Most of us do our best to keep our homes neat and tidy for unexpected visitors who like to drop in unannounced. But since we’re the ones who live in our respective homes, shouldn’t we make them our own and showcase our unique styles and interests? Your entryway, or foyer, is the first interior room your guests will see, yet it’s often the most neglected space in the home when it comes to appearance and general maintenance. Your entryway is what welcomes your guests into your home, and as such, it should set the tone for the rest of your house. Instead of continuing to overlook your drab entryway and foyer, let’s talk about some ways you can put your unique spin on this oft-neglected space and make it shine with your creative touch.

Add Some Color

The first thing I look for when I walk into a home is for color. It’s really easy as a homeowner to become content with white and off-white colors. Take a walk to your entryway and stare at the walls. Do they leave you wondering whether you’re at home or in a padded-walled room? Luckily, you aren’t in an insane asylum, but this blank look just might lead you there!

Providing your guests with their first insight into your home, your entryway should be a decorated and spunky area that catches the eye. When you’re considering paints for your entryway, try to select those that work well with the rest of the main congregating areas in your home, while also adding that much-needed “pop” you and your visitors will love. While most rooms in your home may have a unique color palette, these rooms need to bring you a sense of harmony and tranquility.

If you’re looking to add some pop to your entryway, take a look at vibrant accent colors rather than painting your entire entryway in a bright, bold color. Using an accent color will allow you to create your one-of-a-kind space while adding some zest to the space. If you do choose to go with an accent color, once you’ve chosen the right paint, you’ll be tasked with deciding upon a cool accent color design, such as dual horizontal stripes along the walls, or choosing a single wall to be covered in the accent color.

Light It Up!

You may overlook this aspect when thinking of your renovation, but did you know that one of the easiest and most effective ways you can add character to your entry way is through the lighting fixtures you choose to incorporate? Whether a small table lamp or a decorative colored-glass chandelier, how you decide to illuminate your entryway should add to the rest of the additions you make to the area. Wall sconces are a great way to add character to the entryway, while allowing you the opportunity to provide moderate lighting.

A hanging fixture is another great alternative light source that will add a sense of elegance to your entryway. If you don’t have the space for an accent table to place a lamp upon, hanging fixtures are a great way to brighten up your space. If you choose to go this route, make sure you hang the fixture low enough so that it’s in the guest’s line of sight as they enter your home. In general, you’ll want your fixtures about seven to nine feet above the floor, leaving you plenty of space to not run into the fixture, while still making it a centerpiece in your foyer.

Make Some Room

The other main thing most homeowners don’t take into consideration is the element of storage in the entryway. A bench with storage cubbies will provide you with a place to kick off your shoes after a long day at work and a place to store them so they don’t clutter your foyer. Another great decorative addition to consider is a hall tree. While you’re probably familiar with traditional hall trees, many of the newer models available include a bench with additional storage beneath the seat. Hall trees provide hooks for hanging items, storage bins for clutter, and many include a mirror, so you can always look your best.

However, if you have a smaller entryway, you probably don’t have the floor space to include larger furniture. If this is the case in your home, think about taking advantage of overhead storage. By installing fashionable hooks on your wall, you’ll not only provide a great place for you and your guests to hang their items, but you’ll also have a great piece of wall décor. Floating bookshelves are another great option that will give you the ability to add depth to your entryway while giving you a display case of sorts to showcase decorations and family mementos.

There are plenty of ways you can spice up your foyer without breaking the bank, and these are just the tip of the iceberg. As long as you stay true to yourself, you’re bound to end up with one heck of an entryway. Schedule some time to research just how you can add your personal touch to your space, and get started on your new entryway today!