Tips for Renovating Your Entry-Area
The entry-area of your home is the first impression you make to guests and also the last. When designed correctly, this area should embrace your guests with welcoming warmth to invite them into your home. It's also the perfect way to set the atmosphere and design-scheme for the rest of your home. Many homeowners are without an abundant amount of physical space in their foyer, but that doesn't mean they should avoid creating this welcome area in their home. The ideal entryway doesn't require much extra room to accomplish this goal, but rather a devoted theme to provide space and comfort to both your family and your guests. Each color, furniture piece and fixture should work together to complete this goal, working with the space provided. Strategically placing each item will create a stylishly functional space, even without a large budget. The goal is to create a list of your intentions and a blueprint of the space, to complete the task and remain within your financial means. You'll either need to consider the style of your current space or how you'd like to transform the entire style to determine the right features for your space.
Front Door
For both the exterior and interior appearance, the front door can make a bold statement. Those hoping to upgrade the look of their home can begin here to create the center of their design ideas. The style should mimic the design theme and age of your home. If you want to make a grand entrance, choose a door surrounded by clear or patterned glass to catch the light. This style is more contemporary, while a large, door made from deep hardwood is more classic and rustic. You can change the size and shape of your door, but keep in mind these major changes should only be handled by a professional to avoid issues with drafts and energy-efficiency. If your budget is small and you can't afford a full replacement, you can still make a statement by merely changing the hardware or painting the surface a new color.
Storage
Even small foyers can remain functional with addition of shelving, small tables or even multi-purpose seating. Even if you are hoping to deter your family members and guests dropping things in this area by removing furniture, the lack of these items will not solve the problem. The opening of your home is a magnet for messes. It's the first place you see in your home, and even parents constantly place coats, bags and keys in this area. By providing the right kind of storage, you can at least organize the potential mess and maintain a pristine appearance. Built-in shelves pull the mess off of the floor and neatly tuck these items away, while a small table can feature decor pieces to hold keys and mail items. Verbally assign specific areas to your children so they know the correct places to put their items and to hold them accountable.
Flooring
The flooring in the entryway receives all of the traffic in the home. Not only that, it faces issues with the elements and weather. Installing durable floor in the area will help you to keep-up its appearance and save you money on renovations in the long term. You can shop for flooring online to view your options, while determining your budget and the most reliable brands on the market.
Front Door
For both the exterior and interior appearance, the front door can make a bold statement. Those hoping to upgrade the look of their home can begin here to create the center of their design ideas. The style should mimic the design theme and age of your home. If you want to make a grand entrance, choose a door surrounded by clear or patterned glass to catch the light. This style is more contemporary, while a large, door made from deep hardwood is more classic and rustic. You can change the size and shape of your door, but keep in mind these major changes should only be handled by a professional to avoid issues with drafts and energy-efficiency. If your budget is small and you can't afford a full replacement, you can still make a statement by merely changing the hardware or painting the surface a new color.
Storage
Even small foyers can remain functional with addition of shelving, small tables or even multi-purpose seating. Even if you are hoping to deter your family members and guests dropping things in this area by removing furniture, the lack of these items will not solve the problem. The opening of your home is a magnet for messes. It's the first place you see in your home, and even parents constantly place coats, bags and keys in this area. By providing the right kind of storage, you can at least organize the potential mess and maintain a pristine appearance. Built-in shelves pull the mess off of the floor and neatly tuck these items away, while a small table can feature decor pieces to hold keys and mail items. Verbally assign specific areas to your children so they know the correct places to put their items and to hold them accountable.
Flooring
The flooring in the entryway receives all of the traffic in the home. Not only that, it faces issues with the elements and weather. Installing durable floor in the area will help you to keep-up its appearance and save you money on renovations in the long term. You can shop for flooring online to view your options, while determining your budget and the most reliable brands on the market.
About the Author
Thomas M. Bird is a contributing author and former contractor. He built energy-efficient, functional homes for his clients throughout his 30-year career. Throughout that time, he learned the best ways to save money and maintain a quality home, passing on these tips to his loved ones.
Submitted on: 2015-01-14 01:54:59