Making An Entrance

As the saying goes, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” This is especially true when welcoming guests into your home.

Jenn Shelby and Darica Smith, owners and founders of Neat Interiors & Design, specialize in whole-home styling, but they love foyer styling in particular as it sets the mood and tone for the rest of the home.

Shelby and Smith encourage people to think: How do you want a guest to feel, and what do you want them to expect as they are welcomed throughout your home?

“A foyer is your opportunity to communicate your personal style, start a thoughtful journey, and set intentions,” says Smith. “The foyer is a transitional space that connects the outdoors to the indoors. [It] reflects the characteristics of the home and your personal style, so it shouldn’t feel vacant.”

Functionality is as important as style. A rug is useful as it can catch dirt and debris from the outdoors. Additionally, consider incorporating shelving or a basket to collect shoes, bags, umbrellas, and more. A table or small dresser to catch your keys or a bench where you can sit to put on your shoes are two other functional options. 

Photos courtesy of NEAT Interiors

Lighting is a focal point that can set the tone in a foyer. From there, you can add art and accessories that bring fun to the functional.

“A foyer is a great place to have fun with trending design decor and elements that are often easy to change out and update,” says Shelby.

Shelby and Smith work with clients to achieve a look that feels genuine to them. For those who want to dabble in what’s trending, they note that bold patterns and colors paired with warm wood are having a big moment.

“We encourage mixing layers of patterns and texture, making spaces feel cozy and curated,” says Smith.

Here, Shelby and Smith provide portfolio examples of some of their favorite foyers. While each project is unique, let these serve as some serious inspiration.

Photos courtesy of NEAT Interiors

Make it monochrome

In recent years, monochrome has had a resurgence. In this foyer, a black-and-white palette is juxtaposed by bronze furnishings. The result is sleek, stylish, and transportive. “It feels like you just arrived at your favorite boutique hotel to relax for a long weekend,” says Smith.

Adds Shelby: “The monochromatic design style is carried from the foyer throughout the main areas of the home to create a cohesive vibe but layered with interesting objects, art, and furnishings, proving neutral is never boring.”

Photos courtesy of NEAT Interiors

Adventure awaits

Grand indeed, this entrance’s architecture, featuring a stunning staircase and arched doorway, is complemented by a statement-making chandelier, warm earthtones, and art and objects collected and curated to spark curiosity.

Dark wood is accompanied by pops of white, green, and yellow to emphasize warmth and nature. Candles and curio pieces add character and visual interest on a smaller level. The art is eclectic and travel-centric, creating talking points for visitors.

Photos courtesy of NEAT Interiors

Refined relaxation

Reminiscent of a tearoom, this foyer invites its guests to gather over a cup of tea by afternoon or cocktails in the evening. White and cream accented by blues and greens reflect a soothing color scheme with pattern play in florals and furs. “The walls are wrapped in a custom-tailored scenic mural that reflects the client’s sense of style,” notes Shelby. The room is “furnished with carefully selected pieces to complement the scenic mural.”

Photos courtesy of NEAT Interiors

Not your average office

Neat’s services include home office foyers and business office foyers. “Offices are no different than a home when it comes to the importance of welcoming a client or guest,” says Smith. “Before the handshake and introduction, they walk through the door and simply take it in.”

Say you’re the owner of a spa or salon. You may be swayed toward light tones, cool colors, and pastels paired with pretty patterns and feminine details. If you wish to impress with timeless sophistication yet a dash of personality, consider a monochromatic scheme, eye-catching artwork, dark wood, metal accents, and cozy furniture.