About Entryway Decorations

The entryway in your home gives guests their first impression of the way you live and of who you are. For that reason, it's important for the decor in your entryway to represent your tastes, your interests and give people a sense of your personality. It doesn't take much to create a snapshot in the foyer of who lives in the house, if you just keep a few things in mind. Does this Spark an idea?

Types

Foyers and entryways come in all sizes, shapes and types. There are large front hall foyers that are almost like a small room separating the rooms on either side of them. There are entryways that are an extension of the hallway that leads to another part of the house. There are entries that are are simply a small square by the front door where you can wipe your feet. Some entryways in the back of the house are full-fledged mud rooms with plenty of storage for coats, hats and boots. Others are a door from the garage into the laundry room that leads into kitchen.

Function

The foyer, or entryway, gives all those who enter a chance to collect themselves before they enter a room where other guests are. They have an opportunity take off their wraps and boots and stow them in designated places, or hand them over to their hosts before entering the main part of the house. It also gives them a glimpse of what is yet to come, without rushing them into it headlong.

Furnishings

What you can place in an entryway depends entirely on its size. Some items can be functional, particularly if the entryway is not the home's main entry. But, functional items can be placed in the main entry, too, and look quite nice if selected with care. If there is no coat closet in your foyer or entry, a rack for coats and hats, particularly in winter or rainy weather is a convenience that can be placed in even the smallest of entryways. A board with wooden pegs will serve the purpose, as will a large antique or reproduction hall tree in a large foyer. Many hall trees are equipped with umbrella stands, but a freestanding one will work as well. A small rack for boots and shoes helps along with storage for hats, scarves and mittens. If you don't need the functionality, you can use the space you have to make a statement with a free standing sculpture or other display and art on the walls.

Effects

Some entryways have an exquisite chandelier as a focal point, along with an oriental rug over wood floors. Others are more simple, with a braided rug and country bench. Sometimes the home's stairway comes down into the foyer, providing a natural focal point for the entry. If there is a wall opposite the entry door, you can place a stunning piece of art on the wall, or even install a stained glass window if there is a light source behind it.

Considerations

While it's convenient for your entryway to be functional, try to keep it from becoming cluttered, or becoming the place where the family drops all their stuff when they come through the door. Remember that whatever is there, whether it's permanent decor or temporary clutter, is what your guests see first when they walk through the door. Look at your entry through the eyes of someone who has never visited you before and make certain you are making the impression you wish to make.