The entrance or foyer is the first space guests see when entering your home.
It’s important to make a great first impression with an inviting, stylish decor in this transitional area.
Foyers come in all shapes and sizes, from small cramped spaces to grand two-story openings, but they all deserve special design attention.
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Create an Art Gallery Wall
One of the best ways to make an impact in a foyer is to install an art gallery wall.
This is a curated arrangement of various sized framed prints, paintings and photographs clustered creatively on one wall.
Gallery walls add personality, color and visual interest to any blank wall space.
When designing your foyer gallery wall, first determine the size and arrangement.
Measure the wall space and sketch out an uneven grid pattern to give the wall an organic look.
Hang the largest artwork pieces first, anchoring the arrangement.
Build up the wall by surrounding the anchor pieces with medium and small sized frames.
Mix up the frame sizes, colors and styles for lots of variety.
Include some occasional negative space between groupings so the wall can “breathe”.
You don’t want the arrangement to look crowded.
Work in some three-dimensional pieces like wall sculptures or shadow boxes to add depth.
Aim to cover about two-thirds of the wall, keeping the bottom third open.
This grounds the space and prevents a cluttered look.
For small foyers, stick with 25-30 pieces total in the gallery wall.
Larger foyers can accommodate 50 or more framed items.
When selecting artwork, look for pieces that reflect your style.
Black and white photography adds classic elegance while colorful abstract paintings bring vibrancy.
Family photos display your personal history.
Pretty prints make great filler pieces around the larger anchor artwork.
Install a Glamorous Chandelier
Few focal points command attention in an entrance like a gorgeous chandelier.
This dazzling lighting fixture makes a serious style statement and creates an instant “wow” factor.
It also casts a warm, welcoming glow throughout the foyer.
When selecting a chandelier, take into account the size and proportions of your foyer.
In general, the wider the space, the larger the chandelier can be.
For small, narrow foyers a 24-30 inch wide chandelier is ideal.
Medium foyers can accommodate 32-38 inch fixtures.
And for larger, grander entryways, a dramatic 40-48 inch chandelier is perfect.
Match the scale of the chandelier to the ceiling height as well.
Standard 8 foot ceilings look best with smaller fixtures while soaring 2-story foyers can handle oversized statement chandeliers.
Just make sure there is at least 18-24 inches clearance from the bottom of the chandelier to head height.
One very glamorous look is a chandelier with cascading strands of crystals.
The sparkle and shine make these fixtures totally eye-catching.
Go for dramatic impact with a chandelier that has 200-400 crystals and multiple tiers of strands.
Czech crystal is the highest quality but can be pricey.
Less expensive crystal-cut glass beads also have beautiful refraction.
For some contemporary glamour, chose a chandelier with spherical globes or curved glass shapes.
A grouping of 3-5 frosted glass balls makes a chic, mod statement.
Or look for curved ice droplets, ovals or abstract shapes.
Silver and gold metallics add polish.
Wrought iron, brass and chrome finishes give any chandelier an ultra sophisticated style.
Mixing metal finishes, like an antique bronze base with silver candle holders, looks especially elegant.
Add crystal or bead dangles for a touch of femininity.
Place your foyer chandelier centrally to make the biggest visual impact.
Hang a Statement Mirror
Strategically placed mirrors are wonderful decorative additions to foyers for two reasons – they visually expand the space and create stylish focal points.
Oversized statement mirrors attract immediate attention and lend elegance.
When selecting a statement mirror go for maximum drama.
Round, oval and rectangular shapes all have presence.
Beveled edges add depth and architectural interest.
For traditional foyers, look for antique-inspired frames with carved details.
Intricate metalwork like scrolled filigree or leaf designs provide classic ornamentation.
Lean toward large sizes like 36 x 60 inches or bigger.
The mirror should be proportional to the wall space – not too small in a large area.
Place the mirror in a prominent position facing the entry door so it’s the first decorative feature guests notice.
One eye-catching idea is to hang a statement mirror above a console table or sideboard.
Choose a mirror wide enough to visually expand the furniture piece.
The pairing of the two beautiful elements makes a cohesive vignette.
Flank the mirror with decorative sconces at each side.
Candlestick-style wall sconces work well for traditional spaces.
Sleek modern sconces better suit contemporary homes.
The lighting framing the mirror provides lovely ambiance.
Try nestling mirrors among other works rather than placing alone.
For example, hang a large mirror near an artistic canvas print.
The pairing adds intrigue and depth to the arrangement.
Or design a unique mirror gallery wall with 4-6 same-sized rectangular or oval mirrors creatively clustered.
Lean some vertically and some horizontally.
This makes a graphic, modern statement in minimalist foyers.
For a bit of glitz, seek out an antique-inspired mirror with crystal edging or accents.
The refraction of light on the crystals imparts dazzle.
Set in a baroque-style gilded frame, a crystal mirror transports guests to Versailles.
Build a Rustic Console
Rustic style foyers feature natural materials and handcrafted charm.
One way to establish the look is by building or buying a substantial wood console table for the entry.
Topped with decor objects, this furniture anchoring the space with organic texture.
For DIYers, a simple console table made from a raw cedar plank makes a wonderful beginner rustic woodworking project.
Cedar’s natural reddish-brown tones and distinctive grain pattern instantly read “rustic.”
The plank can be sanded smooth or left with its natural uneven surface.
Cut the piece about 36-42 inches tall so it fits perfectly on an entry wall without overwhelming.
Width depends on your space, but generally 40-60 inches works well.
Always cut wood extra long, then trim down for the right size.
Add base support with four squared wood legs, available premade.
Stain the legs a darker color for contrast.
Attach them by drilling and screwing in place at the corners.
For shelving, use reclaimed barn wood planks.
Distress them further by lightly sanding and staining gray.
Fasten with screws at least 4-6 inches long for stability.
The rustic wood console table is complete – seal with polyurethane for protection.
For a shop-bought console, look for reclaimed wood styles with metal accents.
Elm, pine and mango wood have beautiful natural whorls, knots and grain.
The carvings and texture of the unfinished surfaces add to the rustic appeal.
Seek out consoles with vintage-style iron bases, hammered tin doors, or metal rimmed tops.
Iron candle chandeliers also complement.
The mix of wood and metal brings industrial edge.
Top your rustic console with decor objects that add to the cozy organic look.
Stack old leather-bound books or display weathered boxes and crates.
Include a few air plants in white ceramics or small pine planters for greenery.
Add small animal sculptures like roosters, deer or rams for farmhouse character.
Flank the console with two wooden ladder shelves, also easily DIYed.
Lean the ladders slightly asymmetrically and fill the rungs with framed photos, vines, pinecones or lanterns.
This vignette creates a room-like feel in the foyer.
Area rugs with Southwestern or tribal patterns harmonize well with rustic decor.
Their earthy reds, tans and blacks accentuate the wood tones.
Use natural fiber rugs like jute or wool for texture.
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Add Bold Wallpaper
For serious drama in your foyer, paper one or more walls in bold, graphic wallpaper.
This makes a huge impact in the transitional entry space.
From floral patterns to geometric prints, wallpaper offers so many artistic styles for you to incorporate.
When selecting statement wallpaper, think about the mood you want to convey.
Traditional damasks, toiles or scrollwork designs lend an elegant, formal look.
An oversized damask in contrasting colors instantly elevates.
Chinoiserie scenes with pagodas and birds bring exotic flair.
Contemporary graphic patterns like herringbones, large stripes and tessellations establish modern flair.
Look for these prints in high contrast black and white or metallic silver and gray.
Geometric shapes have a sleek, bold attitude.
Whimsical wallpapers like oversized floral blooms, jungle motifs and tropical leaves create a playful, bohemian vibe.
These exotic prints especially suit homes with vintage eclectic character.
For coastal homes, papers with shells, sea fans or distressed nautical maps evoke seaside living.
Sophisticated taupe and navy color schemes keep the beachy look refined.
Whatever your style, choose wallpaper with exaggerated oversized motifs for maximum drama.
Scale is important – smaller patterns will get lost.
The foyer is a place to go bold so don’t be shy!
Only wallpaper one wall to create a strong focal point.
All-over wallpaper tends to look overpowering and busy in entryways.
For long foyers, paper the end wall or the wall behind an architectural feature like a staircase.
This frames the view from the front door with color and interest.
Install your wallpaper professionally for the most flawless look.
Precise pattern matching and invisible seams require an expert.
Ask about peel-and-stick papers – these are removable and cause less wall damage, great for renters.
For a quick and affordable accent, use removable peel-and-stick wallpaper only on a portion of the wall, like inside wall recesses or behind framed artwork.
Just a peek of the pattern makes a pop of color.
Proper lighting shows off wallpaper best.
Use your dramatic foyer paper as the backdrop for an ornamental chandelier or candle wall sconces.
The soft illumination will highlight the colors, sheen and textures.
Add Crown Molding
One of the most transformative foyer decor upgrades is installing crown molding where the walls meet the ceiling.
This architectural trim detail instantly conveys elegance and sophistication.
Crown molding also defines the proportions of the space.
For standard 8-10 foot ceiling heights, a 4-6 inch crown molding width works beautifully.
Measure correctly so the trim projects from the wall at a 45 degree angle.
Larger foyers can handle 8-12 inch moldings.
Seek out high quality wood crown molding for the most authentic historic look.
Timeless designs like dental, crosshead and foliate are traditional patterns that add interest.
Ornate carved moldings impart grandness.
For cost efficiency, use polyurethane foam crown molded from real wood patterns.
This is light, easy to install and captures all the detail of real wood.
budget option is vinyl wrap moldings.
Crown should contrast the wall color just slightly – either a bit darker or lighter.
For example, install bright white crown atop pale blue walls or espresso trim framing warm tan.
This makes the molding pop.
Matching wall and crown color can get muddy.
If you want an integrated monochrome look, choose a high contrast molding that picks up an accent shade in artwork or furnishings.
For instance, deep red walls with icy blue crown coordinates with blue chairs in the space.
In small foyers with low ceilings, draw they eye upward and create verticality by exaggerating crown height.
Maximize the trim, bringing it as close to the ceiling as possible.
For a contemporary twist, paint ultra wide crown molding high-gloss black or white.
In two-story foyers, carry the crown molding up the wall along the staircase.
Wrap it around Palladian windows or arched niches to define the architecture.
Frame out bookcases built into the walls with horizontal bands of crown.
Proper indirect lighting highlights ornate crown molding details.
Wall sconces cast an upward glow to accentuate the trim shadows and relief.
Recessed ceiling cans also illuminate without glare.
Define Zones with Area Rugs
Use area rugs to designate specific activity zones within open, expansive foyers.
Rugs delineate sitting and console table areas from traffic paths in the transitional entry space.
They also warm up foyers with color, texture and softness underfoot.
Incorporate an entry rug in front of the door – this anchors the welcome zone.
Choose low pile door mats that can handle wet, dirty shoes.
Natural coir fiber scrapes shoes clean while absorbing moisture.
Use nonslip rug pads underneath for safety.
Next, lay a rug underneath console tables or benches to define a vignette area.
For high-traffic foyers, pick durable, stain resistant rugs in this spot.
Wool or wool-synthetic blends withstand heavy use.
Try a trellis, floral medallion or border print here.
For seating areas with side chairs or a bench, layer a rug underneath.
This rug can be more delicate and decorative since it will get less wear.
Silky viscose or velvet rugs add luxe texture and sheen.
In open foyer plans that flow into surrounding living spaces, designate zones with area rugs of different styles or patterns.
For example, place a graphic black and white print in the entry then switch to ascrollwork rug in the adjacent living area.
The rugs’ shapes also help divide the conjoined spaces.
To unify all the rugs, repeat colors in each piece.
Pull a shade from the entry rug into the console rug, then again in the sitting area.
Tonal variety prevents a matchy-matchy look.
Or stick to a single fiber like sisal or jute for organic texture throughout.
Mix up the weave styles from cable to basketweave and vary thicknesses.
Natural fiber rugs project casual, coastal style.
In high contrast foyers with dark floors, make rugs pop with ivory and cream shades.
For light wood or tile flooring, use rugs with bold navy, black or crimson colors so they stand out.
Avoid rugs too small for the space – they’ll look like isolated islands.
Measure to size your rugs about 24 inches from the walls all around.
Large rugs visually anchor expansive foyers.
Add Wainscoting Panels for Traditional Elegance
Few architectural features evoke heritage elegance like decorative wainscoting paneled walls.
This trim detailing along the lower halves of walls imparts traditional sophistication.
Wainscoting also adds polish, texture and visual interest to foyer spaces.
Traditional wainscoting consists of vertical tongue-and-groove boards trimmed with decorative molding caps and baseboards.
The height is typically 32-48 inches.
Taller is more formal.
Go beyond just plain flat panels for the most ornamental look.
Raised panel wainscoting has a series of square, rectangular or oval molded frames.
The center panels sit higher than the surrounding wood trim.
The layering creates dimension and classical symmetry.
Recessed panel wainscoting takes the opposite approach – the center panels are flat within the raised wood trim.
This lighter, airier version has a casual cottage feel perfect for farmhouse style homes.
For contemporary leanings, install beadboard wainscoting.
The vertical boards have thin, evenly spaced indentations carved throughout.
Whitewashed beadboard adds a beach house vibe while stained dark walnut is modern.
Look for wainscoting crafted from high quality woods like oak, maple, cherry or mahogany for an authentic appearance.
Use medium to dark wood tones to contrast light walls.
Painted wainscoting also looks elegant – try light blue, sage green or airy gray tones.
When determining wainscoting height and width, consider the proportions of your foyer.
Scale the size of the panels relative to wall height for balance.
Normal ceilings need standard 32-36 inch height.
Two-story foyers can accommodate wainscoting up to 60 inches tall.
In small narrow foyers, limit panels to 24-30 inches wide so the space doesn’t feel cramped.
Larger panels, 36-48 inches wide, suit sizable foyers.
Customize trim, moldings and corners to fit your exact layout.
Take care to properly prep and install wainscoting over drywall.
Precise measurements and cuts are needed to align the panels.
Filler strips likely will be required – take time to caulk and smooth seams for a cohesive wall.
The right lighting showcases wainscoting textures.
Use sconces with illumination focused upward to highlight panel details.
Low-voltage lighting shining across walls also brightens molding dimension.
Wainscoting lends heritage character to today’s foyers.
This architectural trim detail signals timeless sophistication to guests as soon as they enter your home.
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Build Floor-to-Ceiling Shelve
For an incredibly sleek, contemporary look, install floor-to-ceiling shelving in your modern foyer.
This creates clean, streamlined storage and eliminates clutter.
Visually, the towering shelves make a sculptural statement.
Floor-to-ceiling shelves work best anchored to a non-window wall or partition.
For stability, attach wood boards directly to wall studs.
Thick shelves that span 14-16 inches deep can handle heavier decorative objects.
If possible, run LED lighting along the top and bottom of shelving for ambiance.
The goal is to wash the walls with an even glow while highlighting display pieces.
Style the shelves with a minimalist look – don’t overcrowd.
Group items asymmetrically in threes and fives, leaving ample negative space around.
This allows guests to admire individual objects rather than competing visuals.
For small sculptures or decorative bowls, use acrylic risers to add height and interest.
Try hammered gold vases, geo white ceramics or smooth wood carvings.
Anything with simple organic shapes shows well on modern shelves.
Books are, of course, natural choices for shelving.
Group books by color and bind hardcovers with intriguing jackets facing out.
White books pop against dark shelves while multicolored spines add a fun spectrum.
Green plants also bring life to stark shelves.
Use sleek ceramic planters or modern metal pots with trailing ivy, ferns, orchids or air plants.
Place greenery at various heights to punctuate the shelves.
Incorporate some personal photography, travel souvenirs or children’s artwork.
Mismatched frames add quirk so don’t fuss over finding perfect matches.
Let the shelves reflect your family’s personalities.
Shelving reaches can double as display space for collections.
Show off artful objects like sea shells, colored glass bottles, or vintage cameras.
Dramatic satisfy display with collections grouped in odd numbers.
The clean simplicity of floor-to-ceiling shelving prevents visual chaos at the foyer entrance.
Guests can admire your meaningful keepsakes as they wait to enter your contemporary home.
Add Tropical Greenery
Lush, tropical plants instantly energize and revive foyers with organic texture and eye-catching foliage.
Bring the vibrant colors and forms of outside nature right into your entrance vignette.
The most dramatic look comes from dense clusters of greenery.
Opt for large statement plants like spiral snake plants, cascading philodendrons, or tall bamboo palms.
Their impressive heights make a living sculpture.
Place the greenery in natural large wicker baskets lined with coconut fiber liners or shredded tree bark.
Woven textures complement the plants’ untamed shapes.
Set plant baskets in opposite corners to frame the foyer view.
Supplement tall backdrop greenery with medium-sized fronds like bird’s nest ferns, parlor palms, or asparagus ferns sprouting from ceramic pots.
Their arching forms contrast beautifully with the tall vertical plants.
Then intersperse smaller 4-6 inch potted succulents along the console table or shelves for punctuation.
Mini cacti, aloe vera and echeveria add sculptural rosettes.
Create staggered height and depth by resting plants atop slim pedestals, pillars or plant stands in iron, wood and stone.
Change up shapes and finishes for textural appeal.
Incorporate hanging air plants mounted to wood beads or suspended from macrame holders.
Air plants resemble wild tangled vines that perfectly suit tropical decor.
Let them trail down from ceiling hooks.
For the most natural look, use earthy terra cotta, rattan or rope containers.
Painted terracotta pots in tomato red, sea green and sunshine yellow add cheery color.
Help your new plants thrive with the right foyer lighting.
Fluorescent grow lights supplement low natural light.
LED grow bulbs require no separate fixtures.
Filling your entrance with leafy greenery and flowering plants energizes the space with organic vibrance.
You’ll walk into your home through a lush tropical oasis!
Add Whitewash Brick Backdrop
Exposed whitewashed brick makes a raw yet refined backdrop in modern farmhouse style foyers.
The creamy painted bricks have an authentic timeworn look with subtle varied hues peeking through.
This neutral canvas is the perfect rustic foil for your console table and entryway accent pieces.
For new construction, work with your builder to incorporate exposed partial brick walls.
Focus brick around fireplaces, alcoves and architectural details.
Installing the brick during initial building is far easier than adding later.
In existing homes, expose interior brick by removing a portion of drywall.
Carefully cut and demo inside corners to minimize damage.
Smooth cut edges with plaster so bricks sit flush within the wall plane.
Always examine the condition of hidden bricks before exposing.
Any crumbling, cracked or deteriorating bricks will necessitate replacement.
Salvaged bricks can fill holes but may not match exactly.
Thoroughly clean exposed bricks to remove decades of dirt, soot and grime before whitewashing.
Use a stiff wire brush and then rinse bricks completely with a hose.
Allow 2-3 days of drying time.
For whitewash, thin white latex paint with water until it reaches a washable milk-like consistency.
Load into a paint sprayer and spritz bricks in even light coats.
Let bricks dry between coats.
Two to three coats provides ideal coverage.
The colored brick tones should show through slightly in areas to avoid a flat, solid white expanse.
Soften the transition from exposed brick to drywall by framing out the edges with wood boards.
This creates a window box effect.
Paint the wood framing a light natural wood tone as contrast.
Style your whitewashed brick wall thoughtfully around your console table.
For example, place your console table off-center and asymmetrically arrange framed photos across the brickwork “gallery style”.
Lean a vintage ladder against the expanse of brick to fill in space and add rustic warmth.
Hang woven sisal storage baskets from the rungs to reinforce the natural aesthetic.
Whitewashed brick lends farmhouse charm to modern foyers in a clean and sophisticated way.
The variegated white bricks form an inviting neutral backdrop for your entry.
Build Rustic Wood Beam Shelving
Wood beams are synonymous with rustic style.
Incorporate this charming architectural touch into your country foyer by framing out the entryway with exposed wood beams.
Transform them into handy shelf space to display collected treasures.
Use new or salvaged beams at least 6 inches deep and as long as your foyer is wide.
Dry oak, cedar and Douglas fir have beautiful worn patinas perfect for shelves.
Saw beams to consistent lengths with 45-degree angle corner cuts.
Fasten beams to the studs in your wall securely, especially if bearing weight.
Pre-drill holes to avoid splitting wood.
Hold beams in place with 3-4 inch screws into the wall studs.
Hide screw heads for a clean look.
For a chunky, substantial shelf, allow beams to rest on natural brackets anchored sideways into the wall studs.
The brackets should extend at least 4-6 inches below for proper support.
Smaller floating shelves can attach right to wall studs.
Use at least three strong metal brackets spaced evenly.
This creates a rustic recessed shelf effect.
Sand any splintery edges until smooth and wipe away dust.
Use wood stain, gel stains or paint to finish beams in complementary colors to your wall hues.
An aged gray creates a weathered barnwood look on oak.
Accentuate the wood grain beauty by rubbing planks with liming wax.
This white wax highlights the defined lines in the natural wood.
Buff it in evenly then wipe away excess.
Once secured, your rustic wood beam shelves are ready to accessorize.
They look best styled with an eclectic mix of weathered found objects.
Display your collections of seashells, sea glass, rocks or pinecones gathered through nature walks.
Stack antique books and local pottery.
Prop up framed nature prints in vintage frames.
Weave greenery along the shelves like trailing ivy vines or little succulent potted plants.
Place lanterns and candles carefully to avoid safety risks.
Simple raw wood shelves lend a casual, inviting vibe right from the foyer entry.
Your collections of natural found items and family mementos will feel right at home.
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Add Architectural Columns and Arches
One excellent way to amplify the style and presence of your foyer is by incorporating architectural design elements like columns, arches or alcoves.
Structural features draw the eye while also lending historical character.
Classical rounded columns establish instant elegance.
Use substantial columns at least 10-12 inches in diameter.
Fluted designs or embossed patterns add intricate detail.
Top columns with ornate capitals carved with acanthus leaves, scrolls or geometric shapes.
Place columns in pairs or threes to frame foyer vignettes.
Flank the front door or archways with stately columns for grand Greek Revival atmosphere.
Column groupings also make refined console table backdrops.
For contemporary loft style, square-edged pillars work better than classical columns.
Stain exposed plywood pillars in espresso or charcoal black.
Or paint sleek white pillars glossy for modern sophistication.
Arched openings leading from the foyer also impart architectural flair.
Define curved archways over doorways with wide columned frames or crown molding.
Paint the arched walls a contrasting color to spotlight the shape.
Carved archways add character even without doors.
Display collections or greenery in the recessed niches.
Try artfully positioning a console table centered beneath a framed archway.
In open concept homes, demarcate the foyer from living areas with an arched walkthrough trimmed in the same crown molding.
The ceiling treatment separates the spaces with elegance.
Use wall sconces to illuminate arch details.
Vertical up-lights cast dramatic shadows that emphasize the curved edges and dimensional trim work.
Freestanding arches make striking stand-alone foyer features.
Pass through a short whitewashed garden arch topped with trailing vines.
Or frame an entry vignette within a salvaged old door archway propped on columns.
By working arches, columns and alcoves into your foyer, you set a luxe architectural tone for your home right from the entry.
Guests step into a space brimming with style and character.
First impressions matter when you welcome guests into your home.
