How to Decorate Entrances

The entrance to your home can say a lot. A warm and welcoming entrance tells your guests to come in, sit awhile and enjoy themselves. A stark entrance tells visitors to get about their business and leave. A cluttered entrance tells guests that they may be welcomed, but you may not have gotten to the store to buy snacks and drinks for your visit. With a few simple decorative touches, though, you can transform your entry, making it one that conveys the message that you want to give your guests. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Add an entry rug. In addition to bringing color into the entrance of your home, a rug will catch the dirt on visitors' feet. Choose a rug that is made of durable fabric and is easy to clean. Pick a pattern and color that goes with the rest of your decor.

2

Put a small table by the entrance. If you have enough space, a small table can be used to display decorative objects or hold a bowl where you can toss your keys when you come home. A small table can also be used to hold a vase of fresh flowers. Hang a small mirror on the wall to further accessorize the area.

3

Place a potted plant in a corner. This will fill in any empty space and give the entrance more visual interest. If you do not have a green thumb, use a faux plant. Just dust the leaves regularly to keep it as real-looking as possible.

4

Add coat hooks near the door if you don't have a closet. If you have a formal entry, consider using ornamental hooks. If your home is more relaxed, use wooden hooks.

5

Add a bench if you live in a cold climate, and you don't wear shoes in your home during the winter. This allows visitors to sit while they take off their snow-covered or muddy boots and shoes. Have a basket nearby that contains warm slippers or footies in various sizes. Guests can slip these on and have warm, toasty feet while they visit.

6

Accessorize the outside of the door, as well. Set out a few flower pots to make visitors feel even more welcomed. It can also add to the curb appeal of your home. Consider putting out a new welcome mat, a copper mailbox or even decorative house numbers.