Entryway idea

I live in the Northwest where it rains a lot. Often people here take their shoes off do to our muddy feet. Have you ever searched for the perfect entryway rug like I have? I looked and looked once and did find one I'm still happy with. I have wood entryway floors, so it was more than just a pretty accessory, it was necessary.

A great idea is to use an indoor/outdoor rug. They are so much more stylish than the 'green golf tee' rug that was popular when I was growing up! A stylish indoor/outdoor rug is a great solution, because it is easy to clean. Most often, it can be hosed down with a mild soap and left out to dry relatively quickly.

I have had clients who have beautiful Persian rugs in their entry ways, and all I want to do is step around it! The fear of getting it dirty....

Check out www. ballarddesigns.com for some great indoor/outdoor rugs.

Come on in!

What is the first impression guests get of you home? Well, of course the outside gives a first impression, but it's the front door as well as the entryway. Once inside the door, the entryway is the first glimpse of your home a visitor will see. It gives them a little insight as to what the rest of your home is like. Does it say "welcome!" or "go away!" Hopefully, it says "welcome, come in, enjoy". One way to welcome visitors is to paint your front door a wonderful, warm red. Try Benjamin Moore 'Rosy Apple' or Columbia Paint 'empower' red.

Once inside, there are many things you can do with the small entryway to make it accommodating. A bench and a shelf with hooks is a great place to take off shoes and hang coats. Not enough room? How about a small round table, console or even wall shelf hung low to drop keys and mail. If there is room, you could add a small scale chair.

Sometimes entryways are big, and can be more of a mud room. Try a stack of lockers for an urban twist. Sometimes these can be acquired through a school system that might be renovating. Also check out www.potterbarnteen.com

So, come in, and welcome!