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Keys to a Stylish Entry
Building blocks to a luxurious entry hall
We have already examined the highly functional mud room with hooks, lockers, shoe cubbies, and benches to stow away and organize all the lose items we keep near the back door. Let’s do a 180 and marvel at entry halls that luxuriate in space and provide elements that declare high style. The keen eye will recognize some key building blocks to a stylish entry hall or vestibule.
Number 1 is a handsome console table near the door. These are narrower in depth and taller in height than a typical dresser or desk. They allow you a surface to place keys and loose change and also present a collection of decorative items, such as a vase of fresh flowers. The console table should be simple in structure and speak to the style of the rest of your furniture.
Placing the console table with a mirror above and flanked symmetrically by two lamps or candles is a classic formula for success. In this arrangement a large honeycomb mirror takes center stage. Two hurricane glass candles on each side. And the drawer pulls on the console table add a touch of funkiness to the blend.
A more understated arrangement. The circular geometry in the wall hanging, lamp bases, and drawer pulls is pleasing. Here, there is the larger framework of symmetry, but in the center a more complicated asymmetrical arrangement of flowers, books, and fruit which is very well done in the larger context.
Building on the console table + mirror + decorative items formula, don't be afraid to play around with the symmetry, shapes, and textures. What a striking combination of chunky console, mirrored angled stool, flirty curvilinear mirror, and zebra shaped rug this is. Gray and white, accented by orange in the tray and rug, make for a glamorous mix.
Here's a cute console tucked into the corner of the stairs. A simple asymmetrical arrangement of decorative items, a nice abstract painting, and a plush stool underneath — all in calming cool colors — makes for a modern but cozy entry area.
I appreciate how the homeowner insisted on creating a console + mirror area in this narrow entry space by finding an extra narrow table and creating a niche in the wall for the mirror. The rustic table and carved mirror go well with the Spanish-style home.
Here's another example of a larger entry space. This urban decor uses large abstract artwork in place of a mirror and two striking ceiling pendants add to the mix. I like the edgy black and beige colors that you don't see together often.
A modern take is a custom-built, floating console table with built-in niches for display and just enough room for a small bud vase. Good things do come in small packages.
An eye-catching lighting element, such as this Edison Chandelier, will liven up any entry.
More: Make the Most of a Console Table
Browse more photos of entries
More: Make the Most of a Console Table
Browse more photos of entries