Having a warm and inviting entry in your home, as the first impression for guests and to welcome you in as the homeowner is important.  You'll want to give this space special attention.  The design tips in this blog post are mainly for decorating, but would also work for staging a home to sell.

Reflect the Light

Mirrors can be used in the entry to reflect natural light back into the space.  You can create a dramatic effect with a tall standing mirror, or draw the eye to an entry wall and create a focal point.  Mirrors provide the opportunity to add style and character to the entry - there are so many different frame styles, colors, and materials.

Add a Table

Including a table in your entry helps to draw the eye to a focal point in the space and it serves as a place to catch small items like keys, a phone, etc.  What's great is there are so many different options here.  You could choose a console table, a sideboard, an end table, a dresser, or even a wall-mounted shelf!  It really depends on the size of the entry space and how much storage you need.

Bring the Outdoors In

Plants immediately bring life and beauty to a room.  What could make for a nicer transition from the outside to the inside than greenery or flowers?  No matter the size of your entry, you can always find a plant that works with the scale of your other pieces in the space.  I love using baskets as a decorative accent for plants to bring in additional texture.

Create Storage Space

If the storage space in your entry is lacking, create more of it with the pieces you bring in.  An entry table could serve as a place to store items like dog walking gear or scarves, hats, and gloves.  Alternatively, decorative baskets can be used to create more storage.  If you have space to sit down to put on shoes, a storage bench or stool is a great multi-functional piece to add to your entryway.

Upgrade the Lighting

In order to create that welcoming and warm feeling, you need an entry with sufficient lighting.  If you have an overhead light fixture in this space, consider upgrading to a fixture that makes a statement that will delight you upon entering the space.  You could also add lighting to your entry table with a table lamp or two.  You may also consider having sconces installed on your entry focal wall.

Add Personality

While you don't need many furnishings in an entry space, this doesn't mean you can't make a statement or infuse your personal style.  Kick up the drama on your focal entry wall with beautiful wallpaper.  Choose a table with material that ties in with the rest of the furnishings in your home.  Think about the smaller accents and details, like a unique planter or decorative hardware on your entry console table.  In the rendering of an entry styled for winter, you can see beautiful geometric details in the sideboard doors and a chinoiserie design on the base of the table lamps.  I just love the mix of styles and textures in this example.