How to Decorate a Narrow Foyer

Your foyer is the first and last thing guests see when they enter and leave your home. The foyer should function the way your family needs it to, as well as welcome guests into your personal space. Decorate a narrow foyer to give it some personality and purpose. Use the colors and style of the decor in the surrounding rooms for a cohesive look, while adding something extra to give the foyer its own identity. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Paint the walls a light, cool color that gives the narrow foyer an airy and open feel, such as white, cream, light blue, gray or green. Wallpaper with a vertical design, such as a tone-on-tone yellow striped pattern, is another option. Use the main colors found throughout your home as a guide in selecting your foyer color so it doesn't clash with the rest of your home.

2

Position a single piece of furniture in the foyer if you like the idea of something extra. Avoid bulky furniture, as it will make the foyer feel smaller and claustrophobic. A single slender sofa table, bench, chair or pedestal will serve the space. A glass or clear table will appear to take up even less room, while providing a space for decorative objects.

3

Create an interesting design using tile or wood planks on the floor. If new flooring isn't an option, lay a decorative runner in the foyer.

4

Add some drama or interest to the foyer with a decorative chandelier or wall sconces. An unusual light fixture can set the decorative tone for the foyer, as well as provide additional light.

5

Hang decorative artwork, photographs or floating shelves on the wall. Avoid hanging pictures or artwork on both walls if the foyer is closed in, as that will box in the space even more. Stagger the pictures or only use one wall. Shelves or hooks are an alternative to furniture if you don't want anything on the floor but need the storage space. Mirrors will reflect the light, visually opening the foyer as well.

6

Accessorize the foyer with a few key pieces, but don't add so much that it overwhelms the narrow space. For example, a tall and slender floor vase can hold flowers or twigs, or place a tall silk tree in the corner. Vases, pottery or candle arrangements can decorate shelves or a table top, while baskets can provide storage space for shoes, keys, the mail or other items that frequently come in and out of your home.