Small Foyer = Big Impression (and a New Favorite Find)

    

Over the weekend, I ran into Kirkland's to look for some mirrors for our bathroom (that's another story for later. . . )  and I was pleasantly surprised to find this:    






I have to admit, I don't normally think of Kirkland's for unique furniture pieces, but I loved the look of this little chest. (Can't you just see it updated with some pretty, brass ring pulls?)  And, to make it even more appealing, it's only 12 inches deep, which would make it the perfect addition to a narrow foyer, like mine.

(The blue lamps and sofa table aren't staying in this spot--just trying to get a feel for how crowded it would be.) 

I love pretty entryways (in fact, I did a whole post on it here) and have always wished for one in our home.  I've been doing some experimenting as of late, and am considering adding a piece of furniture to the narrow little hallway leading into our family room.  Not only would a pretty chest and mirror make a statement, but it may help to disguise some of the 42 light switches, the thermostat, door bell, etc., that are placed not-so-strategically on this wall.  (Why do builders do that?!)


The good news is that small spaces don't necessarily mean that you can't create a big impression when you come through the front door.  Here are a few examples of small entryways that create the illusion of a grand foyer and why they work:

Apartment Therapy

You don't need to follow the scale of the space when it comes to decorating a small foyer.  In fact, this is a great place to experiement with a large framed piece of wallpaper or a stencil that you've been too scared to use elsewhere in your home.  I also like how this particular example doesn't just stop with pattern on the wall, but that they've also made a bright statement on the floor with the yellow striped rug.

Anne Coyle 

Go bold!  You can get away with a lot in an entryway.  Even if the rest of your house is tan with pops of beige, the foyer is your chance to experiment with a fun color you've only dreamed about.  The rest of your house may still be boring, but your neighbors and the pizza delivery guy will never know it :)

Southern Living

This small wall inside the doorway could've been easily neglected.  Instead, they've treated it with a pretty mirror and a great pattern on the wall.  Another tip--When you have a small wall, it's a great opportunity to think big.  Instead of opting for something small or a grouping of several items, choose one large mirror (which helps to open up the space) or piece of art that fills the space and adds height visually.

Caitlin Creer Interiors via DecorPad

Don't have a grand foyer?  Make one by creating a moment on even the smallest of walls.  It doesn't necessarily have to be directly beside your front door.  An "entry" can be created in a walk-through spot and serve as a great drop-off spot for keys, mail, etc. 

Samantha Pynn

If you don't have alot of space horizontally, work your way up the wall, maximizing your vertical space.  This tall leaner mirror visually adds "another room" to this tiny area.

Have you done something fantastic in your small foyer? I would love to see it!

Welcome to my newest sponsor,  Fabricadabra!
(a beautiful, online textile shop--lots of pretty stuff to look at. . . )