The entrance area is the shortest room in the house and the most important. Every guest forms an opinion here in a few seconds, and every resident passes through it several times a day. Nevertheless, the entrance usually remains the area that is invested in last. Yet, three to four pieces are enough to transform a hallway into a grand opening.
The Basic Pair: Console and Mirror
The most reliable solution for any entrance wall is a console table with a large wall mirror above it. The console provides storage without narrowing the path, as it is slim. The mirror accomplishes three things simultaneously: the last look before leaving the house, more natural light, and optical depth in a usually windowless room. Hang it so that there are about 20 to 30 centimeters between the console top and the bottom edge of the mirror; this makes the group appear as a single unit.
Light That Doesn't Come From Above
A single ceiling light makes narrow hallways harsh and shadowy. Wall lights at even intervals or a pair to the left and right of the mirror, complemented by a table lamp on the console, work better. In houses with an open staircase or high ceilings, a chandelier is the strongest statement, as it immediately sets the scale and ambition. Warm light is more important here than abundant light.
Order That Looks Good
Everything that is put down daily needs a fixed place, otherwise it will end up on the console. A bowl for keys, a box for small items, a lantern for the evening. A bench or a stool makes putting on shoes comfortable and fills narrow niches purposefully.
Flooring and Greenery
A runner or a rug dampens the echo in the hallway and guides the eye into the living space. In windowless areas, artificial flowers and greenery are the low-maintenance alternative to real plants, in planters or vases that match the metallic accents of the room.
For Receptions and Lobbies in Commercial Settings
In commercial reception areas, the same principle applies on a larger scale: a representative wall, seating for waiting guests, and a large light fixture above head height. More on this can be found in our guides Luxury Hotel Furnishings and Office, Law Firm, and Practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How deep can a console in the hallway be?
Deep enough to allow a passage of at least 80 to 90 centimeters. In narrow hallways, particularly shallow consoles are the only way to provide any storage surface.
How high should a mirror be hung above the console?
Approximately 20 to 30 centimeters above the surface, and with a width that remains significantly smaller than the console. This way, the combination reads as one piece of furniture.
What to do if the entrance has no window?
Work with mirrors and wall lights instead of ceiling lights alone, choose light wall colors, and use greenery that does not require daylight.
Personal advice
We advise you personally and online. Send us your room dimensions or a photo at info@casa-luxury.de and we will put together a suitable selection for you.
Luxurious Entrance and Foyer Furnishings: Models from Our Collection
A selection of the areas covered on this page. Each image leads to the product page.
Further in the guide: Luxury Interior Design Overview · Luxurious Living Room Furnishings · Luxury Lighting · Eichholtz Benches