Entryway furniture and entryway lighting are the first things that guests and visitors notice while entering your home. In a way, the entryway is a reflection of your home. Choosing the right furniture and lights and keeping these two in harmony with each other is important.
Entryway furniture should have enough space for your things and yet be small-scaled to keep an open pathway in the entryway. Multi-functional items like an upholstered bench with storage are a great idea. Entryway furniture should include items that would look after the needs of your guest when they enter. A stand or basket for umbrellas is a good idea along with a rack for coats and handbags. Opt for a couple of small chairs while choosing entryway furniture for those last minute conversations. They also offer you a cozy spot while sorting through mail or lacing up boots. Add shelf dividers and boxes in a freestanding cabinet for easy access and storage of coats, footwear, hats and umbrellas in your entryway.
Entryway lighting, like the furniture, can be simple and classic to complement the rest of your space. Select ceiling fixtures or semi-flush mounted light fixtures as the floor space can be limited in the foyer. These fixtures function as ambient lighting, casting a glow over the entire entryway. The entryway lighting should be ample but soft. Soft but adequate lights make the space look inviting and comfortable. Besides the ambient lighting, it's important to add task lighting by the seating. Table lamps or sconces work wonderfully as task fixtures in the entryway.
Complete your entryway decor with the right accessories that complement the furniture and light fixtures. Adding a mirror in your entryway creates a sense of space and lets your guests catch a glimpse of themselves before entering or leaving. Sconces on either side of the mirror help to accent it and function as task lights. Flowers from your garden, small potted decorative plants and wreaths are also great accessories for the entryway.
Another idea is to create an entryway photo gallery. Opt for photos of your family and friends in interesting frames along with artwork for the gallery. This helps you personalize your home and also makes your guests feel at home as soon as they enter. This is also a great conversation starter as every picture has a story of its own.
Design a welcoming entryway with these tips and ideas.