"Treat it as its own room, not just a pass-through space. Add a rug, a chair or bench, a table with books, a candle, a plant, to make guests — and you — feel at home as soon as they walk in. These ideas will work even in a teeny-tiny little entryway." —Libby Langdon

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Media Platforms Design Team


Photo: David A. Land

1. Go for the Big Gesture
"In a large double-height foyer, add balance and drama by placing a sizable table or oversize mirror on one wall. Lots of small items can feel insignificant and cluttered, but one substantial item can anchor the design. If the mirror is tall and narrow on a wide wall, balance it with sconces on either side."

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2. Mirrors Work Magic
"Hang a mirror opposite your front door, and every time the door opens, it will reflect all that great natural light. At night, it will also reflect the artificial light from fixtures. Try a mirror with a pattern or grid overlay — it's more about adding a reflective, decorative element than being the kind of super-functional mirror you'd use in a bathroom."

3. Style It to Make It Feel Personal
"A console table with two levels or a shelf below allows you to display a few select items and fill in the open lower space. Here's a helpful trick: If you have an unsightly wall outlet there, a strategically placed tall vase will hide it in a split second!"

See More:
9 Brilliant Ideas for Your Bookshelves
A Two-Week Home Makeover
11 Design Problems Solved in 2 Sentences or Less