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The entry of your home should be a welcoming first impression. Recently, a client shared an inspiration photo of an entry and asked me what we could do to transform hers into a similar stylish space.
We quickly got to work editing the former shabby-chic foyer into a more interesting and up-to-date space that still utilizes some of her favorite items. I am drawn to an ecclectic design philosophy, one that combines the old with new, modern with traditional. Fabulous is as simple as 1 + 2 when you use this foolproof formula.
The Formula: 1+2 = Old + New
Take your favorite antique, flea market, or hand-me-down item and pair it with something modern. For example, If you have an old mirror, place it above a modern console as I did in my inspiration board. It's easy to remember... If it's old, place something modern on, beside, under, or above the piece. Use a variety of textures. Mix wood, metals, laquers, lucite, natural fibers, glass, and fabric. It's a great idea to mix styles... It creates an interesting space that looks collected, not cookie cutter.
1. Hand-painted wall paper by graciestudio.com is a beautiful combination of an elegant bird and branch scene made modern with a bold punch of orange. If you aren't a fan of pattern, you can't go wrong with paint! Go bold or serene, all items shown will be a beautiful balance to virtually any palette.
2. Driftwood lamps from West Elm bring in a natural, weathered, sculptural element. Swap out the dark shades with white ones for a softer, less dramatic look.
3. I swoon for the sensational starburst. This one was designed by Parish-Hadley for Baker Furniture.
4. CB2 Fresca white console table has a beautiful high-gloss lacquer finish to it. It's a perfect modern balance to the mirror and wall-covering.
5. This French-style X Bench by Downtown has been modernized with the white gold gilt on it's iron legs.
6. George III antique tea caddy in tortoise shell. This sitting on the low lacquered box in duck egg blue... Simply gorgeous!
7. Duck egg and sand-lacquered boxes by Ille.
8. What is more welcoming than fresh flowers? I love white hydrangea all year long!
9. The timeless, durable, and inexpensive sisal rug adds a natural base to your fabulous foyer!
Notice how all these beautiful entries use our formula of mixing the old and new. The console shown in this third photo is brilliant! An old piece was painted, nail heads added to the drawers, legs removed, and was secured to the wall. Love this idea!
Don't be afraid of pattern. Wallpaper can be exciting and make a huge statement as you enter your home. Now that you have found the formula, you too can create a fabulous foyer! Have fun!
By Trenna Travis, Trenna Travis Design Studio
