8 Ideas for a New Home Gift
Whether you love entertaining, have kids who always have friends over, or simply want a welcoming space to step into every day, revamping your entryway is the perfect way to start 2017. The entryway is where the interior of your home makes its first impression, so creating a livable and welcoming space is key. Here we’re discussing the five must-have—but often overlooked—details of creating a stellar entryway space.
An Area Rug
Area rugs in any part of the home lay down the foundation for good design, but this is especially true in your entryway. This space is the first glimpse of your personal style that guests see when they step into your home, so laying a fabulous foundation underfoot is essential! If you have a narrow entryway, a stunning runner in a fun pattern or interesting weave is sure to please. Have more room to play? Consider layering a hide over a jute or sisal rug for an instant dose of style.
Lots of Lighting
Lighting is essential in every room, but the entryway is where you can add in the awe factor. Yes, layers of fabulous lighting can get a little pricey, but it is so worth it. To start, find a chandelier or pendant fixture that sets the scene as your focal point. Next, add in a pair of table lamps perched on a nearby console. Lastly, if your entryway has room, consider installing recessed lighting leading to the next space in your home. The different layers of lighting create a warm and welcoming ambiance.
A Unique Piece
Now that you have coziness underfoot and lots of lighting above, it’s time to sprinkle in a little more of your personality. Entryways are generally dull areas because people don’t linger there as often as they do the living area or kitchen. However, adding in a bright and beautiful focal point, like a unique piece of art, a wall tapestry or a mirror, will have your guests admiring your beautiful entryway. Place the piece at eye level tucked between the two table lamps on a nearby console, and voila—a stylish statement in no time at all.
Some Seating
While most people don’t perch themselves in the entryway for the duration of their stay, having seating available is a good idea. Though it might be for fashion instead of function, having a stylish seating option near the front door lets your guests know there is ample room to kick up their feet should they need it. In the meantime, style your seating by placing a tray filled with books, accessories, candles and other items of interest atop its cushion and use it as a vignette until it’s needed again. Our favorite options include upholstered benches and ottomans featuring hidden storage.
A Drop Zone
While “drop zone” may not be a term you’re familiar with, the concept is something that we all need. Whether you’re entering or exiting your space, you will most likely reach for your phone (or the charger), your keys, your wallet and other knick-knacks that could come in handy throughout the day. For these miscellaneous, yet very important items, you’ll need a drop zone. On top of the nearby console table with the two table lamps and stunning statement art, add a set of trays, key holder, jar or stylish box to act as your drop zone, holding your nearest and dearest treasures until they need to be picked up or used again.
Are these five pieces in your entryway already? Which other essentials would you recommend for a stylish, welcoming space?
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