As the old saying goes, you only have one chance to make a first impression. To guests, the first impression they have when they walk into your home is the foyer. Some homeowners may neglect their foyer because it is essentially just a place for people to enter a home, remove shoes and coats, and move on. When decorated properly, the foyer can make a lasting impact on you and your guests. Here are some do’s and don’ts when designing your foyer:
Do: Organize the area.
Are family members and guests taking off their shoes as soon as they walk in the house? If so, incorporate a basket or rack where the shoes can be placed out of the way. If left scattered on the ground, people can trip and fall. Plus, the overall appearance of scattered shoes will make your house look messy and cluttered. Implementing a simple shoe storage system can alleviate this problem!
Don’t: Fill the space with clutter.
Foyers can become a landing space for anything and everything- not just shoes and jackets, but backpacks, books, and mail can also quickly pile up in your entryway. Be mindful of your foyer and the items that are piling up within it. Give these objects a designated spot in your foyer (a coat rack for coats, a basket for mail and spare keys, etc.). If you can’t find a home for any items, remove them from your foyer to prevent the look of clutter.
Do: Play with color and lighting.
When someone enters your home, you want them to feel welcome and comfortable. According to the experts at Lynnwood, WA painters, light wall colors like pastels and neutrals can help convey these feelings. In addition, good lighting is key to make these colors pop. Table lamps, hanging lights or candlesticks work great in a foyer and can help create a warm and inviting entryway.
Don’t: Use white carpeting.
The foyer being the first room people enter, rain or shine. You never know what could be tracked in on a pair of shoes. For this reason, white carpets are a big “no” when it comes to foyers. The same can be said for white area rugs or floor runners. The potential for dirt and mud entering the home is too high to take this kind of risk – you’ll spend more time cleaning your foyer carpets than you’ll know!
Do: Hang meaningful photos or artwork.
Just because the foyer is a small space doesn’t mean it shouldn’t showcase the personal touches that make the rest of your home so special. Frame family photos, pictures from your travels, or your favorite artwork and hang them on the walls. If wall space is minimal, place them on a long table. This small but personal touch will create an welcoming platform that will entice your friends and family to enter your home.
Don’t: Hang a mirror opposite the door.
If you practice the art of feng shui, then you may already know not to hang a mirror opposite a door. It is said that hanging it across from the door can cause opportunities for your life to bounce back or out. However, mirrors do allow energy to move through the home, so they can be placed in a foyer. Hang a mirror along the hallway or above the small table that collects your mail and keys. This will give the illusion of a wider foyer and also appeal to the feng shui ideals.
Do: Install an interesting door or door knob.
Give your foyer some flair with a colorful door or intricate handle. A quirky doorknob is a great way to add character to your home. You can also paint your door an interesting color or give it some detailed trim work to make it stand out from other doors in your neighborhood. No matter which route you choose, either of these details will make your foyer more fun!
Don’t: Overfill the space.
Your foyer is a room that people are mainly just passing through, so there is no need to overfill it with personal decor. Minimalism is the best style for foyers. A few photos, paintings, or mirrors here and there will give your foyer some personality without it being overwhelming. Leave the intricate decor for the rest of your home.
A tidy space with beautifully painted walls and a few personal elements automatically invites your guests in for a friendly gathering. Designing a warm, welcoming foyer is simple with these tips.
