When I think about the entrance to a home, I see it as a moment of transition from the outside world into the calm of home, and a space that quietly sets expectations for the home beyond. For me, a curated entrance sets the tone for everything that follows, and an opportunity to establish atmosphere, balance and intention from the very first step inside.
I always begin by anchoring the space with a hall table or console. This is the foundation of the entrance, a piece that brings structure, elegance, and a sense of balance. One of my favourites is the Leighton Hall Table. Its beautifully grained oak and sculptural detailing lend a sense of permanence and craftsmanship that immediately grounds the space. It’s all about proportion: the piece should feel confident in the room, yet leave space to breathe. In narrower entryways, I often look for pieces that deliver presence without visual weight. A design such as the Fillmore Console Table, with its rounded half-moon shape, sits elegantly against the wall, offering a refined surface while remaining sleek and discreet, ideal for tighter hallway spaces where flow and movement are key.
Once the anchor is in place, I begin to layer objects thoughtfully. I’m drawn to Elemental boxes for organising everyday essentials such as keys, wallets, and little moments of everyday life. A single photo frame can introduce personality, and a sculptural object or a simple floral arrangement adds softness and texture. My philosophy is always the same: style with intention. Every object should have a purpose, and every surface should feel curated rather than crowded.
Entrance lighting plays an equally important role in defining mood. I love wall lights in an entrance because they offer a soft, ambient glow while allowing the architecture to shine. Pieces like Ruben or Larkin provide warmth and subtle character, framing the key elements in the space and creating a layered atmosphere that works from morning to evening. For hallways, I’m particularly mindful of depth and scale. The Highgate Wall Light is perfect in these settings, its shallow profile sits flush to the wall ensuring it never becomes an obstacle while still delivering a warm, elegant wash of light. Thoughtful lighting like this enhances the entrance without interrupting the natural flow through the space.
Mirrors in an entrance are indispensable, not just for function but for how they enhance a space. I usually place a mirror above the console to reflect light and expand the room, giving it a sense of depth. The clean lines of Vardo or the warmth of Heath complement the other finishes and ensure the entrance feels considered rather than transitional.
While entrances are often defined by hard finishes, introducing softness is essential to creating a sense of comfort. A hallway bench is one of my favourite elements to introduce. It’s not only a practical, subtly inviting pause but it also softens the linearity of a corridor. The Gibson Bench works especially well here because it balances structure with softness. The faux leather seat brings a clean, tailored finish that feels polished and practical, while the contrasting wool mix bolsters introduce texture - breaking up the formality you can sometimes get in long corridors.
Finally, I always like an entrance to feel connected to the rest of the home - not styled as a separate space, but as the first chapter of the interior story. One of my favourite ways to achieve this is with table lamps, particularly a pair. Paired lamps bring symmetry and rhythm to an entrance hallway, instantly making the space feel more settled and considered.
They’re also perfect when you’re hosting. That warm, shaded glow creates an immediate sense of welcome - softening hard finishes and ensuring the hallway feels inviting from the very first step inside.
For me, a curated entrance is never about excess. It’s about intention, anchoring the space, layering light, reflecting and enhancing natural elements, and styling with purpose. When done thoughtfully, it becomes more than a first impression; it becomes a refined introduction to the home, one that feels calm, considered, and unmistakably inviting.
