with your front door? Not in the budget to purchase new? Paint the old with a bold gloss colour- gorgeous!
A wonderful entrance to this character home with its glossy green front door 15 Petersham St, Petersham\
2. Keep it neat
As the landing place for kids, guests and even pets, it’s all too easy to let piles stack up and the clutter to take over.
For the mail, key and sunglass drop zone, a hall table with drawers or a bowl will help keep these items from looking messy.
A few coat hooks will keep the children’s school bags- and your own- off the floor. These are great for hats and coats as well. Be creative with your coat hooks, they can be their very own design feature.
If you tend to take off shoes on entering, have a good looking basket or cupboard nearby to stash them.
3. Take a seat
If you have the room available, a seat is a great addition to the hallway.
If your entrance is part of the home itself, such as the lounge room, a comfortable chair with side table can create a separate zone to delineate the area.
4. Light it up
No matter what the size of your entrance lighting can make all the difference. Generally not a space that gets a huge amount of natural light, a good strong lamp or hanging light will add personality and much needed brightness
5. Reflection
A statement mirror will not only reflect light, but it will create a sense of space and also be a great personal check point before you leave the home- hair in place, t-shirt not back to front, two matching shoes…check.
Light and bright and all reflected with a stunning mirror 24 Wunda Rd, Mosman
6. Rugs and runners
If your entrance is a hallway, having a hall runner is great way of leading your guests through and into the heart of the home. It also warms what can be a long, empty space.
Small entrance rugs can define the space and add warmth and colour, creating a much more welcoming environment.
Hat drop and hallway runner – a winning combination 35 Smith St, Manly
7. Candle power
Make your home not only look and feel great, but smell gorgeous! Keep a scented candle in the entrance for not only special occasions but for every day yumminess.
How are you going to make an entrance with your entrance?