organic traditional entryway

Formal entryways (AKA foyers) can be tricky — they’re usually long and narrow and can have some limitations due to staircases and the curved walls or different wall heights that they come with. This client was having trouble with making her entryway feel warm and welcoming while still being practical and affordable.

Since the main entryway “space” is along a curved staircase and this is also where my client plans to put her Christmas tree, we had to keep in mind smaller pieces that could easily be moved around and stowed away for around the holidays (which are fast approaching it seems!).

The surrounding rooms have lots of neutrals with blues tied in so I wanted to keep the color palette in this main entryway space on the more neutral side so it didn’t try to compete with any of these other spaces in close proximity.

When sticking to a more neutral color palette, it’s important to up the texture factor! Both visual (i.e. patterns) and tactile (i.e. varying materials/finishes). We started with this area rug for by the front door to really set the tone and color palette for the space — not to mention, create that inviting feel! She also had beautiful tall ceilings here with a builder-grade single-light pendant that wasn’t doing much to show it all off — so by bringing in a more substantial chandelier to help fill in all that visual space/height, we’re able to create much more of a statement when you first walk in — as well as create some more light!

As for the “entryway space” itself over by the staircase, I opted for a smaller accent chair paired with an accent table and floor lamp for a pretty vignette. Top it all off with some framed wall art, a decorative throw pillow/blanket and decor pieces for the table and you have a look that says “welcome home!”.