How To Decorate an Inviting Entryway

Each week Mansion Global tackles an interior design topic with an elite group of designers from around the world who work on luxury properties. This week we look at how to design an entryway.

There’s almost nothing more impactful than a first impression. You have one chance to get it right. And when it comes to your home, the minute you step through the doorway, your entryway sets the tone for the rest of your space.

The entryway  "should reflect the style of the rest of your space while also being warm and inviting," said Jeffrey Beers of Jeffrey Beers International in New York.

While this space might seem an afterthought, in fact, it should be anything but. Here are tips from the design pros to make your home’s entry a memorable one.

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Make the space a welcoming one

"When you return home, you want a functional and elegant space to put away your keys, keep your mail, and hang your jacket. I personally opt for a sleek console and either a modern armoire or a built-in hall closet with interesting detailing. If you have a narrow space, we suggest a slim and narrow console table. For a more modern and forward look, you can mount a statement stone ledge on the wall.

"You don’t want to clutter your entranceway with a storage unit. Your choice in furnishing should be elegant, warm, and inviting while being functional.

 "I’m not a fan of carpets. They can be cumbersome and obstruct the door from opening properly.

 "The color of the walls should be warm and inviting rather than sparse and modern. If you favor whites and neutrals, you can add a layer of materiality and warmth through textured wallcoverings. We often turn to Maya Romanoff for handmade wallcoverings. They have incredible textures to choose from such as woven fabric, veneer wood, and glass beads.

 "Emphasis on warm and accent lighting creates a rich and inviting environment. For a fresh approach, I prefer to invest in a striking piece of art and having it well-lit rather than opt for a chandelier in the entryway."

-Jeffrey Beers of Jeffrey Beers International Design in New York  

Define the area

"An entryway is… an opportunity to stand out as a principal design element.

"An entryway can also become a standalone feature. Consider adding surprising elements like fire features or statement pieces of art to set it apart from the rest of your space, especially if you’re working with a small nook or a loft-like apartment. Decorative screens are a good way to partition the area by adding definition and even privacy if you need it.

"It should still feel inviting. Opt for a subtle color palette with integrated lighting. If you have room, proper seating, such as a sofa or lounge chair creates a welcome feel.

"Integrated millwork or leather wrapped panels are subtle ways to add interest without overpowering the space."  

-Charles Allem principal of C.A.D International in Miami and New York

More:Click to read more design tips from designers who work on luxury properties

Add depth to the space

"An entryway creates the mood and the pace for the heart of the home, so making a grand impression is key.

"One of the best ways to decorate and set the space apart on arrival is through statement flooring, such as black-and-white marble or stone inlay. This is especially effective (and dramatic) for a narrow or awkward entryway, where there isn’t much room for furniture.

"Another way to add interest and depth, and make the area feel larger, is to use mirror-covered walls. These add layers of interest and opulence to the space. A bespoke chandelier will reflect beautifully and fit in any size space.

"The entrance needs to be practical but beautiful, so opt for furniture pieces that serve a purpose, such as elegant cubbies for shoe/slipper storage, a console table, or, space permitting, an ottoman for sitting on to remove shoes."

-Nicola Fontanella of Argent Design, based in London and Miami