I used to always tell my former design clients that the
entry of the home was a Homeowner’s
first chance of giving their guests an impression
of what “was to come” throughout their house.
Call it “setting the stage” if you will.
It’s funny, because now in my new job as a Realtor,
I still say the same thing to Owner’s who are
trying to sell their home.
Did you know that the National Association of Realtors
did a study and found that Buyers will form an impression
on a home within 10 seconds of pulling into the drive,
and within 5 seconds of walking inside the home.
5 seconds!!!!???
Well then, I guess your entry should make quite
the statement, huh? 🙂
While we may secretly long for something along
the lines of this….
…I must truly say that it is the smaller, more intimate
and personal entrys that peak my interest most.
and personal entrys that peak my interest most.
So – what must the entry exist of to be considered “welcoming?”
Plants? A Bench? A Chair? Baskets? A Table?
Maybe, all of these. But what I think it needs most of all
is the Homeowner’s Personality!
For instance, on one side of my entry I have an
On the other side, I have a small Bombay chest and
mirror (on my project list to be painted)
and a tabletop which changes with the seasons…
and my moods. *wink*
What does your entry say about you?
Does it speak of your style, your passion for
something you collect….or is it just a a catch-all of
book bags, toys and shoes like mine sometimes is. LOL
Here are some beautiful examples from my Pinterest
inspiration files for you to enjoy!
inspiration files for you to enjoy!
How beautiful is this mix of patterns?
Toile and Leopard print. Love.
Toile and Leopard print. Love.
More Chinese blue with beautiful millwork…
Love the red door and transom window.
Love the paneling details and brick floor!
A welcoming mix of antiques in warm, wood tones.
A beautiful statement to welcome your guests.
So, next time you come through your front door –
stop and ask yourself if that single space represents who
you are and they way your home is decorated.
Thanks for joining me as we “Make a Good Entry…”
In a few days, I will follow up with “Making a Good Exit…”
Shenita @ Embellishments by SLR says
Barb, this is a great post! I love tinkering with my entryway. I agree that it sets the tone for the rest of the home. I try to make it as welcoming as possible.
View Commentℳartina @ Northern Nesting says
Your so right Barb, it’s all about the first impression! Beautiful images. Can’t wait for your next post!
View CommentSally@Enlightenment for the Sleepy says
A beautiful post. We’ve finally tackled decorating our entryway after three years of white, white and stark white. It has made a huge difference. When you walk in the house it now feels like a home. We avoided it for so long because of the amount of work involved in a double height landing, but it was so worth it. I love the entryway with the red door although that is totally different to my entry!, hugs, Sally xxx
View CommentShirley@Housepitality Designs says
OK Barb..thanks for featuring my beautiful entry in the very first picture…LOL!!..I wish!!
You are absolutely right..your entry sets the stage..also I remember when I was looking for my first “already built home”..other than the curb appeal..I noticed the front door first..if it was clean and inviting, I moved forward and wondered what was behind that beautiful door….
Great post!! Loved it…
View CommentRamblings of a Southern Girl ~ Rhonda G says
Loving that bench in your entry way! Gorgeous, and interesting piece!
Great post!
View CommentAllyson Pecilunas says
I totally agree! I love entryways! I always have a hard time with mine, I want it to be as welcoming as possible.
View CommentKathysue says
could not agree more!! I love my entry and I think it totally tells the beginning of the story that is about to unfold, or at least I hope it does. You have been here so you are probably a better judge than myself, xo Kathysue
View CommentKathysue says
PS I did not get this by email, so your feedburner is probably not working.
View CommentKaren (Back Road Journal) says
A very interesting post. I have an antique pine chest with and a blue willow bowl to hold our keys. Hopefully our entry gives an insight of what guests will see in our 1730’s home.
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