First Impressions

Now that we own a house (technically it's not ours until June 9th but the papers are signed so I figure I can call it ours) I need to organize and collect more inspirational photos for each room, starting with the foyer.  I've written before on why it's important to design this space but here is another reminder.  The foyer is the first impression of your home.  It tells your guests what to expect in the rest of the house.  It is your welcoming room.  Therefore you should spend just as much time designing it as any other space in the house. 

Points to consider when designing your foyer:

• Layout
• How much space is there? 
• Do you have room for a chair, bench and/or table?
• Mirrors!  It's your last opportunity to double check how you look before leaving the house.
• Lighting
• Is there a lot of natural light?
• If not, can you fit a table lamp?
• Do you still have the standard builder fixture? If so, it's time to replace it to something like a chandelier or a pendant.  The bottom of the fixture should be 7 feet from the floor providing enough clearance for any of your really tall friends. 
• Storage
• Do you have closets?
• If not, should you invest in armoires?
• Would coat hooks along the wall be sufficient?
• Do you require more storage?
• baskets/bins for hats and scarves.
• shoe racks
• Set the mood
• Scent is one of the keys to providing a good first impression. 
• Candles - light them before guests arrive.
• Fresh flowers - they look and smell good.
• Febreeze plug-ins also doe the trick.  Just be sure to hide them behind something.  They don't exactly look pretty.
• Architectural/Design Details
• Add crown mouldings, wainscoting, chair rails or paneling
• Paint - it will be a well used room so pick a durable paint.  If you prefer lighter colours (like me) then make sure you can wipe the walls down when they get dirty. 
• Wallpaper - if it's a small space then go bold.  It might be your one opportunity to pick more expensive designer paper. 
• Stencil - just another way to add character to a space.  I love the look of stencilled walls in a long hallway. 

Now for the fun part. Enjoy the pics!!

Decorpad

Decorpad

Domino

Decorpad

Source Unknown

Source Unknown

Habitually Chic

James Michael

Kids Stuff

Source Unknown

Southern Accents

Sarah Richardson

Thane Studios Interior Firm