DIY Decorating & Design host Nancy Golden outlines the elements every foyer needs to provide guests with an inviting first impression. Entryway Elements Almost all foyers contain some type of table. Choices range from a simple glass table to something more elaborate, such as a Bombay chest. A table should be proportionate to the room and should never get in the way of traffic through the door. Mirrors have become almost standard entryway decorations. They add sparkle, create the illusion of more space and can be dressed up or down depending on the frame. And they're great for last-minute hair and makeup checks as you rush out the door. The floor is the first place you look when entering a room. The rug or mat in your foyer, which is a guest's first introduction to your home, sets the theme (figure A). Choose a durable material that will protect the floor and keep dirt-tracking to a minimum.
To prevent rugs from slipping, buy rubberized shelf-liners at your local home store. Cut a strip of liner the length of your rug, and lay it under the rug. A lamp is a nice touch, and it needn't be extremely bright to serve its purpose. A lamp with a three-way bulb or a dimmer gives you options for setting the mood. Choose accessories wisely. Personalize the space with family photos, a portrait or a personal collection that says something about you. Don't forget plants: they add life and vitality to any space. To create an impression that appeals to all the senses, offer a welcoming scent. Use fresh flowers, potpourri or a scented candle to provide a subtle fragrance that doesn't overwhelm (vanilla seems to appeal to both men and women). A foyer is a good place to get a lot of decorating mileage out of big-ticket items that would be too costly for use in larger rooms. This is the place to use decorative moldings, wainscoting and expensive wallpapers.
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