Ask the Designers: First (Home) Impressions Count
January 2024
When it comes to creating a welcoming entryway, first impressions really do count. Your entryway is the first thing that your guests will see, and it sets the tone for the rest of your home. There are many different ways to style and design your entryway. Laying out a large neutral area rug and then incorporating functional storage items or benches with fun accent decor is a great place to start. For seating and storage options, a modern entryway bench or a storage bench with drawers are great additions that serve multiple purposes without taking up too much space.
An entryway should be designed and styled to make it feel warm and inviting. Whether you have a grand entrance or a smaller foyer, simple furniture and design updates can make a big impact on your entryway. Here are some tips and tricks from our team of experienced designers to make the best first impression in your entryway.
Question: How can you create a welcoming entryway?
Designer:
Gabberts Senior Interior Designer
Lauradeen is an award-winning designer with over 25 years of experience, applying her proclivity for composition and engineering to masterfully unite design and function.
Answer:
A beautiful area rug can make a great statement piece for your entryway. Matching your rug size to your space is very important; it should be large enough to make your guests feel they can move into the space and are welcome. Next, add in some complementary artwork, seating, and lighting to give a welcoming first impression to your home.
Designer:
Gabberts Senior Interior Designer
George has over 30 years of interior design and home furnishings experience and has a great eye and passion for color when it comes to interior design.
Answer:
One of my favorite entrance designs is an elevator lobby for an upper end condominium. The design features walls, woodwork and the elevator door painted in a deep blue gray. I then hung a large ink drawing. The background was mostly white and black ink of a figure. It had bold strokes of the ink brush. A spot light from the ceiling really emphasized it. Stunning. The darkness of the lobby made the condo look very bright and light. You can create a similar aesthetic in your entrance by choosing a monochromatic, dark color palette; and a bold piece of artwork.
Designer:
Gabberts Interior Designer
Cindy feels the most important part of the design process is establishing a sound foundation from the beginning. She listens to her clients to reflect their personalities and lifestyle.
Answer:
There are a few pieces that I like to work into an entryway design. Having a bench to sit on welcomes your guests, and a wood console table to place your purse or keys down on in the entry also creates a welcoming touch! For decorative items, adding fresh flowers or a quality faux bouquet gives a touch of color and freshness to the space.
Designer:
Gabberts Senior Interior Designer
Lori creates beautiful, functional, and comfortable environments that reflect their point of view. Every project is unique, just like the client.
Answer:
For an entryway, I like to incorporate a place to sit, a bench or chair, for guests to remove boots and shoes; a lamp for soft light in the evening; as well as art to add color and set the tone for the rest of the home. Also, nothing says “welcome“ like fresh flowers on the entry table.
The first impression of your home starts in your entryway. Every entryway is unique due to different shapes, sizes and personal style preferences. Gather your favorite design tips, and update your entryway with the help of one of our designers–whether you wish to make a dark, bold and dramatic design statement, or create a light and welcoming entrance.
