First impressions matter. That’s why your foyer can’t be an overlooked space. While not every home has a formal grand foyer, every house does have an entrance. Whether you’re blessed with a full area designated for welcoming people or a simple hallway, there are room ideas and interior design tricks that can take any space and make it oh-so inviting.

Here are just a few to get you started. Plus, we’re sharing some design considerations to steer clear of so you can get the most out of your front entrance.

Tips for Foyer Design: The Do’s and Don’ts

Curious about what makes a foyer work? We’re here to demystify how to achieve the perfect foyer setup, from the front door to the floor and everything in between. Here are some entryway ideas, whether you have a small space or a massive one.

Do

Prioritize Lighting

The first step into your home shouldn’t feel like you’re entering a cave. Rather, focus on creating a welcoming atmosphere with adequate lighting. Use a combination of ambient, task and accent options. For example, consider a chandelier, wall sconce, pendant light or table lamp to create layers of fixtures for different times of day. For a small space, you may pick one or two of these.

Choose a Statement Piece

Whether this be a large, funky light fixture or artwork hung as a gallery wall, selecting a statement piece can give your guests something to look at right as they enter your home. This is also a way to establish your personal style from the get-go, creating a cohesive space throughout your entire house.

Use Durable Flooring

Your front entry gets a lot of foot traffic, so choose materials that can stand constant use, such as tiles, stone or hardwood. It’s also beneficial to consider adding a durable and stylish rug or runner to reduce the wear and tear of this part of your flooring.

Include Storage Solutions

If you have the room, your foyer can be a designated space for extra items that you don’t want to be thrown around your home, like shoes, winter gear or outside toys. A shoe rack, cubbies and coat hooks can take care of these items while an entryway table or built-in cabinet can store keys, mail and other small essentials. Using one or all of these storage solution options can clear up floor space, making sure you don’t trip on your way in or out the door.

Add Personal Touches

It may not be where you spend most of your time, but your foyer should still feel like part of your home. Add personal touches like a framed family photo on the wall or a door decoration that can make even a small entryway feel more comfortable and inviting.

Utilize Mirrors

Mirrors can make any room look larger and brighter by reflecting light. They also provide a spot for a last-minute appearance check. Hang a small wall mirror up by your door or prop a larger option against your wall.

Play With Color

If your home is neutral, then definitely match your foyer to this palette. However, if your home does include a few shades, don’t be afraid to include the color scheme in your entryway. This is a way to make the whole space cohesive rather than disjointed.

Incorporate Seating

Often, people are stopping to take off or put on their shoes in a foyer. Make people as comfortable as possible by putting a chair or bench by the door. If you opt for a multi-functional entryway bench, this piece could even double as storage.

Don’t

Overcrowd the Space

No space is complete without decor and furniture. However, some spaces can look cluttered and overwhelming with too many pieces. Not only is this a design faux pas but it’s also unsafe.
Based on the size of your foyer, use an appropriate amount of furniture to meet your needs without blocking the walkway or looking messy.

Forget About Functionality

In the process of redesigning your foyer, don’t forget the functionality of the space. Ensure there is a place for coats, umbrellas and other necessities that might be overlooked otherwise. While it may appear stunning, a room is pointless without meeting the practical needs of your family — especially for such an important storage room as this.

Neglect the Ceiling

While the ceiling might not be the first thing you look at when you come home, it shouldn’t be ignored. Beautiful crown molding can update any space for the better. If decorative ceiling pieces aren’t your style, try painting your ceiling a fun color or creating a border for a different look.

Skimp On Rug Padding

Every entryway should have a rug or runner to wipe your feet on — just don’t forget to put down a rug pad beforehand. This will keep the rug from slipping and sliding around the room and better protect the flooring below from scratching.

Block Natural Light

If you have a window in your foyer, take advantage of it for extra light. Don’t block it with tall furniture or big plants. Instead, put a mirror opposite of it to reflect light and hang up beautiful draperies to add to the visual interest of the space.

Large vs Small Foyer Spaces: What To Know

Juggling design trends and best practices for your space? Don’t make this process too difficult on yourself; just follow a few simple considerations based on your room’s size:

Large foyer space design tips

• Create zones.
• Use large-scale furniture.
• Incorporate statement lighting.
• Use rugs to define areas.
• Add large art and mirrors.

Small foyer space design tips

• Maximize vertical space.
• Opt for multi-functional furniture.
• Use a wall mirror.
• Keep it light.
• Simplify wall decor.
• Incorporate smart storage.
• Add vertical art.
• Choose proportional furniture.

General Considerations for Both Large and Small Foyers

No matter what size your entrance is, you should follow basic design principles to make the space as welcoming and functional as possible:

• Consistency is key: Ensure the foyer design is consistent with the overall style of your home.
• Ample lighting: Adequate lighting is crucial in both large and small foyers. If you don’t have a window by your door, ensure people can see what they’re doing or where they’re going when they enter.
• Maintain clear pathways: Regardless of size, your foyer should be functional. Include storage to keep the space tidy and ensure there’s always a clear path through the room.
• Personal aesthetic: Avoid using only generic or impersonal decor. Rather, infuse the space with items that reflect your unique style.
• Seasonal updates: As the weather outside changes, consider swapping decor elements to keep the space fresh and inviting.
• Sweet scents: Use a pleasant fragrance through candles or diffusers so your home will smell amazing right as you or your guests enter.
• Rotate art and accessories: To keep the room interesting, you can consider rotating decorative pieces periodically.

Decorating Den Interiors: Expert Help When and Where You Need It

Your foyer is one of those spaces that’s a bit tricky to get right. You want to balance functional and stunning design while still having enough space to get through the door, welcome people in or put on your shoes.

If you want help from an expert with your next home improvement project, Decorating Den Interiors is here to provide you with all the design assistance you need to turn your current foyer into a fab finished product.

Find your local interior designer to get started.