2024 – Design of the entrance

Whether small or large, the entryway sets the tone for the home but is often overlooked. A well-thought-out room layout and a few selected accessories are enough to make it inviting, functional and always impeccable. Would you like to make your copy more practical and inviting? Follow the leader !

Create departments

“In most interiors, the closet is equipped with a rod on which there is a shelf, which is not practical as a lot of space is wasted,” notes interior designer Jessica Locas of Locas Design. The advantage is being able to open up the existing closet and then incorporate custom furniture divided into small sections without having to redesign everything in the room. “We will add drawers and shelves to optimize space; You can save almost double the storage space by filling all the empty spaces. »

Study the available space

If you want to do further renovations, first check the available space to promote ergonomics. “Bespoke furniture is ideal because we use every centimeter while being careful not to obstruct traffic,” says interior designer Pascale Nakhlé. We offer storage space for hanging coats and bags, drawers for storing hats and all those little things that lie around and you never know where to put them; We also provide a grate in a low cupboard for the water to drip from the boots and then a cupboard for the umbrellas. » It is important to think about functionality but also aesthetics and take into account the furnishings of the house so that everything is harmonious.

Allow yourself some boldness

If you want the style of the entrance to be in harmony with the rest of the interior, do not hesitate to add bold accents. “We can have fun creating a little cocoon,” continues Jessica Locas. The moody look characterized by dark colors goes well with this small room and gives it a cozy atmosphere. “You should also not be afraid to paint the ceiling a dark shade for a spectacular effect. This is also the right place to put original wallpaper on an accent wall. »

Two-stage lighting

For good direct lighting, you need a nice ceiling light or recessed lights, to which you can add integrated LED strips for atmospheric lighting in the lower area, for example under the bench. The result is elegant and warm at the same time.

Choose a durable floor

The entrance floor is subject to heavy use, so it is best to lay porcelain on it as it is durable, waterproof and easy to clean. “I like large formats that limit the number of joints, but in old houses I prefer the integration of small tiles that respect the external architecture,” explains Pascale Nakhlé. Tiles also allow you to zone the entrance if it leads directly to another room, such as the living room. However, you should avoid creating corners as the visual result will look strange in the room.

Choose a spacious rug

The entrance mat is essential for absorbing water and dust and is now available in various designs. Some models are machine washable. The mistake to avoid is choosing it too small; It’s really uncomfortable, especially when it’s cold and guests are waiting in single lines outside to get their hands on a small piece of carpet! It must therefore cover a good part of the ground, even almost all of it in winter. “We find carpets on the market in a beautiful variety of colors and patterns, so we can turn them into decorative elements in their own right,” emphasizes Pascale Nakhlé. Again, consistency with the rest of the house is important, but I encourage people to venture into a geometric or floral pattern, a less common color, as a rug doesn’t necessarily cost much and can be easily replaced. » You can also have one per season.

Prefer accessories at height

Both designers insist on clearing the floor as much as possible to clear traffic and keep the area tidy. So choose accessories that you can attach to the wall, such as a shelf for the keys and then a few hooks at a height suitable for all family members to quickly hang the coat of the day but without attaching too much to avoid accumulation. In fact, one per person is enough. Finally, a mirror is also welcome, but you have to be careful what it reflects. Well positioned, it can help add depth to the room.

Visit the Locas Design website

Visit Pascale Nakhlé’s website