THE ART OF THE ENTRY - PATINA PRINCIPLES
- 19 hours ago
- 4 min read
How many times have you heard, "You never get a second chance at a first impression”?
That first handshake, or hug, the first smile, or grimace, often sets the tone for the relationship that may or may not follow. Although it is wise to let your opinion evolve through further interactions, those initial moments shape how we view one another far into the future.
This truth extends beyond our interpersonal relationships into the realm of home design, namely, the entryway. This space in any home is the first impression, not only for guests, but for yourself as well. If it is well designed, it can serve as a peaceful place of transition, where inhabitants and visitors can leave the outside world behind and begin to rest. If not, those first moments in your home can feel more overwhelming than rejuvenating.
In the homes that Steve and I create, we take special consideration of this space, noting its importance in setting the tone for the rest of the home. During the design process, we consider a few key elements when curating a beautiful and useful entryway. The first decision begins outside the front door.
APPROACHING THE DOOR
Before we begin selecting indoor décor, we consider the approach to the front door. We want our clients and their guests to feel as though they are being gently led to the front door, as though the landscape itself is offering its own welcome.
We create this feeling in a few ways. In projects where we can design the gardens, we create a charming pathway lined with lush hedging and a selection of flowers. Together, these elements create a calming atmosphere on the approach.
Sometimes, the home's gardens are slightly separated from the entrance. In this case, we utilize potted plants and whimsical garden ornaments to soften the façade of the home.
Don't forget to utilize outdoor lighting to illuminate porches and pathways, gently guiding guests as they arrive and depart.
DOORS, FLOORS & CEILINGS
In our projects, Steve and I strive to seamlessly blend the exterior and interior spaces, creating a connection between the two worlds.
One of the ways we do this is by using windowed doors, allowing the gardens to be viewed and natural light to pour into the space. On properties where privacy is a concern, we can install light linen draperies.
Another way we unify the home with the natural world is by utilizing the same materials outside and inside. Oftentimes, we will continue the same outdoor stone flooring indoors in the entryway, creating a less drastic difference between the two and allowing for a softer transition.
When it comes to the ceiling, as with all details, it will vary depending on the taste of the client, but we love to use a light-colored paint or plaster to bring light into the space. One of Steve's favorite tricks for creating a warmer welcome is utilizing a lower ceiling in the initial entry. This detail creates a cozier feel and elicits a feeling of safety, especially if the rest of the space has higher ceilings.
FURNITURE & DÉCOR
Although an entryway should be beautiful, it also needs to be functional. This is the first area you enter and the last one you leave, so it should have a place for you to set down your keys, bags, and anything else you don't need to bring into the rest of the home.
In addition to a small console, we also like to include a mirror in the space for any last-minute checks before heading out the door.
Since it is the first impression of your home, and one of the most frequented spaces, this is also a wonderful area to display artwork and collections that bring you joy, so that you can appreciate them, and your guests can get a greater glimpse into your unique taste.
As with the building materials, we like to utilize traditional outdoor pieces in this category as well. Oftentimes, we will bring in garden ornaments and statues, as well as potted plants, to once again blur the line between the inside of the home and the land.
Just like every room in your home, this space should feel like a reflection of you. If someone were to walk in, they should already feel as though they are getting a sense of the people who live there, without a word needing to be spoken.
But the most important first impression your home makes is the one it makes on you, each and every day. It should warmly welcome you home every day and gently ease you into the world as you depart. Intentionally designing it with this purpose in mind can change the way you feel throughout the rest of your home, and throughout the rest of your life.
I hope these Patina Principles have inspired you to look at your entryway in a new way and that they help you design a life you love. If you would like design insights, check out our series of books.
xx,
Brooke
