Like a powder room, it’s a space where you want to go all out. I love a little foyer drama, welcoming you, beckoning you to come on in.
When designing a foyer, don’t hold back. Creating a “moment” is one of my favorite things to do. I love to layer, layer, layer. The first thing I generally choose to do is the accent wall. Pulling from the style and feel of the entire first floor, I start with a textured wall, which can be anything: wallpaper, big art, an applied wood technique, a mural, or even a rock. Once that element is in place, the direction can go in many ways—an accent console or chest, maybe a grouping of vases and accessories on a round table, an interesting sculpture or chair.
Some key elements are lighting, art, or a dramatic mirror. Along with a killer chandelier, you can incorporate a table lamp or a wall sconce—the more artistic, the better. Use dimmers (in the entire house). Layer in art, and do not be afraid to hang a busy wallpaper. I so often hear, “How do I put art on that paper?” There is no rule, but I tend to use like colors, and I always like my art oversized or stacked against each other.
To style a console, stack books, cluster vases, and add fresh flowers. And do not ignore the space underneath the console— stools, sculptures, baskets, and ottomans are all good items to place underneath.
I find that the biggest mistake people make is choosing the wrong front door area rug. Watch out for the “postage stamp” size rug. Go as big as you can and, if you’re able to, create a custom rug to follow the lines of the area.
Create that entrance moment with special pieces; hunt for them, layer them, and use light to illuminate them ever so softly.
BETH KEIM is the owner of LUCY AND COMPANY, a full-service interior design firm located at 2108 South Boulevard, Suite 213. For more information, visit LUCYANDCOMPANY.COM or call 704-342-6655.