There’s nothing more wonderful than feeling welcomed when visiting friends and family. So why not style up the entryway of your home to instantly do it for you?
Get inspired by our smart tips to give your entry, (and guests) the attention and welcome they deserve.
MAKING A SMART ENTRANCE
Your front gate, front door and the entry leading up to your door, create a first impression and tell people about how you live.
Important elements such as a striking front door, a well-lit path, lush plantings and attractive outdoor furniture, all make a difference when creating an inviting space.
It’s also those little touches such as a place inside the door for guests to remove their shoes, an attractive umbrella stand, and proper storage that keeps the area clutter-free, which really helps to welcome guests with style.
FASHIONABLE FRONT DOORS
A stylish front door says so much about your home. If you’re after a fashionable door that makes a statement spruce up your tired old door with a fresh coat of paint. Adding a pop of colour to a door creates a wonderful focal point and gives your address instant street appeal. If you go for a high-gloss finish the look will be dramatic and luxurious. Whereas, if you lean to a more classic look then greys and whites are the order of the day. While you’re there don’t forget to update your door mat. A fresh plain or patterned mat with rubber backing works well, as long as it doesn’t distract too much from your exterior colour palette.
HANDLE IT WITH STYLE
The door handle is the first thing your guests touch when entering your home, so it pays to give it some proper thought. Create an attractive yet still functional entrance by investing in a brand new handle for your front door. There are a vast variety of styles you can choose including contemporary or classic door handles, or something bolder such as knobs and knockers in iron, brass, chrome and stainless steel. Always aim for a door handle that feels secure in your hand and has some weight to it.
LIGHTING YOUR ENTRYWAY
The main focus when lighting an entryway is to create enough light so you can easily find your keys and unlock the door. Lovely lighting also sets the tone when guests arrive and provides a warm welcome especially in the evenings.
When it comes to planning your lighting scheme, it’s important to think about proportion and positioning. Look at the space you’re working with and choose lighting that frames or highlights your entry and balances the look. You don’t want to have wall light fittings that are dwarfed by a large entrance or alternatively, overly large for the entrance. A good rule of thumb is to choose lights that measure about a quarter of the height of your doorway for a balanced look.
Decorative wall lanterns on either side of the front doors look great. Avoid a harsh glare by aiming your lights thoughtfully and choosing globes that shield harsh light.
Recessed step lights along the pathway is a lovely touch to guide the way, or a collection of hidden garden lights can also add enough lighting and a beautiful effect.
Hidden sensor lights to instantly illuminate the area on queue are not only handy, but also help to reduce your power bills.
FRIENDLY FOLIAGE
Nothing says “welcome” better than a collection of healthy lush plants. Avoid spiky or hard looking plants for your entryway. Instead choose soft round shapes that look generous and happy.
If your entryway is formal, position matching pots on either side of your front door to beautifully frame the space. For a more casual or sweet cottage look, arrange a collection of pots on one side of your entrance and add potted colour for extra personality.