Even though they only occupy a minor area in your home, entrance halls actually have a really big part to play. Not only is this a space where you shake off the outside world before you relax at home, it is also what gives your guest their first impression of your home. So how do you create a hallway that is both functional and impressive? We show you how.
- Get comfortable with a settee
No matter the size, layout or design, the purpose of entrance halls are always the same across the board. This is where you’ll take off or put on your shoes when you’re coming back or leaving your home. As such, why not make things more comfortable for you and your guests by arranging a place to sit along your entryway? This can be easily done by asking your contractor to carve out a settee within your shoe cabinet, if you have one within the same space. Otherwise, you can get creative by upcycling a vintage trunk or a chest, or by simply placing a bench along the way. Be mindful not to use bulky furniture pieces though, for you wouldn’t want to take up unnecessary floor space.
Image credit: Studio FortyFour
- Add decor that shows off your personality
As with the rest of your home, your entryway also deserves to be dressed up with personalised decor and other of your favourite knick-knacks. Although most often accommodated on the walls, you can also go ahead to place such decorative items on the floor, provided you have ample floor space of course. And don’t be afraid to get creative! Whether in the form of decorative figurines or a photo gallery, accent wallpaper or an abstract painting, the options are endless. - Stay clutter-free with ample storage
The entryway is the one space in your home that will see the highest amount of foot traffic passing through, and as such, it is necessary to have an unobstructed passage through as much as possible. And the key to a clutter-free entrance is by having ample storage units. Because of the entryway’s narrow nature, multi-purpose fittings would serve the best purpose. For example, built-in closets with a recessed niche in the middle can double up as a landing strip for your keys and wallets, ensuring that your entryway will always be kept neat and tidy while keeping your personal belongings on hand.
Image credit: Muuto
- Set the mood with lighting
This is not an issue during the day, but to avoid coming home to a pitch-black home at night, you will need to make sure that the entrance is well-lit. Whether you choose to use down lights or wall sconces, you don’t have to leave them on throughout the day. Just be sure to place the light switch right next to the door so that you can quickly light up your space. Besides generally illuminating the entrance hall, you can also install spotlights that highlight the main accents in the space, such as the landing strip console where you keep your personal belongings or the settee where you put on your shoes. - Freshen up with some greenery
No matter which area they are placed in, plants have the innate ability to bring life to any space with their refreshing look and oxygen-producing qualities. Especially after coming home from a long day at work, having these green elements greet you upon entering into your abode can instantly lift your mood. If space is a concern, limit fresh flowers or houseplants to only being on your landing strip console table. Otherwise, you can even go as far as to purchase a large potted plant to stand right by the door.
Image credit: We Are Scout
