Welcome, Won't You Please Come In

I had completed a design & installation on an entryway for a client not too long ago and I wanted to share some of the photos I had just taken recently.  The client had never had an entryway/foyer before prior to this new home, so we basically started from scratch when designing this small space.  Unfortunately, I do not have BEFORE photos to show you, but here are the AFTER photos. 

The entryway is the first thing people see when they step through the front door so first impressions are very important.  It sets the tone for the rest of the home.

I believe that a space should be functional, as well as beautiful.  I like placing a dresser or console with drawers in the entry so that you can hide {and find} all the everyday clutter that always seems to accumulate like mail, keys, sunglasses, gloves, scarves, wallet, cell phone, kids toys...you know...the everyday stuff.

The client found this reclaimed pine dresser from HomeGoods.  She text me the day she found it and sent me a photo.  I told her BUY IT!  So glad she did.  I loved that it was open on the bottom.  It didn't feel so heavy and she was able to still stick a basket underneath for more storage.  Isn't she pretty?  Boy, what a deal!

I also like to place a mirror in the entryway.  It helps to reflect light and brightens up a space during the day.  It's also a good thing to have to check yourself before you walk out that door.  You never know especially if no one is around to tell you that you have food in between your teeth or something :)

The client found the driftwood mirror from Marshall's.  The mirror was heavy and such a substantial piece for this space.  Proportionally it fit the wall perfectly as did the dresser.

A bench is a necessity in this space.  You need somewhere to sit to put on or take off your shoes.  The client tells me her kids love this spot.  It's definitely more convenient then sitting on the floor or stairs.

This little bench was a great find from HomeGoods.  I absolutely love the nailhead trim and so did the client.  And these pillows were a great clearance deal.  We grabbed as many as we could find.  Again, HomeGoods.

This entryway is not so big.  We were trying to find a proper sized rug to fit this awkward shaped space.  We are still on the lookout but for now we found this cute rug/mat from Target.  Gotta love Target!  For now it works.

I also have to mention that we added crown molding as well as had it painted in this pretty neutral Benjamin Moore paint color.  We also had the ceiling painted white.  Goodbye builders chalky white paint!  What a difference the crown molding and paint did for this small space.

Thanks to Kevin & Charmaine Kane who I contracted to have the molding installed and the walls painted for this client.  They did an awesome job!  If you are in Central New Jersey and are looking for good, reliable contractors contact me and I will be happy to put you in contact with them. 

I created an entryway design board in this week's Design Board Monday Series.  If you missed it click here.  So, how is your entryway in it's current state?  Is it pretty and functional?  Is it in need of an update?  Or, are you happy with how it currently is?  Leave me a comment.  I would love to know.