Hi, I’m Lindsay Hair, an interior designer in New York City, and founder of Linden Blue eDesign, your online decorating resource. Living and working in New York City has given me great experience in bring high style to small spaces, and the entryway of an apartment is a great place to start. Apartment entrances can sometimes be tricky spaces to decorate, simply because there’s a limited amount of space. However, with a few simple tips, even your small space can create a big first impression. First, pick out a great runner and size it so that you have a wood or tile border of about four to six inches all the way around. Runners are a great decorative element, because not only do they serve a functional purpose for getting the grime of the streets and snow off your shoes, aesthetically they are a great way to bring in a playful pattern. One of my favorites, a monochromatic white tiger pattern, is illustrated in this New York City Apartment. Also in this entry is my next recommendation: Great lighting. If you’re able to install a chandelier, pick something that offers a glimpse into your personality and provides the first introduction to the decorative style in the apartment. A great rule of thumb for the height of the chandelier is to have the bottom of the chandelier approximately seven feet from the floor. That way, even the tallest of your guests won’t feel as though the lighting fixture is on top of them. Alternatively, if a chandelier is not an option, a great pair of wall sconces will also do the trick. Whether you hardwire or plug them in, the average height to install a sconce is five feet six inches from the floor. Throw in a great mirror or a piece of art, and voila! You have instantly created a visibly pleasing vignette to greet your guests when they first walk in the door. Lastly, a great console in your entry is perfect not only for placing your keys and mail, but also for creating interesting details with accessories. Oversize prints, candles, and of course florals make great tabletop accessories. Add a bit more visual interest by layering the items and groupings. When you have three to four items working together, placing some slightly in front of others, the finished result presents a detailed and tailored effect, rather than a static single row that appears to have had little to no thought and organization. I’m Lindsay Hair and wish you good luck decorating, and hope these tips create a lasting first impression to your home.
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