The entrance hall is your home’s first impression. It is the welcome, the storyteller, the quiet hint of personality before a coat is even removed. In our world of design, this space is a joyful prologue, setting the tone for the rooms that follow. Whether expansive or intimate, the entrance hall holds endless possibility. Here are some of our favourite ways to make it truly memorable.
Colour
Few things lift the spirit quite like colour. An entrance hall is the perfect place to be bold. In one project we painted a partition wall in rich cobalt blue, creating a striking backdrop for Gareth Devonald Smith’s Flower sculpture. Bright orange pillars completed the composition, adding contrast and depth while highlighting the architectural features with expressive flair.
Lighting
Lighting should be considered as carefully as furniture or art. A statement pendant, whimsical chandelier, or sculptural wall lights can transform the hall from functional to theatrical. We often turn to antiques or custom lampshades in unexpected fabrics for that extra layer of delight. Mixing styles, such as a contemporary chandelier paired with an antique table, creates a dynamic tension that makes the space come alive.
Flooring
The floor is often overlooked, yet it quietly holds a space together. A handwoven rug or painted floorboards can ground the room with character. We love layering flatweave rugs in bold geometric patterns to soften the space, add surprise and tie the scheme into a cohesive whole.
Furniture
A hall table is never just a surface for keys and post. It is a chance to showcase personality. An antique console with a vase of loose, natural flowers or a sleek modern lamp sets the tone immediately. At Warren Street Hotel, we placed two stone dogs at the entrance, cheerful companions who greet each guest with charm.
Artwork
Art in the entrance should stop you in your tracks. We often choose the unexpected, folk art, textured collages, or contemporary tapestries. A playful cluster of objects or artworks instantly tells a story and draws the eye through the space. It is one of the quickest and most personal ways to make an entrance feel unique.
Your entrance hall does not need to be grand. It simply needs to reflect you. With colour, light, texture and a touch of theatre, this space can become a delightful introduction to your home. Make it personal, make it joyful and most importantly, make an entrance.