Front Entrance Decorating Ideas

Your foyer, or front entrance, is the first thing most people see when they enter your home. This space should be decorated in the same style as the rest of your house, or at least the main living areas, to provide a natural flow and order in your home. The entrance should also be functional and meet the needs of you and your family. Does this Spark an idea?

Paint

Paint the walls in a color that complements the walls in adjoining rooms. Consider using the same color in a couple of shades darker to define the entryway's boundary without abruptly breaking up the space. Warm colors, such as brown, beige or yellow, typically feel more inviting than cooler tones.

Lighting

Lighting is important in any room in your home, including the foyer. For larger spaces, consider a grand chandelier that fits in with your decor style, such as contemporary, eclectic or traditional. Smaller foyers could make use of smaller chandeliers or wall sconces. Small floor lamps or table lamps would be appropriate in the front entryway, as long as they are not too large or small for the room.

Furniture

Any furniture you place in your front entrance should be on the same scale, or size, as the room. For example, a small sofa table would be lost in a large foyer just as an overstuffed chair would be overwhelming in a small entry. Opt for a piece of furniture that you need near the door, or a piece that you can utilize. For example, a bench with built-in storage compartments and hooks would make sense for a family with young children who need a place to put shoes, backpacks and coats when they come home. Common foyer furniture includes a sofa table, chair, bench or combination of those pieces.

The Walls

Hang something on the wall space, even if there isn't much there. Blank walls are uninviting and boring. Small candle holders or shelves work in small spaces and large artwork, mirrors or picture arrangements will help fill a large, empty surface. Place a mirror on a wall that reflects another room or decorative space rather than facing the door, which might reflect bright sunlight.

Finishing Touches

Finish your decorating project by adding a few accessories, or finishing touches. Small plants--silk is fine--or taller house trees (thin for small spaces) will help make your home seem alive and inviting. Lamps, candles, pictures, vases, urns, sculptures or any of your favorite decorative items can grace a table, shelves or the floor, depending on their size.