Unlocking the Secrets: The Art of Styling Your Entryway

First impressions are powerful. Your entryway is your home's first impression, a glimpse of what's to come. Your entryway is your “Welcome Home”. It is the first thing you and visitors will see when stepping inside. It’s the prologue to your home's story. It sets the tone of your home and creates the mood….

Your home’s entryway might be the smallest space in your house and seem tricky to style, but I’ll share some secrets with you that will help you create an entryway you love - and make it easier than you might think.

The Power of Lighting

Let's shed some light on the topic of lighting. Proper illumination is essential to set the mood and ambiance of your entryway. A stunning pendant light or an artistic wall sconce can instantly brighten the space and infuse it with warmth and hospitality.

But here's an additional tip: think beyond the ceiling light. Consider incorporating soft ambient lighting such as table lamps or elegant floor lamps. These added light sources not only help create a well-lit entryway but also add layers of coziness, making your space feel more like an extension of your home rather than just a passage.

Functional Furniture

A stylish storage bench seat can also be great option.

It can help keep clutter at bay and also provide a convenient spot to sit down and put on your boots. When it comes to functionality, storage takes centre stage. A console with a drawer can offer a spot for stashing those keys. Alex and Anastasia chose this beautiful console from ‘West Elm’ for their entryway.

ABOVE: These images are ones that inspired Alex and Anastasia’s entryway makeover - they are not my own. Many clients provide me with images they have sourced, to show me aspects they like.

Rugs: The Understated Heroes

Now, let's unravel the importance of rugs in entryway design. Rugs are the unsung heroes that anchor the entire space, offering colour and texture. When choosing a rug for your entryway, aim for the perfect balance between style and durability. Entryways are high-traffic areas, so your rug needs to withstand daily wear and tear while still looking fabulous. Choose a rug that is visually pleasing and easy to clean – a rug that can withstand the hustle and bustle of daily life and be a charming addition to your entryway.

Personal Touches

Your entryway provides a sneak peek into your life and your unique personality. Adding a statement piece is a fantastic starting point. It could be a beautifully crafted console table, adorned with cherished decorative items and family photos, or an ornate mirror that not only serves a practical purpose but also amplifies the aesthetics of your entryway. Consider choosing elements that speak to you personally, as they will express your unique personality.

Don't miss the opportunity to add personal touches that resonate with you and your family. Consider creating a gallery wall with your favourite artworks or showcase a collage of family photos. Display a little collection of seashells, pretty stones or feathers you collected on a memorable family holiday at the beach is another way to infuse your entryway with memories that tell your story.

Don't be afraid to let your interests and passions shine through as well. If you're a book lover, consider a small bookshelf with your favourite reads. It not only adds a personal touch but also communicates your interests and passions to anyone who enters your home. Anastasia and Alex display a loving couple figurine that is special to them.

Alex and Anastasia chose this rug from Miss Amara for their entryway.

Colours and Textures

If you're dealing with a smaller entryway, consider the magic of light, neutral colours. These hues create an illusion of space, making the area appear more open and inviting. Mirrors can also work wonders in such settings by reflecting light and enhancing the overall sense of spaciousness.

On the flip side, if you're blessed with a larger entryway, don't hesitate to experiment with bolder colours or rich textures. A statement wallpaper, a vibrant painting, or an intricate tile pattern on the floor can be absolute game-changers in transforming your entryway into a captivating and welcoming space.

Anastasia and Alex chose a mirror from Oz Design Furniture for their entryway. The added bonus of having a mirror in their entryway gave them the opportunity to check their outfit for the last time as they walked out the door.

BELOW: 1. Colour palette for Alex and Anastasia’s entryway 2. Artwork they chose from Etsy 3. Example of symmetry & balance - two chairs, two candelabras. Image taken by Nicole Franzen, by designers Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent.

Symmetry and Balance

Symmetry and balance are your secret weapons when it comes to styling your entryway. They create a sense of order and harmony that not only looks visually pleasing but also makes the space feel welcoming and organised.

If you have enough room, consider placing a pair of identical pieces – maybe two lamps, two small chairs, or two framed artworks – on either side of the entryway. This not only looks fantastic but also feels inviting. Symmetry allows your entryway to exude a sense of balance and harmony, setting a positive tone for anyone who steps through the door.

Seasonal Updates

Here's one final secret that many entryway stylists swear by – the power of seasonal updates. Your entryway can adapt and change with the seasons, giving it a fresh and dynamic look throughout the year.

With a few minor tweaks, you can usher in each season with style. Consider swapping out cushions on a storage bench seat, adding fresh seasonal flowers you love, changing the colour of your accent pieces, or display a different collection of cherished matching items. These small changes are not only fun and budget-friendly but also ensure that your entryway stays fresh and appealing all year round.

Final Thoughts

As you begin to style your entryway, remember that it's like crafting the opening chapter of a captivating story. It should make coming home a joy!  It should entice your family and friends – leaving them wanting more... and leave them with a lasting impression long after they wave goodbye. As you explore the world of entryway design, keep these tips in mind. They will guide you in unlocking the art of styling your entryway with confidence and your very own flair.

 The Great Reveal for Alex and Anastasia… BEFORE and AFTER

Alex and Anastasia were excited to receive their final Design Plan. Well done Alex and Anastasia for putting it into action - they did a wonderful job!

Want to find out how I can help you style your entryway? I do both On-site Styling and e-Design. Click here now to book your free 15-minute discovery call.

For more exciting furniture and décor options for your entryway, visit Essencia’s very own furniture and decor online store www. homebyessencia.com.au. At Home By Essencia you’ll find quality console tables and artwork and more for your own entryway space.