First Impressions Matter: How to Design a Memorable Entryway
The entryway is often overlooked—but it’s the first and last space your guests will experience. It’s more than a passageway; it’s a prologue. At Narine + Co., we treat the entry as a mood-setter, a style statement, and—most importantly—a deeply personal welcome. Whether you’re working with a grand foyer or a modest hallway, here are our go-to principles for crafting an entry that’s both functional and unforgettable.
1. Start with a Clear Function
Before you style, ask: What’s the function of this space?
Do you need a landing spot for keys and mail? A mirror for last-minute touch-ups? Hidden storage for shoes and dog leashes?
We often begin with a well-proportioned console table or bench as the anchor. Add a shallow tray or catchall bowl to contain clutter. Bonus points for hidden drawers or woven baskets underneath—beautiful and practical.
2. Think of It as a Preview
Your entryway should hint at the design language used throughout your home. Is your aesthetic classic and layered? Minimal and sculptural? Playful and pattern-forward?
We love incorporating small-scale versions of the materials or motifs found elsewhere in the home—an antique mirror, a velvet stool, or a fragment of wallpaper that nods to the powder room around the corner.
3. Light It Well
Lighting in an entry is often underestimated. A well-placed pendant or flush mount instantly elevates the space, and we almost always recommend adding a lamp on the console for softer, ambient glow.
Pro tip: Use warm bulbs (2700K–3000K) for a cozy, flattering light that feels like an embrace.
4. Don’t Forget the Scent
Scent is a powerful emotional trigger. A subtle diffuser, candle, or small arrangement of fresh eucalyptus can make your home feel immediately inviting. We keep a roster of our favorite scent profiles depending on the season and client vibe—think fig and cedar in the fall, neroli or sea salt in spring.
5. Art + Objects That Tell a Story
An entryway is the perfect place to display a conversation-starting piece: a framed photograph from your travels, a vintage sculpture, or even a handwritten note from someone you love. These are the pieces that make your home yours.
We like to strike a balance—one tall item (a lamp or vase with branches), one grounding element (like a tray or stack of books), and one object with personality. It’s a formula that always feels layered, not cluttered.
Final Thought
At Narine + Co., we believe that every corner of your home should feel considered, soulful, and entirely you. The entryway may be small in square footage, but it holds a big role in the story of your space.
Ready to reimagine yours? We’d love to help you make an entrance.
📩 Contact us today!