How to Design a Front Foyer

A house's foyer is the first room a visitor sees, conveying an impression of the owner's personality and style. The foyer creates a buffer between the outside and the interior of the house, establishing a design aesthetic for the rest of the decor. Create a welcoming design in your foyer with carefully chosen furniture and accessories. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Choose paint and flooring that create the feeling you want to convey in your home. This might include warm wood floors with earthy tones on the walls, cool marble tiles flanked by wainscoting, or rustic slate flooring and pine paneling. Whatever your choice, it should match the general style of the rest of the house.

2

Create a focal point. When visitors enter the room, draw their attention with a piece of graphic art, a tapestry, a large framed mirror or another wall hanging. Hang the center of the piece at eye level. If you choose a non-mirrored piece for a focal point, add a small mirror near the door for last-minute inspections before leaving the house.

3

Place an area rug or floor mat inside the door to catch dirt from visitors' shoes. Keep the mat neutral to blend with the flooring, or make a statement with a bold floral or geometric print. If you choose a dramatic floor piece, keep the wall art simple to avoid making the room feel cluttered or overwhelming.

4

Add furniture that fits the size of the room. A grand foyer can handle large, imposing pieces such as a grandfather clock or an armoire. A small foyer is better served with a small end table or decorative shelving. Consider whether you want the room to be functional with seating and storage, mostly decorative with artwork and antiques, or a blend of the two. Make the foyer work for your family's lifestyle.

5

Finish the decor with adequate lighting. This can come from a table lamp, wall sconces, a low-hanging chandelier or other types of fixtures. A well-lit foyer creates a bright, welcoming atmosphere for guests and family alike.