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Ding. Dong. It’s a decorating tips delivery at your door. Your home doesn’t get a second chance to make a first impression on your guests. Is your front door and foyer fabulous or forgettable? Even more important, does it embrace and welcome you back in after a long day?

Let’s start on your front step, or if you’re from where I grew up, your stoop. Make the door a focal point by hanging a pretty floral wreath. The 24” Hydrangea Wreath by Valeria adorns my abode. Or, try a decorative brass or pewter doorknocker to add a touch of luxe. Just match the metal to your doorknob.

Large urns flanking each side of the door can be changed out to reflect the seasons with annual blooms or evergreens. The 12” Square Urns by Valerie are timeless and elegant.

Then, put out the welcome mat – literally. The Versailles Monogram Hand-woven Fiber Mat can trap the dirt before it gets tracked in.

Make sure your doorbell is in working order or you may miss friends who pop by to say hi. I’m replacing my dud with the Westinghouse Wireless Battery Door Chime.

Now let’s step inside. Some foyers are spacious and others, like my own, are quite intimate. Either way, this space calls for utility and style. Don’t settle for a pass through with no panache or one that lacks a place to stash keys.

The entranceway of your home should hint at what is to come. The wall color and style should coordinate with the schemes of adjacent rooms.

Next, all you need are a few well-placed pieces that perform double design duty.

Decorative mirrors look beautiful and offer a last minute checkpoint for lipstick and hair. Kenroy offers a style for everyone. I love the way the Bramble Wall Mirror invites the outdoors in.

Overhead lighting gets noticed in foyers. Make a visual statement with a chandelier or stained glass fixture.

Rainy days call for an umbrella stand. Find one loaded with character at an antique store or estate sale. If you don’t have a closet in your foyer, add a coat rack to your treasure hunt.

Depending on your foyer’s floor space, a bench, chair or stool offers a spot to slip shoes on and off. The Handy Living Sienna Paisley Hinged Storage Ottoman Bench is a smart option because it gives you a place to hide cold weather accessories and backpacks. The brand also offers a much smaller cube style.

The drawers in a small table or bureau can also offer hidden storage as well as a surface for decorative items such as a clock or a vase of fresh flowers from your garden. Note: Stacks of mail are never stylish. A detailed piece can serve as a focal point and add personal flair. I’ve been eyeing up QVC’s dramatic hand painted butterfly oval accent table with three drawers in black.

You’ll never lose your keys if you always drop them in a decorative bowl on top of your foyer table. Crystal candy dishes and pottery bowls are lovely choices.

It’s hip to be square, but don’t be afraid to go round with your rug. Wool in a darker color or pattern will stand up to wear and tear. Royal Palace Persian Style Panel 5-Foot Round would ground any foyer in grandeur. 

Now, your fabulous foyer is ready for grand entrances and exits.

Yours for a luxe life,

Susan Matthews